3.0
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37
hikers
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3.52km
50m
Hiking
Embark on an easy hike along the Goldenrod Trail, a pleasant route that winds through varied landscapes within Lake Chabot Regional Park. You will cover 2.2 miles (3.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 155 feet (47 metres), making it a perfect choice for a quick outdoor escape that takes around 59 minutes. As you hike, expect to find wide dirt doubletracks leading you through fragrant eucalyptus groves and into open, partially-exposed meadows.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible and offers parking right at Lake Chabot Regional Park. This route is a great option if you are looking for a family-friendly outing without the need for special permits or concerns about snow conditions or road closures. You can enjoy this trail year-round, but late summer and fall are particularly vibrant when the goldenrod plants are in full bloom.
The Goldenrod Trail provides a wonderful introduction to hiking in Alameda County, California, offering a diverse natural setting without being overly strenuous. Keep an eye out for the bright yellow goldenrod plants that give the trail its name; they add a splash of color and attract various pollinators during their season. The route also incorporates a section of the Bass Cove Trail, adding to the scenic variety and overall experience.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
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Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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3.52 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
3.30 km
201 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.48 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (200 m)
Lowest point (70 m)
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Tuesday 19 May
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Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The Goldenrod Trail, as mapped on komoot, is an easy hike that typically takes about 1 hour to complete. This duration is based on the 3.5 km distance and an average hiking pace.
This specific route on the Goldenrod Trail is rated as easy. It features a gentle elevation gain of 47 meters and a descent of 124 meters, making it suitable for most hikers, including beginners.
Parking for the Goldenrod Trail is available within Lake Chabot Regional Park. Specific trailhead access points and parking lots can be found on the park's official website or by checking detailed maps of the area.
Dog policies within Lake Chabot Regional Park, where the Goldenrod Trail is located, generally allow dogs but require them to be on a leash. Always check the latest park regulations before your visit to ensure compliance.
The Goldenrod Trail is enjoyable year-round, but late summer and fall are particularly scenic. During these seasons, you might see goldenrod plants in bloom, adding bright yellow splashes to the landscape and attracting pollinators.
Lake Chabot Regional Park may have specific entrance fees or parking fees, especially for vehicles. It's advisable to check the East Bay Regional Park District's official website for the most current information on fees and any required permits before your visit.
The Goldenrod Trail in Lake Chabot Regional Park is known for its varied terrain. While specific details for this exact route are limited, trails in the area often feature wide dirt doubletracks, passing through eucalyptus groves and partially-exposed meadows. Expect some gentle climbs and descents.
Yes, this route on the Goldenrod Trail intersects with other official trails within Lake Chabot Regional Park. Notably, it covers 99% of the Goldenrod Trail itself, and also includes significant sections of the Bass Cove Trail (46%) and the Cascade Trail (32%).
Given its 'easy' difficulty rating and relatively short duration, the Goldenrod Trail is generally suitable for families with children. The varied scenery and gentle slopes make it an accessible option for a family outing.
Hikers on the Goldenrod Trail can expect to see diverse local flora, including the namesake goldenrod plants, especially in late summer and fall. The park's environment also supports various wildlife, though specific sightings depend on the time of day and season.
While the Komoot tour doesn't list specific highlights, trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park often offer scenic views of the lake, surrounding hills, and diverse landscapes from groves to meadows. Keep an eye out for these natural viewpoints along the way.