First let me say that this trail is far from uniform from one part to another. The northern portion near Concord COULD be scenic if all the encampments and trash was cleared out. This portion, miles 0-4, was recently repaved However there are no restrooms along this section. Miles 4-8 can be very congested with people walking dogs and pushing strollers. Even sections with "pedestrian only access" are largely unused and the multi purpose trail has most of the traffic. Miles 8-14 are not very scenic. Mostly backyards. Lots of cross streets making cycling less enjoyable. Miles 14-20 are more backyards and several more cross streets. There are a few narrow bridges over small creeks. Miles 20-24 are fairly industrial. The trail is much cleaner and better patrolled from Walnut Creek south. North is a totally different story. One park employee told me he thought I was brave to ride on that section of the trail. Not a place for families for sure. read more

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I absolutely adore the Iron Horse Trail. Been walking and running this trail for many years now, and it's still just as beautiful as the first time that I stepped upon it. The entire trail measures roughly 32 miles one way and stretches from Concord all the way to Pleasanton. I've only been on the Concord/Pleasant Hill/Walnut Creek side, but my dream has always been to traverse the entire trail in increments over time. The trail is a flat paved path that will take you through a plethora of parks, connecting trails, under freeway overpasses, and through a few tunnels. There is always greenery on the trail, no matter what season it is. It's not particularly challenging and there aren't any inclines, but it's perfect for a casual stroll or a long distance run. At any given time, you'll witness people walking their dogs and pushing strollers. Many people train for marathons and long distance running here. It's a wonderful family friendly and community driven trail that feels very safe. What I enjoy most about traversing this trail are the stunning views that I'm graced with every single time that I'm here. This trail has truly exposed me to the beauty of Contra Cost County. So many gorgeous wild flowers and lush vegetation. An ample amount of rampant wildlife. The most beautiful and peaceful community parks. Entrancing Views of the nearby communities. You will get to experience all of this along the Iron Horse Trail. People are so friendly on this trail. You tell get a sense of community here. There are also many bikers that use this trail too. There are several rest benches and doggie pooh pickup stations. You always see a trash can nearby to encourage cleanliness. There are mile markers on the main trail, and a second path that also runs parallel to the main path for most of the duration. It's a great place to clear your mind and to breathe in the fresh local air. Walking down this trail has gotten me through some tough times in the past, and it's filled with so many memories. So grateful to have this local gem practically in my backyard. read more

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On CNN, I was reading the story of a young father who walked eleven miles every day for seven months to get to his UPS job until a kindly coworker took up a collection to surprise him with a car. That story made me realize he found a higher purpose and motivation to walk great distances. Me? I'm just trying to break 10,000 steps on my FitBit so I'm not mistaken for a sloth. That's why I found an excuse with the Iron Horse Trail, a suburban walkway stretching across two counties for forty miles between Pleasanton and Concord. I haven't had the temerity or frankly the interest to walk the entire trail. However, I have frequently taken advantage of the two-mile stretch between the Pleasant Hill BART station and Ygnacio Valley Road where I pick up the BART train at Walnut Creek to go home. Except for the slightly elevated footbridge over Treat Blvd., it's pretty flat and paved even if some stretches could use some pot hole repair. The foliage and flowers make for pleasant diversions along the way, the aggressive joggers and cyclists not so much, especially if they come up behind you without warning. Regardless, it gives me a bucolic setting that allows me time to meditate after a schedule-challenged day. read more

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I don't know how you can give a trail or outside space less than 4 stars. This trail goes from Walnut Creek to Pleasanton. There are some stretches with shade and sun. It is a mainly flat trail. There are a lot of cyclists, dog walkers, runners and walkers so it does get crowded. Overall, it's a good trail to get out on and enjoy the outdoors. read more

If it weren't for outdoor spaces, I'm not sure where I would have gone during the pandemic lock down! I've never seen this trail so packed as it was in these past few years! It's been great to start to see the same people and greet one another with a nod, smile, or a hello. What a nice way to connect while social distancing : ) This trail goes on and on, if you look at the regional map: www.traillink.com/trail/iron-horse-regional-trail During the summertime, there are more or less shaded areas, depending on where you go on the trail. You can find the die-hard runners, bikers, and walkers out during the hottest temperatures! During the wintertime, it's refreshing to be in the crisp air, and you'll find A LOT of people exercising as their New Year's Resolutions ; - ) In the fall, the winds can pick up and bring up the dirt on the trails. In the springtime, it's perfect weather, which seems to bring out the most people on weekends. Watch for bunches of people in the middle of the trail or strollers with dogs if you go mid-day. Recently, there have been signs posted alerting people to call out when passing and that there is a maximum of 15 MPH on the trail. This may be due to all of the new trail users who are unfamiliar with which side to walk on or it may be due to the electric bike and scooter riders on the trail. The dogs seem to really like the trail and there are complimentary poop bags that can be found in dispensers along the way to keep the trail clean. The added automatic signal lights are a plus to alert vehicles to oncoming pedestrians and bicyclists. *Note: You can find parking at some of the trail head locations. read more

The Lafayette-Moraga trail may be the best rail-trail conversion in the Bay Area, except possibly the Old Railroad Grade on Mt. Tam. But the Iron Horse Trail is the most varied, and is probably the longest. I've been on most of the trail by now. I even went on parts that hadn't been built yet: between Hookston and Jones in Pleasant Hill (dodging the bike between equipment at the lumberyard), between Mt. Diablo and Newell in Walnut Creek (between the buildings and the canal). And it's similar to what I wrote about Marin County's Dipsea Trail: an overview of all that you can find in Contra Costa County. And what can you find? Wide open space at Walnut Creek (the creek, not the city) in northern Concord. Seemingly unending suburbia in Pleasant Hill. Affluent shopping in Walnut Creek, along with two graceful bridges across major thoroughfares. McMansions in Alamo. The most beautiful segment is shaded with hundred-year-old oaks in Danville. The pavement is replaced with sidewalk as it goes through the Bishop Ranch business park in San Ramon. I haven't been on the trail south of this part, but it appears to be the same treeless expanse going into Pleasanton. This was once a railroad line, so it's mostly flat. The old railroad bridge is still in use just south of Monument Blvd. in Concord. So to build your cardio, you go fast. If you have no cardio, there are no steep hills to conquer, so you can handle it. It's all wheelchair accessible. As with all trails in this area, you need to be careful crossing the streets because some drivers don't think to look for joggers and bikers using this trail. The easement is wide in many places, so you and your dog can go "off road" if you want (I like the whoop-de-do near the railroad bridge at Monument). One other thing I'll throw in: The actual rail line is mostly developed on in Concord, so the Iron Horse Trail takes a different route. However, the rail-trail on the actual grade is maintained by the City of Concord (was actually unmaintained for decades), and was paved in the late 2000s. It starts at Monument and ends where Market Street turns sharply and becomes Meadow Street. It goes through the back yards of Concord's ghetto, but it's shady and still enjoyable. The Iron Horse Trail is pretty good, with some stretches of greatness. Conveniently goes through the downtowns of Walnut Creek, Alamo, and Danville. If you live and work within a mile of it, it's very possible to use this trail to ride your bike to work every day without dodging cars all the time. It's heavily used by lunchtime walkers in San Ramon, and kids sell lemonade on the trail during the summer. Lots of fun! read more

An excellent everyday trail! From Concord down to Alamo, you might just catch me running long distance or walking my dog. Some scenic parts, some trashy parts, regardless it sure serves it's purpose in our everyday active lives. I'm also lucky enough that I can cut over and cruise the Contra Costa Canal Trail to get to Heather Farms. From where I run, there's a few fancy bridges to cross as well, like the Robert I Schroder Bridge. This trail makes many connections to a several parks. I know bike riders just love cruising down it. People love strolling their kids along, or even run with their strollers. There are plenty of trees along the trail, and some streaks with no trees. Overall this isn't the greatest trail in the bay, as it does get broken up by major streets, but serviceable for long stretches. Hikers hike it, but again, I wouldn't call it the most challenging either. I dig it, I run it, I love it! read more

Iron Horse Trail - Paved trail on the left, dirt trail on the right. - Hiking Near Me

Normally I go running at Runyon Canyon in the Hollywood hills, but since I'm visiting family here in Northern California I decided to go for a run and this place was ok read more

Iron Horse Trail - Start of trail - Hiking Near Me

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So lucky (and spoiled) to have this in walking distance to my house. I frequent the portion of this paved trail between downtown Walnut Creek and Pleasant Hill Bart. This review is simply for that stretch which i know well.Flat and smooth, it's perfect for long runs. To change scenery or take a longer path, it connects to the Contra Costa Canal Trail which can take you to Heather Farms Park. Lots of birds and squirrels en route and in daylight hours it's always got lots of folks out doing their thing. Love tto take this trail when I walk in to town or as part of my running loop. Share the path everyone (bikers that means you also-Ive encountered some rude folks now and again practically running pedestrians off the trail) All in all, a gem in Walnut Creek. #7/100 The Yelp 100 Challenge:) read more

It's great to live in a community that has access to wonderful trails through several of San Francisco's East Bay cities. It is the "perks" like the Iron Horse Regional Trail that are such a huge part of why I love living in this part of California, and while I'll probably remain here until my last day on the Third Rock from the Sun. Cities in the East Bay that The trail passes through (listed from South to North) include: - Pleasanton - Dublin - San Ramon - Danville - Alamo - Walnut Creek - Pleasant Hill & - Concord The Iron Horse Regional Trail is primarily used as a pedestrian walking, running and bicycle trail, but you'll also find dog walkers, stroller-pushers, as well as an occasional roller-blader, roller skater, skateboarder, or Razor rider. For me, the Iron Horse Trail is an easily accessible spot for a run every few days. The Iron Horse Trail passes through the cities listed above in central Alameda and Contra Costa counties. I don't know exactly how long the entire trail is, but I would imagine it is somewhere around 20-30 miles. The trail mostly tracks along the old Southern Pacific Railroad "right of way" that was originally constructed way back in 1891, which was later abandoned by the RR in 1977. Alameda & Contra Costa counties purchased the rights to this pathway at the time of abandonment by the RR . . . giving it the appropriate namesake as the "Iron Horse" trail when it was originally opened to pedestrians in 1986. The trail runs right next to both the Pleasant Hill BART station, as well as the Dublin/Pleasanton BART station. There have recently been a couple of very cool & modern footbridges built that allow the trail to run over the top of both Treat Blvd., and Ygnacio Valley Road. (See my night photo of the footbridge over Treat Blvd., near the Pleasant Hill BART station). read more

The Iron Horse Regional Trail is a pedestrian and bicycle trail that passes over 40 miles through various Alameda and Contra Costa County cities ranging from Concord to Pleasanton. The trail also directly connects to both the Dublin/Pleasanton and Pleasant Hill BART stations, and there there are long-term plans to do the same with Walnut Creek BART. An Iron Horse is a Railroad Horse (of course of course), and it mostly follows the an old Southern Pacific right of way that was established in 1891 and abandoned in 1977. The 2 Counties purchased the right of way at that time, intending to use it as a transportation corridor. The Iron Horse Trail was first established in 1986. I've only sampled a little bit of the Iron Horse Trail, mostly around Downtown Walnut Creek or using it to safely cross over YVR and Treat Blvd. Gayle and I plan to do a little more as we tune up our bikes and hiking shoes, and better take advantage of this wonderful outdoor opportunity. read more

Four stars because as a cyclist, there are LOTS of intersections, which means I have to downshift and beware when crossing. I'm not trying to end up on someones car hood or pulling a superman. Ususlly traveling southbound there's a tailwind. Past Danville there are some decent stretches between intersections. It's nice to be able to throw on some ear-buds with pandora and not have to worry about riding in the road. Nice scenery for a 20+ mile ride! :) read more

Took in the Iron horse Trail round-trip from the Pleasant Hill BART to the end of the line just south of the Dublin BART. That's a 42.6-mile round trip. It's flat and has some very nice scenery. The trail is flat and, heading south, there are really nice tailwinds to make the trip quicker than uncontrolled trip down a slip-and-slide. It's not perfect, though. Heading north, the headwinds are vicious -- the worst headwinds I've ever ridden against. I was giving it everything I had through Dublin and San Ramon and could not crack 8 MPH. My normal, easy speed is 13.5 MPH. I track these things. I'm a nerd. There is almost no tree cover except in Danville. I got the worst sunburn I've ever had on my arms and legs on my trip. Literally, my arms blistered. BLISTERED! Like bubble wrap, only nasty instead of fun. Wear STRONG sunblock. I use SPF 65 (I didn't use it when I rode the trail...) and I strongly suggest using at least SPF 45 and reapplying it a few times. There's no water south of Danville or north of Alamo. The water available is warm and tastes heavily of metal, but it's free and there and on a hot day will be welcome. I went through eight liter bottles of water on my trip (seven on the trip back) and the drinking fountain water was very nice to have. The Walnut Creek section of the trail is the hardest to ride. It goes through Downtown, which is nice, but the trail is poorly maintained and rough (by paved trail standards.) For me, growing up on gravel trails made this a fairly easy ride and the large bumps were fun, like mini roller coasters without the burden of harnesses. The trail has a lot of great qualities, though, especially through Danville. The Danville section passes through downtown and on the Saturday I went there was a farmer's market going on next to the trail. There are also a lot of great restaurants near the trail. For me, an ideal Saturday morning could be riding to Danville, trying a new restaurant, and riding home. The same can be said of the Walnut Creek segment which passes many more dining opportunities than the Danville length. However, Danville has a more scenic segment of trail. The San Ramon length is all business. It goes through some business park and then a golf course. It's not scenic, but it has signs that show you where you are. Nice touch, San Ramon. I dig it. My big advice on this trail is that just because it's a trail does not mean it's a cakewalk bike ride. Take it seriously on hot or sunny days because this is not a forgiving trail despite being flat and straight. read more

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A never ending go to place for a run, walk, or bike ride if you want some level ground! I've loved this trail ever since moving to Walnut Creek. It literally goes on and on to several cities so you could get some distance. There's some areas that I don't feel very comfortable when I'm alone but that's not most of it. It's rare to be alone too, as there are lots of people on the trail, especially around 6 pm, but you'll pass the occasional person in the mornings too. read more

Love this trail. When thinking about why I pay so much to live in the Bay Area I factor in the trail system here in Walnut Creek. I'd consider myself a novice bike rider and it's been a great way for me to get my pedals dirty. Never too crowded, overall a solid concrete path for me to burn some calories and earn my tacos. read more

Iron horse trail is a an ideal place for bikers on a hot hot hot day in the summer! The whole trail is roughly 20 miles or so one way and I believe it starts from Concord all the way to San Ramon or Dublin which I forgot. We started out in Walnut Creek for the first time. I believe that was at 5 miles marker. We went toward Danville side but of course didn't get there. Only biked for 6 miles or so. It was when we reached all the estates, then we headed back. The trail is meant for bikers and walkers so I felt very safe riding there. Did not need to wear helmets till we got to this one city and had to bike along the street. That's where we stopped and headed back. It would be nice if the whole trail was like the first 5-6 miles we did. When we headed back, we also went extra 3 miles to the opposite side. That side was okay. There was less bikers and not much to see on that side. For some reason, I didn't feel so safe? We ended the bike ride at Buffalo Wild Wings to get some chicken sauce and headed back to the 5 miles marker in Walnut Creek. Maybe we have missed it but I did not see a parking lot for this trail in Walnut Creek. We just put in google maps and it took us to a residential area and parked on the street. read more

The Iron Trail through Walnut Creek can be noisy due to traffic closer to the downtown. The trail itself gets much more pleasant closer to Alamo off Rudgear. Parking around the trail can also be difficult but as noted park closer to the Alamo side of the trail and it makes a much more pleasant walk. read more

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Love this walking, running, biking trail! It's pretty flat so not too strenuous. There are mile markers to help track how far you've gone. Trail maps are available at the entrance by the pleasant hill Bart stop. Early morning runs are my favorite! There's always other people on the trail, but it's never too crowded. It connects to several other parks, which are nice to picnic in (like walden park). Always super green and pretty in the spring, especially since we got rain! read more

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Compared to what we have in Las Vegas, this trail rocks! Y'all are spoiled. The trail goes on forever and has painted mile markers every 0.5 miles. It's great not having to guess how far I've run, carry a GPS, or map out my run on the computer beforehand. Great for training for long distance runs. Tons of oak trees means lots of shade. The trail will take you by nearby parks, Whole Foods, Starbucks, etc. so if you run out of water or need a quick pitstop, no problem. It does get a little narrow in spots which can be pretty scary with all the bikes and other users. Also, there are a few spots where water has damaged the asphalt, making it extremely bumpy. Minor defects. I really do love this trail and will run it everytime I visit the Walnut Creek area. read more

This trail is pretty long and one day I'll travel the full length. Whether you're a walker, runner, or cyclist, there is a stretch on the trail for you. Some areas get real intense sun beating down on you, but if you're on the trail to train, let it burn those calories right off you. So far I haven't come across really tough slopes, overall pretty flat with slight inclines spread sporadically. Since most of this trail runs through city limits, you'll get a mix of people on the pavement. You're never really alone unless you're on at an odd hour. I have yet to run this trail at night, so for the brave few of you, let me know what parts are well lit. read more

Iron Horse Trail - Hiking Near Me

I've ridden this many times so far close to 50 times in the past year, it's nice. I realize there are a some portions of the trail that are pretty rough/uneven but a great ride to say the least. I wish pedestrians would stop occupying complete lane in both directions and be a little courteous to everyone. Some are just playing tunes too loud to listen to your call-outs, it just seems you have to scream in their ear to get some attention (especially in the Danville portion). Despite these annoyances ride on this trail can be & is an excellent, worry free, flat & long trail in East Bay stretching from Concord to Pleasanton...making a round trip nearly 50miles....(give or take)... I recently have been riding my road bike and this trail will wear you out with its uneven/cracked path, didn't use to feel that on my MTB though. If you have wish to ride your skinny tire bike I say good luck... read more

Amazing biking, hiking, walk your dog, running path. Easily walkable from Concord (Market st area-ish) to Dublin area. Not well lit during early morning/at night in most areas, but people tend to wear head lights or have lights on bicycles. read more

I jog 3-5 weekly on this ironhorse trail for 16 years!!! Never a problem. Of course with everything we do in life you must use your common sense. I like to carry my spray mace with me. Other than that I would say the Iron Horse Trail is relatively very safe. read more

I've ran, biked and walked this trail. I used to bike from San Ramon to Walnut Creek and back for a good cardio work out and always ended up sore! The good sore of course... For anyone in the East Bay Area, this is a staple and go to spot to meet your outdoor exercise needs. The trail is always full of quite the selection of people. Anywhere from stay at home moms taking their kids out on a stroll, to avid bikers whose quads and calves make you question your life...and everyone in between. The trail is heavily populated after standard working hours but during the day time on week days, it's pretty empty and ideal for anyone who doesn't want to ring their bell to get people out of the way or just prefer solitude during a run or walk. There's a lot of houses lined among the trail and a few cool places to check out for a post work out meal such as high tech burrito in Danville or Pete's or anywhere in the downtown WC area as the trail dumps you near Macy's there. There's tons of cross streets in shopping areas for anyone on the trail to check out and take a break at. Super convenient! The trail is always clean and safe overall. My biggest tip is to work out before evening hours because the pathway isn't very well lit after sunset. Love the iron horse trail! read more

Iron Horse Trail - One of the cooler houses you pass on the trail going towards Concord from Walnut Creek - Hiking Near Me

Cool trail to get some fresh air, get outside and moving. Lots of people on bikes and they fly by so if you have little ones use caution. But this is a better alternative than using the sidewalks on the street. However, my family and I have been using this trail for about 4 months now and have noticed an increase in transients hanging out on the trail. My wife and daughter were actually approached by a transient coming out of the bushes around 10am. He followed them for about 5mins then he asked "do you walk here everyday?" My wife told him "leave us alone" he laughed and kept following them, then asking my wife "where are you going, is it just you two". My wife called the Walnut Creek PD and she was told that "he hasn't made any threats or physically done anything so there's nothing we can do ma'am just keep walking" When actually Walnut Creek PD should of respond to the call and made contact with this individual. So finally after about 15mins of this guy following my wife, she stopped a guy in a bike and asked him to walk with her and my daughter until they were able to get away from him. When the bicyclists asked the transient what he wanted he said "nothing" and turned around and disappeared in the other direction. Clearly had WCPD responded this man could of been ID and told not to be harassing hikers or he'd be arrested. This just happened about 2 weeks ago so to the ladies walking alone carry pepper spray, taser, knife anything to protect your life and the life of your loved ones. To WCPD action is better than reaction. Why wait until someone goes missing, raped or murdered until you respond to a call. A simple welfare check on RP or a sweep of the trail could of made a difference. Protect the community! read more

I really enjoy doing my walks/jogs on the Iron Horse trail whenever I get the chance. I usually meet up with my friend who lives close by.We usually meet at the Starbucks off crow canyon in Alamo(which to mention is an extremely friendly Starbucks)!! The trail, I believe is 33 miles long, starts at concord , runs all the way through Pleasanton and will later be expanded through Alameda.Bicycle and (horse friendly through certain parts).It s a nice paved trail that's a straight shot (perfect if you don't want to get your shoes dirty and want to avoid any hills) you can put in a good sweat poring jog, or a relaxing stroll with a friend. I like starting at this location its pleasant, safe and the and the views of all the trees are really nice. They also have little benches and drinking fountains placed throughout the trails,also little shops and places are always close by. You can go as far as your little feet desires...or fitness level...lol. read more

I appreciate living near the Iron Horse Trail, so I can get my run/walk on without competing with cars. I generally spend time on the Concord end, which is quite flat, although I have also hopped on in Walnut Creek, while having my car worked on at Diablo Auto Specialists (near Target). The Walnut Creek portion does make me envious of the trees/shade in that area of the trail. Not much of that on our end, so I lather on the sunscreen and steer clear when its super hot out. read more

My husband and I love to walk here on the trail during sunset. There is greenery all along the trail which also runs right along the downtown. There are so many entries/exits into the trail from downtown, one of them right outside our apartment. There are boards all along describing the local habitat. There is an entrance close to the walnut creek library and civic park. There is also creek view near N Broadway. A lovely trail for regular bikers and joggers. read more

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Great trail to go on a leisurely stroll on foot or a bike. Although, it doesn't have to be leisurely. In fact, I rode my bike at a steady pace for most of the way and was only interrupted when I reached the road crossings, which were frequent now that I think about it. Those crossings can also throw you off the trail, so be attentive. Other tips: - Take plenty of water; it's hot out there in the summer months. - Carry your ID and some form of currency. If your tire blows out, you're gonna need to find a way to your car. This actually happened to me. - Carry your phone. - Wear sunscreen :) read more

Excellent bike trail. Boyfriend and I biked it a few days ago. Got off the Bart at Dublin. The first time we did this we had a bit of difficulty finding where the trail started. We learn from that experience and this time took an immediate left out of the BART station and ran right into the trail. It was a gorgeous day, and we did have to do minor dodging of people walking dogs extremely long leashes, stretching across the entire trail. Can anyone say safety hazard? But overall this is a great place to bike. Cars are very courteous at the road crossings, and it's a pretty safe place to go for a bike ride. read more

LOVE this trail! It's so long (32 miles?) and runs right along main streets which is nice in case you need a water/restroom break. It's fully paved, there's plenty of trees to keep it shady and we love the ground markers every quarter mile. read more

Just a quick note and I'll finish this review later at home. One of the best cycling, running or walking trails in the bay area. read more

Iron Horse Trail - Whole foods in Walnut Creek has a awesome bicycle repair station. - Hiking Near Me

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I love all the Bay Area regional trails. This trail is paved and I'm sure there are portions that are fire dirt/gravel trails but I was only on paved pathways when I was through there yesterday. En route you will see walkers, runners, strollers, bikes, dogs and folks out enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings. I think I was on the Iron Horse for at least 3 miles or so. I'm sure the trail has many miles to offer. The part of the trail I experienced had a nice tree shade covering. Don't ride the painted pony...instead get out and walk the Iron Horse! read more

Love this trail. I like to bike from Walnut Creek to Danville and then stop for an iced coffee at Peets in Danville. It's very flat and a wonderful place to bike or walk. read more

This trail is easily accessible and flat, mostly paved and quite pretty. An escape away from the traffic and is great for short and easy walks. But, bike traffic (love bikers btw) causes a variance of speed that sometimes can be dangerous. There are also many people that use this trail so social distancing can be a real issue. read more

The Iron Horse Trail is located just footsteps away from my humble abode. It's the perfect place to go for a run, walk or bike. It's an extensive 30+ mile stretch that extends between Concord to Pleasanton with tons of scenery along the way. The majority of the trail is well paved although you'll have a few patches here and there where you may have to cross a street or a bridge. Generally, it's well marked and easy to follow the signs from town to town. read more

Having become fed up with the stuffy gym in my apartment complex (no air-conditioning !!!!), I set out to find a place to run in Walnut Creek, where I could enjoy nature at the same time. I came across the Iron Horse Trail, which runs across Walnut Creek, mostly unobstructed by city streets ( so you don't have to worry about stopping at pesky traffic lights). The trail is bordered by blossoming cherry trees and the recent rain has turned the grass a bright green, making the it a perfect place to enjoy the early spring weather. Look out for jogging, spandex-clad cougar types and groups of Russian babushkas taking an afternoon stroll. Minus one star because the scorching Walnut Creek spring/summer will soon make it impossible to enjoy the trail during most of the day (it doesn't have a lot of shade). read more

Living in Oakland, I envy these kind of places where people can walk/ride for miles and miles along tree-lined paths. Anyone looking to learn how to ride a bike will find this place safe and mostly stress-free. I say mostly because serious bikers also use it and one biker was particularly nasty to a friend who was going slow. All in all, though, they it's a lovely place to go. I particularly like that it's close to BART. You can walk there from Pleasant Hill or Walnut Creek stations. Also, if you want to mix things up, you can cross onto the Canal Trail and bike up to the Concord station. read more

I ran part (north to south Walnut Creek) of this trail last weekend. There's not much to see on this part of the trail and there's not much shade either. The good things are that it's fairly flat and it passes by a Safeway and Whole Foods. So, if you're dying from the heat, and short on water you can always refill at either location. Overall, I would recommend running this course, but only in the early morning or late afternoons when it's cooler. read more

It runs right past my office, so for 2009 I resolved to try to get out to walk at least a portion of it every workday. On weekends, "for a treat", my daughter and I walk down it to the PH Bart station. At this time of year, yes, it may be somewhat overgrown, but it looks lovely, and smells wonderful with all the wildflowers (read: weeds) blooming. Allergy sufferers: use at your own risk. read more