Chalda Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Historical Significance · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

There are no amenities at the trailhead. Be careful about grazing cattle. Never approach them or try to touch them. Give them a wide berth. Street parking can be found on Chalda Way. Exercise caution while crossing the street to reach the trailhead.

Access this trail by passing through the gate at the intersection of Rheem Blvd and Chalda Way. Make sure to close the gate behind you as cattle are allowed to graze within the Painted Rock Open Space. Pass an information sign and follow the trail straight (northeast).

You immediately begin climbing. The trail is a graded fire road in good condition. It is easily passable, except for immediately after rain in the winter, when it can become slippery. The trail continues at a moderate incline for 0.3 miles, gaining about 200 ft. The trail terminates at a junction with the Moraga trail and the Checker Bloom trail. A left on to the Moraga trail (west) provides access to spur trails that lead to the Painted Rock.

Fauna is mostly grazing cattle, although deer, pocket gophers, and various birds can be seen, especially Red-Tailed Hawks. Flora is dominated by grasslands, although in the spring California Poppies, purple Lupines, and other wildflowers can be found.