Arroyo Trail

If you're after a jogging route that truly tests your mettle while rewarding you with spectacular scenery, the Seaview and Big Springs Loop is an excellent choice. This difficult trail takes you through a diverse landscape of shaded eucalyptus groves and open hillsides, offering glimpses of the San Francisco skyline and Mount Diablo. The varied terrain, from fire roads to rocky single-track, keeps things interesting underfoot as you push through the climbs.

This 6.5-mile (10.5 km) loop, with its 993 feet (303 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 23 minutes, making it a solid workout. Parking is readily available and free within Tilden Regional Park, often near the Quarry Picnic Area, so access is easy. Remember to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as some sections are exposed to the sun.

The Seaview and Big Springs Loop is a fantastic example of the East Bay's natural beauty, connecting to wider networks like the East Bay Skyline National Recreational Trail. You'll traverse ecosystems ranging from dense pine forests to open meadows, providing a rich visual experience. It's also a dog-friendly trail, so your canine companion can join you for this challenging and rewarding run.