round valley regional preserve

Good hiking, at various difficulty levels. Nice views of the surrounding hills. Very relaxing. As mentioned, you do have to keep an eye peeled for rattlesnakes. Last year, I saw the biggest rattlesnake I have ever seen, just off the main trail to Round Valley. It had at least 12 buttons. Also, in October, be careful you don't step on a tarantula! These big guys are relatively harmless, but the sight of one of these, as big as your hand, makes you jump! They are everywhere during this season. This is not a bad thing, and makes the hike that more interesting.

I love hiking here and every season brings a different look. The creek has dried out very early this year, so no opportunity to creek playing with kids, but it is still pretty up there. When it is greener, it is nice as there are usually lots of cows around every turn. Fun to check out the tracks on the trail to discern what wildlife has slithered, hopped or run down the trails. We have seen snakes, lots of squirrels, and the tracks of raccoons and other creatures. Lots of birds around as well as rabbits. Pleasant place to spend an hour, 2 or 3.

This is a beautiful place that offers hiking and recreation space for a fun weekend afternoon. The hiking is at best moderate in difficulty and there are some nice views of rolling hills or the valley. Nice place to bring the family and take some pictures. A very quick drive from Stockton. Picnic space and restrooms too. Not the place to come to train or get a challenging workout.

Nice local place to get out and hike! Not a lot of shade so beware in summer. Also in summer you have to look out for rattle snakes. I have seen several here and they are big. I love it in the spring and fall.

Round Valley offers several trails with varied diffiulty. It's a pretty area, some open, some in the trees. We have had to navigate around the grazing cows occasionally but they just ignored us.

Round Valley Regional preserve is a hidden gem. Cross over a bridge with a creek filled with water after the rains, and dry in the fall, filled with boxing turtles and wildlife. After crossing the bridge head left to meander along the creek, or go straight crossing the cattleguard gate and enter a preserve filled with trails that either head up the mountain or follow the valley all the way to Los Vaqueros watershed. Cows roam through the preserve, and you might see coyotes, ground squirrels, tarantulas in the fall, craggy rocks, ponds up in the hills, etc. When you ascend to the top of the Hardy Canyon trail in one direction you can see stunning views of Mount Diablo, and then turn around and see all the way east to the snow-capped Sierras. During hot days make sure to bring plenty of water. The flat Miwok trail is good for even inexperienced hikers. The Hardy Canyon Trail can be strenuous, straight up hill with multiple switchbacks and a few steep ascents. Leave about 2 hours to do the Miwok to Hardy Canyon loop back to the carpark.