10.22.09
From the issue Eastern Color
Peak Treat
Sunol Regional Wilderness is known for having some of the best fall colors in the East Bay, thanks to its big-leaf maples and impressive sycamores (find these along Alameda Creek and up the gently rising Canyon View Trail). But for those seeking the bigger Sunol picture, hiking to the peak of Flag Hill is the way to go. It's only 1.25 miles (one-way)—but it's all uphill. The reward for the sweat and switchbacks? Views from the bald peak spill out to a canvas of sprawling oak woodlands and grasslands, with the Alameda Creek watershed and Calaveras Reservoir in easy sight. Go now, before winter rains make the trail too muddy. And here's an added Halloween treat: Tarantulas sometimes crawl on the trail at this time of year…watch your step!
From the Sunol Visitor Center cross the bridge over Alameda Creek and follow the signs up to Flag Hill. Dog-friendly!
