Trail Highlights:
The peaks of Mt. Diablo are in view for most of this hike. In spring there are wildflowers in abundance, and in summer the California buck-eye trees are in glorious bloom. The Raven trail and some parts of the Clyma Trail are wooded and shady. Otherwise, the route winds through grasslands and open, rolling hills. The trail is steep in a few sections.
Trail Description:
From the NW corner of the staging area, cross Morgan Territory Rd. To the right is a dirt trail marked “Clyma Trail” leading off from the road. Follow this through a cattle gate and across a bridge. In .2 miles stay to the right. In another .2miles, bear left on Clyma trail. Shortly after passing a cattle pond on your right, continue straight on Clyma Trail. A mile later, you’ll enter the remnants of an old orchard. After this, turn left near the bottom of the hill and head uphill on the Highland Ridge Trail. Make the next right onto Raven Trail. Continue straight on Raven Trail past the intersection of Fox Trail and past the next unmarked intersection a few yards ahead. In about a half mile, turn left to stay on Raven Trail. A half mile later, turn left onto Fox Trail. Continue straight on Fox Trail until you intersect Raven Trail and turn right. From this point on, you’ll be retracing your steps to the staging area. Turn left on Highland Ridge Trail. Bear right on Clyma trail at the marker at the bottom of the hill, and stay on this trail all the way back to Morgan Territory Road and the staging area.
Park Features:
Nestled in the Diablo Foothills, Morgan Territory is a stunning and remote five-thou-sand acre preserve. Sandstone outcrops, lowland valleys, and expansive ridge top views make for a varied experience. These lands are the ancestral home of the Volvon, a Bay Miwok people. There are two accessible restrooms and drinking fountains at the staging area. Dogs, bicycles, and horses are allowed on all trails on this route.
Driving Directions:
From I-580 in Livermore, exit onto N. Livermore Ave. and turn north. Shortly after N. Livermore curves left (west), turn right onto Morgan Territory Road and follow it for about 5.5 miles to the staging area. From Walnut Creek/Concord, take Clayton Road to Marsh Creek Road, then turn right onto Morgan Territory Road. The staging area is on the left, 9.4 miles from Marsh Creek Road.
