Nimitz Way Trail

Trail Overview: ** This trail was reviewed by an individual that used a rear wheel motorized wheelchair.

 

The 8-mile out and back Nimitz Way Trail snakes it’s way along San Pablo Ridge, past a few trees that gradually give way to scrub, a stand of Eucalyptus, and towards its end, barren cow pastures although if there’s been a wet winter there can be a blanket of green covering the hills. The weather can be foggy and breezy so it’s a good idea to layer-up.

For a challenging workout complete with many dips and climbs--sometimes for long stretches--this is the place. The first mile can be busy with people walking dogs, baby strollers, and runners. After that, the people thin out and you’re left with sparkling views of the San Francisco Bay, the surrounding hills, and San Pablo Reservoir and Mt. Diablo to the east. Stop at one of the many benches enroute to take in the scenery.

The trail starts with a short gentle incline and then another at .3-mile. At 1.2 is another gentle grade (3%) then at 1.5 mile you pass a stand of eucalyptus trees that provides a change in scenery and offers the only shade on the trail. After another three-quarters mile, just beyond the intersection with Conlon Trail, the flora transitions to rolling hills dotted with bushes and trees: cows can be seen grazing. From here out you will likely catch glimpses of raptors hunting. Shortly after (2.5 mile) there is a steep incline (13%) then a long gentler stretch before you start a continuous uphill towards the trails end.  A washout at 3.8 miles has been cordoned off but a replacement section of gravel and dirt lets you pass.

The pavement ends just beyond the 4-mile marker and a bench slightly off the trail is a good resting point before heading back. The trail, which now becomes the dirt and gravel San Pablo Ridge Trail, continues from here but this trail has not been reviewed for accessibility.

More Info: After 1.7 miles there are four cattle grates to skirt around. The first one requires passing through a gate and the remaining three have level passageways that vary in condition and width; the narrowest opening is 28." Be advised that there are limited level stretches. Age, popularity, and the environment has taken a toll on the asphalt which is cracked in places and has even subsided especially the farther out one travels. The trail passes through an active grazing area so expect to navigate around cow patties.

The facilities listed below meet all of our access criteria unless otherwise noted.