The best running trails around Rollingwood

The Albany Library Murals – Albany sign loop from El Cerrito offers a refreshing jogging experience that blends urban art with scenic Bay Area vistas. You'll follow the paved Ohlone Greenway, passing beneath the BART tracks and admiring vibrant murals from the Albany Murals Project, including the unique 'ALBANY' art sculpture. The route then transitions to more natural settings, providing rewarding panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, making it a great option for a visually stimulating run.

This moderate jogging route covers 4.7 miles (7.6 km) with a gentle 91 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 47 minutes to complete. The Albany Public Library, located near the Ohlone Greenway, provides convenient amenities like restrooms and water. Parking is generally available in nearby urban areas, and public transport via the El Cerrito Plaza BART station offers easy access to the starting point.

This trail is a fantastic way to explore the local art scene and enjoy some fresh air without a strenuous climb. The Ohlone Greenway is known for its accessibility and community gardens, while the extension towards Inspiration Point Overlook provides those sought-after Bay views. It's a popular jogging route in Albany and El Cerrito, perfect for a quick workout with a cultural and scenic twist.

The Point Richmond Tunnel – Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline loop offers a fantastic blend of urban history and natural beauty, perfect for a varied jog. You'll pass through the historic Point Richmond Tunnel, then emerge into the Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline, where flat, paved paths wind around a tranquil saltwater lagoon. For those seeking more challenge, trails ascend to Nicholl Knob, rewarding you with sweeping panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, including the Richmond Bridge and distant city skylines. Keep an eye out for diverse waterfowl like pelicans and egrets around the lagoon. This route is a moderate 5.2-mile (8.3 km) loop with 177 feet (54 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 53 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the park is open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, accommodating various schedules. Parking is available in Point Richmond near the tunnel entrance, and the mild Bay Area climate makes this an excellent year-round destination for jogging. There are no permits or fees required, ensuring easy access for everyone. It's a great option if you're looking for a relatively quick, accessible run with plenty of visual interest.

This trail stands out for its unique combination of features, from the historic railway tunnel to the diverse ecosystems of the shoreline park. The Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline itself is a 295-acre park that was once the western terminus of the Santa Fe Railway, with remnants of its past adding character to the landscape. It also incorporates a section of the San Francisco Bay Trail, providing a mixed-use path. The park's highest point, Nicholl Knob, offers some of the most expansive viewpoints in the region, making it a notable spot for photography and enjoying the vast Bay Area scenery.

The Ohlone Greenway loop from East Richmond Heights offers a unique blend of urban and natural elements, perfect for a quick jog. You'll navigate mostly flat, paved surfaces, passing through tree-lined paths, community gardens, and residential areas. The route runs parallel to the elevated BART tracks, providing a distinctive backdrop, and you'll spot public art installations and colorful murals along the way, adding visual interest to your 4.7-mile (7.6 km) journey.

This moderate jogging route, with just 104 feet (32 metres) of elevation gain, is suitable for most fitness levels and can be completed in about 47 minutes. Starting from East Richmond Heights, you'll find easy access to the greenway. Be prepared for frequent street crossings, which are a common feature of this multi-use path, and plan your visit for any time of year as the tree cover provides some shade.

The Ohlone Greenway is a significant connector, linking several East Bay communities and other regional trails like the Richmond Greenway and Bay Trail for those looking to extend their run. Following the historical route of the former Santa Fe railroad, it's more than just a path; it's a community hub with parks, playgrounds, and even outdoor gym equipment, making it a versatile option for local recreation.

The Ohlone Greenway loop from El Cerrito offers a refreshing urban jog, guiding you along a smoothly paved path that weaves through tree-lined sections and open green spaces. You'll find yourself running beneath the elevated BART tracks for much of the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) route, providing a distinctive urban canopy and a chance to spot community gardens and public art installations. With only 39 feet (12 metres) of elevation gain, it's an easy, flat experience perfect for a quick, consistent workout.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the greenway is easily accessible and well-maintained. Its location directly connects to BART stations like El Cerrito Plaza and El Cerrito Del Norte, making public transport a convenient option. Parking can be found in nearby urban areas, and the trail is enjoyable at any time, though early mornings or late afternoons often provide a more serene atmosphere.

This greenway is more than just a path; it's a vital car-free artery connecting several East Bay cities, built along the historical route of the former Santa Fe railroad. The El Cerrito section is particularly notable for its commitment to local ecology, featuring special frog habitats and wetland restoration areas that add a touch of nature to the urban landscape.