5 Dublin-Area Hikes To Kickstart Your 2025 Resolutions

DUBLIN, CA — With the holidays behind us, there’s no better way to kick off 2025 than by hitting the dusty trails to fulfill New Year’s resolutions of staying active and connecting with nature.

Recent studies have highlighted the numerous health benefits associated with lacing up your hiking boots for an adventure.

Hiking regularly can enhance cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones and improve balance. A 2023 study published in BMC Public Health found that participants in a winter hiking intervention increased their physical activity levels, which led to better sleep and less stress.

But it isn't all about physical health. Spending time in nature — especially while hiking — has also been linked to better mental health. According to 2024 research from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, exposure to green spaces can boost mood, reduce anxiety and lower the risk of depression.

Heather Eliassen, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at Harvard, says even those who live in cities and work indoors can and should try to reap the health benefits of nature.

“If there are some green spaces a short or medium distance from home, try walking or biking to the green space to get the benefits of exercise while getting [there],” she said. “Or, find green space you could incorporate into your commute to or from school or work.”

AllTrails, a website and app that was "founded on the idea that we’re all made better by spending time in nature," makes it easy to find nature areas and hiking trails of varying levels near you.
While searching, the website allows users to set the distance, difficulty level, length, suitability and more.

In Dublin and around Alameda County, the website lists dozens of scenic trails — from steep mountainous terrain that can take hours to ascend to quick and "easy" trails along babbling brooks and wildflowers.

Here are five trails in and around Dublin to explore:

• Martin Canyon Creek and Donlon Canyon Loop - This 5-mile loop is "moderately challenging" and popular with hikers, runners and walkers alike. The trail features forested areas and good views and is open to leashed dogs and humans year-round. Directions and more details here.
• Alamo Creek Park Trail - Generally considered to be an easier trail, this fully-paved 2.1-mile trail only takes about 40 minutes to complete on foot and is perfect for getting younger kids outside. Bicycles, scooters and leashed dogs are also welcome. Directions and more details here.
• Courdet Trail - Popular for birding, biking and hiking, this 4.1-mile journey through Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park takes visitors through grasslands and trees, with plenty to see from the top of the ridge. Directions and more information here.
• Valley View Trail to Blue Oak Trail Loop - This 4.4-mile loop in Augustin Bernal Park is considered "moderately challenging," and is popular for hiking, birding and horseback riding. Residents of Pleasanton can access the park with identification, and visitors from elsewhere can enter with a permit. Directions and more information here.
• Cresta Blanca — Cresta Blanca winds along the edge of Lake Del Valle before crossing Arroyo Valle Creek and ascending to a summit overlooking the East Bay hills and valleys. The 2.1-mile loop takes a little over an hour to complete, and dogs can be off-leash in some areas. Directions and more information here.

Search for more hiking trails near you.