Sunol Regional Wilderness is one of the Bay Area's sweetest spots for finding spring wildflowers: Golden Poppies, Johnny-Jump-Ups, Milkmaids, and Sky Lupine color the park like sprinkles on cake. For an ambitious 5.5-mile hike that's filled with flowers and tremendous viewpoints over Sunol's lush valley, try the Cerro Este loop hike. Starting at Alameda Creek near the visitor center, wind 1.75 miles up the shaded Indian Joe Trail. Hang a right on the Cave Rocks Trail to gain more elevation and better views. Top-out at the Cerro Este overlook; at 1,700 feet, the wide-open views of Sunol's vast wilderness include Calaveras Reservoir and the rolling, sage green hills of the Diablo Range. Some of the best wildflower displays are saved for your descent; blossoms blanket the last part of the loop along the narrow Canyon View Trail, making it a feast for the eyes. TIP: The seventh annual Spring Wildflower Festival happens this Saturday, April 11; the family-friendly event includes live music, slideshows, crafts, and guided hikes.
WINE: Leave yourself enough time after the hike to swing by Livermore Valley's Tenuta Vineyards. Home to the first estate-grown Pinot in the Livermore area, Tenuta is a relaxing and playful walk on the wine side. (Their slogan is "Give us 30 minutes and we'll be friends for life.") Bring a picnic and grab a seat under an umbrella on their large patio and toast the day.
For directions and a map of Sunol Regional Wilderness, visit their website. It costs $5 to park. Dog-friendly! Tenuta Vineyards, 633 Kalthoff Common Rd., Livermore; 925-960-1006. There is a $5 tasting fee, which is waived with purchase. Directions from Sunol Regional Wilderness to Tenuta Vineyards.