Wildcat Creek, Nimitz, and Conlon Loop

The full loop is about 17.3 kilometers (11.1 miles) and generally takes around 4 hours and 46 minutes to complete. This duration can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

This loop is considered a moderate hike. While sections like Nimitz Way are relatively flat, the full loop includes varied terrain and an elevation gain of about 293 meters (960 feet), which might be challenging for absolute beginners. There are also variations, such as a 7.1-mile loop that includes Wildcat Peak, which can alter the difficulty.

The terrain is quite varied. Nimitz Way is mostly paved or graveled with gentle hills. The Wildcat Creek Trail starts paved and transitions to packed dirt, offering a gentle, rolling experience. The Conlon Trail begins as a wide gravel road with a short, steep climb to a viewpoint, then can become more like a singletrack, potentially uneven due to cattle grazing, especially after wet weather.

You'll find many stunning views! Highlights include View of San Pablo Reservoir from Inspiration Point, Inspiration Point, Tilden Regional Park, and Tilden Nature Area Bench with Bay views. From Nimitz Way, you get panoramic views of the Bay Area, San Pablo Reservoir, and Mount Diablo. The Conlon Trail also offers great views of the San Francisco Bay, and summiting Wildcat Peak provides some of the best panoramic views in the Berkeley Hills, including the View of San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge from Wildcat Peak.

A common starting point is near Inspiration Point, Tilden Regional Park, which offers parking. You can also access the trail from the Nimitz Way Trailhead — junction of Curran and Inspiration Trails.

Yes, this is a popular multi-use trail system that welcomes dog walkers. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring (for wildflowers) and fall (for cooler temperatures and clear views) are particularly pleasant. Summers can be warm and exposed in sections, while winters might bring muddy conditions, especially on the Conlon Trail, which can be uneven after wet weather.

No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within Wildcat Canyon Regional Park or Tilden Regional Park for day hiking. However, always check the official East Bay Regional Park District website for any updated regulations or specific activity permits.

You might spot various birds and small mammals. You'll also walk through diverse landscapes, including eucalyptus groves, open meadows, and along the picturesque Wildcat Creek. Be aware that you may encounter cows grazing in certain sections, particularly on the Conlon Trail and Nimitz Way.

Yes, the route intersects with several other notable trails. It includes significant sections of the East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail and the Bay Area Ridge Trail - 02 - East Bay. You'll also find portions that overlap with the Mokelumne Coast to Crest Trail and the ADT - California - T - Seg 8.

For expansive panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Reservoir, and Mount Diablo, prioritize the Nimitz Way section. If you're looking for the absolute best panoramic views in the Berkeley Hills, consider the variation that includes summiting Wildcat Peak. The Conlon Trail also offers 'sweet views' of the San Francisco Bay as it connects the higher ridges to the Wildcat Creek drainage.