The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Mulholland Open Space Preserve
4.8
(236)
3,862
hikers
144
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Mulholland Open Space Preserve traverse a 250-260 acre landscape characterized by golden grasslands, scattered oak trees, and chaparral. The preserve offers varied terrain, including both paved and unpaved paths, with elevations providing panoramic views of the Moraga Valley, Diablo Hills, and Mount Diablo. While generally considered an easy climb, the trails wind through hillsides, offering diverse perspectives of the natural surroundings.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Mulholland Open Space Preserve
- The most popular family…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.0
(1)
3
hikers
6.70km
01:52
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.88km
00:52
100m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(6)
234
hikers
4.85km
01:17
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
81
hikers
8.00km
02:18
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
7.05km
02:03
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
From this high point on the Rim Trail, you'll enjoy commanding views of Lafayette Reservoir and the surrounding foothills—with a picnic table conveniently located for a quick rest and a snack.
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From this point, you can enjoy an almost unobstructed view of the entire Lafayette Reservoir, with the city visible in the background.
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Throughout the hike, you'll encounter amazing views of the Lafayette Reservoir and the city. The trail features plenty of up and down hills, providing a nice challenge. Since most of the trail is uncovered, it offers unobstructed views, but be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen on a hot day to stay protected.
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Here you can relish the beauty of the water while hiking, or take a break to partake in various other activities the reservoir has to offer. These include fishing, picnicking, and even the option to rent a pedal boat, providing a different perspective of the area.
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Dam that creates the large reservoir. The paved along the top of the dam is a good connection between the trails on either side of the lake
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Good information on trails, fishing, boat rental, restrooms, drinking water fountains
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After weaving around the natural contours of the manmade reservoir, the Nature Trail crosses the crest of the dam on the north side of the lake.
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Along the upper part of the Rim Trail the views open up down and across the Lafayette Reservoir lake to the East.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Mulholland Open Space Preserve?
Mulholland Open Space Preserve offers a wide variety of trails suitable for families. You'll find over 150 hiking routes in the area, with 79 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.
What are some easy, family-friendly trails for a relaxed outing?
For a gentle walk, consider the Rim Trail to Lafayette Viewpoint, which is just under 3 km and offers lovely views. Another excellent option is the Lakeside Nature Trail, a 4.9 km easy route that's great for exploring with kids.
Are there any loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, for a slightly longer but still family-friendly loop, the Lafayette Reservoir Rim Trail Loop is a moderate 8 km option that offers a complete circuit with beautiful scenery.
What kind of views can we expect on the trails?
Hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Moraga Valley, the Diablo Hills, and Mount Diablo. The preserve features golden, cattle-grazed grasslands dotted with oak trees and coyote bush chaparral, creating a picturesque California landscape.
Is Mulholland Open Space Preserve dog-friendly?
Yes, Mulholland Open Space Preserve is a popular spot for dog owners. Dogs are permitted off-leash on the paved sections of the trail, provided they are under voice control. Leashes are required on unpaved portions, so please be mindful of the trail type you choose.
What is the best time of year to visit with family?
The preserve is particularly beautiful in autumn when the landscape is painted with vibrant hues of green, red, and orange. However, it's a great destination year-round. Be aware that there is little shade, so it can be quite warm during sunnier times, especially in summer.
Are there any amenities like restrooms or water along the trails?
For visitor convenience, there are trash cans and running water available near the water tower on the Mulholland Ridge Trail. Restrooms are also accessible at the neighboring Hacienda de las Flores Park during its operating hours.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Mulholland Open Space Preserve?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 230 reviews. Reviewers often praise the expansive views, the diverse terrain, and the accessibility of the trails for various fitness levels, making it a favorite for family outings.
Are there any trails that combine different types of scenery?
The Rim Trail and Lakeside Nature Loop is a great choice, offering a mix of ridgetop views and lakeside tranquility over its 6.7 km length. It's an easy route that provides varied scenery for the whole family.
What kind of wildlife might we see during our hike?
The preserve is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 77 species, including rare and endangered birds. Visitors can frequently spot white-tailed kites, red-tailed hawks, and American kestrels soaring overhead, making it an exciting experience for nature-loving families.
Are there any longer, moderate options for families with older children?
For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Lafayette Reservoir Rim Trail is a moderate 7.1 km route. It offers a good workout with rewarding views, suitable for older children who are comfortable with longer distances.
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