Election Section

The pursuit of fitness in nature continues, as does the Trails Challenge. This month we shift from the redwoods of the East Bay hills to the East Bay shore, exploring Point Isabel and Point Pinole. 

Fido has seen your Trail Log and wants one of his own. He’s also seen that bright green T-shirt and expects a leash of the same color. There are many opportunities for dog excursions along the 1,150 miles of trails within the 65 East Bay Regional Parks. But, like most things in life, there’s a right way to go about taking Fido along. 

A hiker needs to be in good condition to enjoy the trails, and the same goes for your dog. Before you leave home, evaluate his condition and that of the outdoors. Dogs absorb heat through fur and paws and can’t cool down as easily as humans. On warm days, opt for shade and rest stops. Paws can be damaged on rocks and hot pavement; they need to be toughened slowly. All in all, consider the length of the hike and start slow. 

Safe drinking water may not be available so carry your own; dehydration can come on quickly. Also carry a supply of plastic bags. Respect fellow hikers and the environment and act responsibly. Pick up your dog’s waste and deposit it in a trashcan. Don’t leave bags by the side of the trail. There is no “poop patrol” to pick them up. 

Dogs are usually permitted off-leash in undeveloped areas within most parks but must be under your control and a leash must be at hand. Ultimately, it’s your responsibility to know where they are allowed off-leash; negligence could result in a fine of up to $160. Your responsibility extends to knowing if your dog should be off-leash, how he interacts with other dogs and people. Always be aware of non-dog walkers approaching. Be courteous: call your dog until they pass. 

At the end of a successful hike check your dog for ticks and foxtails. Dogs can succumb to Lymes disease and arrow-shaped foxtails easily will work their way below the skin. Always check ears, eyes, nose and between toes for both of these pests. 

Trails Challenge #2: Point Isabel Regional Shoreline: 1.7-miles, rated easy, dogs permitted off leash.  

This park is a good test for you and your dog. The trail is short, the dogs are plenty and you’re never far from your car.  

Eye-pleasing views are standard fare at Point Isabel. The open blue of the bay with the Golden Gate Bridge and Angel Island will draw your attention. So will the myriad assortment of people and dogs sharing the trail.  

Start at the Isabel Street parking lot and follow the paved path along Hoffman Canal, across the bridge and onto the north section of the park. You’ll pass open grassy fields and depending on the tide, either water or mudflats. Beware; access areas are frequent for a refreshing swim or mud bath. Don’t despair; Mudpuppy’s Tub & Scrub is conveniently located next to the parking lot for an inexpensive solution. Remember, you’re both there to have fun! 

Trails Challenge #3: Point Pinole Regional Shoreline: 4.2-miles, rated easy, dogs permitted off-leash in undeveloped areas.  

Point Pinole is peaceful today. Twelve miles of trails meander through 2,147 acres of rare coastal prairie with quiet vistas along San Pablo Bay. But take a step back in time to before 1960 and peaceful would not have served as a descriptor.  

Between 1880 and 1960 four explosives companies in the area manufactured over two billion pounds of dynamite. Farmers and ranchers originally co-existed with the Nitro Powder Co. Forty years later Giant Powder Co. created its own town, complete with railroad station, schools, housing and recreation. Today only their footsteps remain in oddly shaped foundations, sunken bunkers, raised earth berms, wood pilings and partially visible railroad ties. 

This Trails Challenge hike is a gentle loop out to the point on Bay View Trail, returning via Marsh and Cooks Point Trails. Bay View Trail, accessed to the left after crossing Badger Bridge, leads out to the shoreline, through stands of eucalyptus, rolling grasslands and past marsh plants in vivid green and orange. This wide, mostly level trail has lots of shade as well as a cooling breeze off the water. A gravel base ensures dry boots on a rainy day. 

Hues are subtle but no less appealing, a palette of soft greens, tans and browns among the grasses and long strips of peeling bark off eucalyptus trunks, revealing interesting patterns below. Exposed mudflats reveal an assortment of driftwood, shells, algae and a stalking egret. 

Diversions are many. Benches are strategically placed and beach access trails lead down to the shore for relaxation and exploration. At the Packhouse trail marker, you come upon a raised earth berm, looking like a Point Pinole Pyramid with its cement foundation, massive wood beams and topping of native grasses. Nature can find a niche almost anywhere. 

As you approach the point and fishing pier the Bay View Trail winds right through an enticing picnic area, leafy and green. At the main road, turn left and head toward the pier, passing two Interpretive Panels. Built in 1977, the popular pier extends 200 feet over the bay. Bring your rod or watch hopeful anglers anticipating a catch of sturgeon or perch. Alongside, the Old Wharf pilings are all that remain of the shipping dock of Atlas Powder Co. 

The pier marks the halfway point of the hike. From here foot-weary hikers can catch the shuttle back. Trail Challengers can head back on Marsh Trail (follow sign “To Owl Alley.”) The meadow landscape is familiar, now with views to the north. Dabs of color stain grasses, birds sing, lizards soak up the sun—it’s hard to equate this peaceful scene with its bustling past. 

After a half a mile, a hidden treasure appears on the right, a lovely fresh water pond rimmed with cattails, reeds and benches. Coolly refreshing. From here the meadows widen; look closely to see foundations of the Giant company town. 

At the intersection with Cooks Trail, turn left for the Press House, home to the black powder press, the brawn behind Hercules Powder Co. Using 4,000 pounds of pressure, this press turned charcoal, saltpeter and sulfur into explosive material. 

Young eucalyptus serenade you along Cooks Trail. Tall and slender, a gentle breeze sets them swaying and creaking. Hopefully these moans are not a reflection of your own aches after 3.5 miles.  

The final leg of the hike takes you through the major picnic and recreation area of the park. Here broad lawns, shade, a small playground and ample picnic facilities entice you to end your day with a plate of BBQ, a chilled drink and a smile on your face. 

For more information see www.ebparks.org or call 562-PARK. Trail maps available. 

Point Isabel: From I-580 or I-880, take Central Ave. west to Point Isabel. Open 5 a.m.-10 p.m., no fee. 235-1631. 

Point Pinole: Take I-880, exit on Hilltop. Go east on Hilltop, right on San Pablo, Left on Richmond Parkway and right on Giant Hwy. Open 5 a.m.-10 p.m. Fees: $5/car, $2/dog. Shuttle operates daily 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. except Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 237-6896.i