Jewel Lake Trail, Tilden Nature Area, Berkeley

The Jewel Lake Trail in Tilden Regional Park is a great hike to do with little kids.  The loop is about a mile, is mostly flat, and has a fun variety of things to see and do.  I like to take my son on this walk whenever we’re in the Tilden Nature Area, usually to feed the animals at the Little Farm.  Be sure to leave plenty of time to look for turtles in the lake!  I also recommend packing some snacks, water, and/or a picnic lunch.  It isn’t a long hike, but there are some beautiful spots you may want to stop and enjoy along the way.

Interested in going?  Park in the Tilden Nature Area lot located at the end of Central Park Drive in Berkeley (see website “getting there” section for specific driving directions… www.ebparks.org/parks/tilden/tna).

Here’s the hike description and route, from the East Bay Regional Park District “Short Loop Walks – Northern Region” brochure:  “Go north on Wildcat Creek Trail from the Environmental Education Center, then left onto the boardwalk (Jewel Lake Trail) to Jewel Lake. Follow Loop Road until just past Wildcat View Group Camp, turn right and go down the service road to Wildcat Creek Trail, then left to the parking lot. Description: This shaded hike through the heart of Tilden Nature Area, with its 800-foot long boardwalk, serene Jewel Lake, and peaceful woodlands, is an escape from urban bustle. Please note that dogs are not allowed in Tilden Nature Area.”

While here, be sure to visit the Little Farm!  Check it out… Feed the Animals!  Tilden Little Farm, Berkeley