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Fernandez Ranch
4.7 ★★★★★ 86 Google reviews · Running trail in Martinez, California · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Fernandez Ranch'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.
Stunning valley views, shaded hiking trails and a variety of wildlife, including cows and horses.
What runners say about Fernandez Ranch
“Bring water, a snack and sunscreen for some great views and plenty of space for off-leash fun for your dog.”
“There are quiet a few cows since it is ranch land, and a lot of cow patties which made the trail a little rigged and messy.”
I love this trail, and I've never seen it busy - it's beautiful and has panoramic views of the rolling hills (especially nice during the rainy season where they are lush and green). You can pick and choose your route to extend or shorten the hike, making it as challenging as you like.
Easy access off Highway 4 east. Plenty of parking and no entrance fees. Many options for a great hike on well kept trails that lead to some spectacular views at the higher elevations. The trails go up the hills and through areas of oak forest.
This is a great place to bring your dog in early spring or early morning for a great hike up the ridges that Whipsnake Trail provides. Bring water, a snack and sunscreen for some great views and plenty of space for off-leash fun for your dog.
Fernandez Ranch is a nice place to mountain bike or hike. I went a few days after some rain so was a little muddy, but not to bad. There are quiet a few cows since it is ranch land, and a lot of cow patties which made the trail a little rigged and messy.
Trail conditions & character
“We enjoyed the off leash dog trail, and all the different variety of birds flying around with the view of the cows up on the green lush mountains.”
“We will bring our hiking polls to finish the Windmill trail another time because it gets quite steep and we need the extra help.”
“We enjoyed the off leash dog trail, and all the different variety of birds flying around with the view of the cows up on the green lush mountains.”
“There are quiet a few cows since it is ranch land, and a lot of cow patties which made the trail a little rigged and messy.”
“Plenty parking but notice posted about theft and catalytic converter theft”
“My only complaint is that IF it has rained recently, it can be a bit muddy.”
Plan your run at Fernandez Ranch
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- 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 — 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.
- Websitejmlt.org
- Phone+1 925-228-5460
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–9 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–9 pm |
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