East Bay Regional Parks Launches Trails Challenge for 2025

CASTRO VALLEY, CA — Do you need more inspiration to hit the hiking trail in 2025?

The East Bay Regional Park District has launched its 2025 Trails Challenge, an annual program inviting the public to explore trails handpicked by district staff to show off the region's stunning natural beauty. If you're short on time, there are trails close to home in Castro Valley. If you have a whole day, morning or afternoon, this is your chance to explore far-flung parks in the East Bay.

Finishers will receive a 2025 Trails Challenge shirt, while supplies last. There are also awards, prizes and giveaways participants can earn.

"The East Bay Regional Parks Trails Challenge is a great way to explore regional parks and get to know new parks. The selected trails highlight magnificent views, landscapes, and wildlife in the East Bay," said Mike Moran, the district's regional interpretive and recreation services manager.

"The trails challenge offers an opportunity to get away from the buzz of everyday life and connect with nature and each other in parks."

Started in 1993, the 2025 challenge includes 20 trails of varying difficulty levels located throughout the East Bay. The list includes a number of fully accessible trails that have been evaluated and identified as usable by persons with mobility limitations.

To finish the challenge, participants need to walk, ride, or roll five trails, or 26.2 total miles, by Dec. 31, 2025. Walking, biking, and horseback riding are valid ways visitors can participate.

"We want as many people as possible to take the challenge and benefit from time in nature," Moran said. "In 2025, there are even more rewards for finishers of the challenge, including monthly drawings of finishers, special categories based on age, a trailmaster patch for those who complete all 20 trails, and a 2025 challenge champion award for the person who completes all 20 trails first."

All finishers must submit their trail log online to qualify for a special award, prize, or giveaway.

People interested in the 2025 Trails Challenge can pick up a free guidebook and T-shirt at any East Bay Regional Park visitor center. The guidebook can also be downloaded.

There will also be drawings for those who post selfies on social media and tag #TrailsChallengeEBRPD.

Bay City News contributed to this article