Lafayette Ridge Trail

This trail, when followed uphill from east to west, features a well-graded climb, then a flat section, and finally an unrelenting roller-coaster route to Briones Crest Trail.

The trail begins at Lafayette Ridge Staging Area along Pleasant Hill Road (free parking). Soon after you climb past the equestrian day camp site, you reach a saddle and a junction with Las Trampas to Briones Regional Trail, which continues straight ahead and slopes downward. This trail turns right and climbs the hill.

Follow trail signs to navigate past private residential properties on both sides. Soon the steep up-and-down hills begin, along with expansive views to the north, east, and south. Take your time and preserve your traction as you go along, passing the tops of Springhill Trail and Buckeye Ranch Trail, and finally gaining the top at the junction with Briones Crest Trail.