Brushy Peak Regional Preserve is a nice little open space area conveniently located a short distance north of 580 in Livermore. I had visited it once several years ago, and I wanted to take another look at it. I knew that it was a place without much shade that could be quite uncomfortable in mid-summer heat, so I waited for a day that promised to be a bit cooler.
Darby and I started out from the staging area on the West Side Loop Trail, obeying the sign and keeping him on a leash. The sky was mostly overcast, and it was only a little bit warm, but the humidity was high and I was soon dripping with sweat as I was climbing up this little valley. Near the head of the valley, a large house on a hilltop nearby reminded me that this is not exactly wilderness. After a considerable climb, the trail cuts across the south slope of the peak just a few hundred feet below the top. The actual peak is an area held sacred by local native americans, and access is limited to those with tour reservations. I didn't feel like climbing any higher anyway. This area just below the peak is quite interesting with scattered oak trees and lots of sandstone outcroppings, not at all like the treeless lower hills.
As I began to descend the other side, there were nice views to the southeast of hills lined with wind generators. Further down, I passed not far below a line of generators, and was surprised that they made a considerable amount of noise in an otherwise very quiet place. Finally, another dry little valley took us back to the staging area. It had been a good hike in an interesting place and just about right for Darby and I, who are both getting older and don't like to get too worn out.
4.6 miles, 800 ft. climb
