The Berkeley Fire Trails are an expansive group of trails that start nearby UC Berkeley and extend for miles into the Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve. These trails offer a great workout with beautiful views of the Bay Area. If you have a dog, they can join you on the trails! When I hike near UC Berkeley, I typically start at the fire trail above Clark Kerr but at the trailhead above Strawberry Canyon.
When you hike on the Berkeley Fire Trails, you’ll traverse a variety of landscapes, from rolling hills to thick forests. Since the trails are very steep, you can often see scenic city views. Bring water and snacks if you go because the temperature can quickly rise. The 7-mile loop at Centennial Drive and at the Lawrence Hall of Science will leave you sweaty and breathless after a solid hour.
The Berkeley Fire Trails are a hidden gem right by the campus of UC Berkeley. It’s common to see students hiking after class or on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Since Strawberry Canyon is at the base of the hike, you can end your hike with a cool swim if you’re tired. I love to go during golden hour on the weekends. It’s incredibly relaxing to escape your academic life for a few peaceful moments in the hills. Bring good hiking shoes, as you’ll slip down in sneakers! The steep, dirt pathways are tough to navigate on the way down.
The last time I hiked here, I witnessed a gorgeous view of the Bay Area during sunset. The entire landscape was bathed in gold, and the atmosphere was peaceful. If you have hiked the Berkeley Fire Trails, let me know about your experience in the comments below! Also, if you are visiting the Bay Area, you should consider checking out the Dipsea Trail from Muir Woods to Stinson Beach or the Lyon Street Steps in San Francisco.
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