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Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area
4.8 ★★★★★ 377 Google reviews · Running trail in Walnut Creek, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Scenic land along Pine Creek with a pool, volleyball courts, a softball field & a large picnic area.
What runners say about Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area
“I live 10 minutes away and barely knew this section of park existedThe parks service has adequate parking for plenty of cars, the trail is well maintained, and the views are great!”
“Although it's the dry season, the air smells great, the creek beds are still beautiful and the trees still give great shade.”
This is such a peaceful and wonderful hike, with nice views of the mountains, there are some water crossings and lots of cows. I really enjoyed it and am planning to go back for a picnic as there are many tables and benches throughout the hike.
Easily missed even by locals, this park is a hidden Gem of the east bay. I live 10 minutes away and barely knew this section of park existedThe parks service has adequate parking for plenty of cars, the trail is well maintained, and the views are great!
This was the most fun trail I've run yet! There were a ton of streams to run through, hills, beautiful views, a little mud, and a whole lot of fun!
Absolutely love this place. I live in Walnut Creek and this this a hidden jewel 💎 for hiking, horse riding and barbecue with family. Spacious, beautiful and convenient location, lots of free parking available and many hikes! Highly recommend to explore.
Trail conditions & character
“I live 10 minutes away and barely knew this section of park existedThe parks service has adequate parking for plenty of cars, the trail is well maintained, and the views are great!”
“Stage road trail was very nice, gentle rolling hills, but lots of stream crossings, so may not be stroller-able after heavy rains/in the winter.”
“Love that dogs are allowed on all trails here and even allowed off leash on the Stage Road trail.”
“I live 10 minutes away and barely knew this section of park existedThe parks service has adequate parking for plenty of cars, the trail is well maintained, and the views are great!”
“This is a terrific place to hike for anyone with with little or lots of experience it goes on for miles and miles with places to sit if you need to and also water fountains .”
“Stage road trail was very nice, gentle rolling hills, but lots of stream crossings, so may not be stroller-able after heavy rains/in the winter.”
Plan your run at Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteebparks.org
- Phone+1 510-544-3085
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 5 am–10 pm |
Running trails near Walnut Creek
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Castle Rock Trail Entrance
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