June 25, 2021
George Miller Regional Trail
Total distance walked: 3.5 miles
When I visit family in the Bay Area, I try to squeeze in a hike. On this visit, we set out to walk the lesser-known George Miller Regional Trail in the cool of the morning. Nature was astir and the birds were singing.
The trail winds in and out of steep hillsides between the historic towns of Martinez and Crockett, California. With a few gentle grades along the way, it stretches high above the south side of the Carquinez Strait shoreline.
Picturesque water scenes and views of the town of Benicia were our constant companions along the trail.
Peeping around the corner was Mt. Diablo.
The smooth asphalt path made pushing the stroller easy, and Luke loved the ride.
Originally constructed around 1914, the trail followed the configuration of an old road bed that linked Martinez and Crockett. In 1983, the road was permanently closed due to deterioration and damage from landslides. A renovation project established in 2010 to improve the road, was completed in 2014, a century after its original construction. The trail was named in honor of retired-Congressman George Miller, for his work and support of the project.
An occasional freight train rolled on tracks below the trail, and a speedy Amtrak transported passengers to Oakland.
Boats cruised along the calm waters of the channel. From what I’ve read, fishermen most often catch striped bass, Chinook salmon and white sturgeon there.
The path led us past an organic labyrinth made of rocks, broken brick, and chunks of asphalt. There was no information as to who created this wild and untamed maze.
The area is home to the western newt. Though we didn’t see any, we did spot a northwestern fence lizard warming itself in the morning sun.
We continued walking until we reached the northwest edge of the trail where remnants of old waterfront industries were left to rust. They conjured up the historic character of the site. From there, we turned and retraced our steps to the car.
There are a plethora of trails in the Bay Area. Heading out on this easy day hike and exploring nature with family was a delightful way to spend a summer morning.
