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Mount Diablo Summit Museum and trailhead
Summit Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598, United States
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Jo
Review №1

Easy to get to with pristine vistas this easy hike was wonderful and fun it made our Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, a day that usually is seeped in tryptophan naps, turned into a good hike; hearty and vigorous but well worth the steep climb. When we reached the top it was breathtaking. We could see for miles, ...San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay.. Picturesque! But dont take my word for it. Look for yourself.

Ti
Review №2

I was hiking from Rock city up to Mount Diablo Summit on July/21/2020.It is 8 miles and a little over 2,200 ft gain.It is $10 parking fee, clean bathrooms, picnic tables, campsite,very friendly staff.AllTrails rated as hard,Yes, it is.The trail very well marked.I had to hiking up, up and ups, very steep.But breathtaking climbs with awesome views of rock city, sentinel rock, canyon, San Francisco Bay Area and much more.This is the most amazing views closest to us.Very good workout since 80% of the trail out on the sun.Hiking shoes, sunblock, hat, umbrella, and water.I will come back to this park soon to hike sentinel rock .

L
Review №3

The museum part is closed right now due to Covid and will likely be closed thru the end of 2020. But the gift shop is now open and has cute little nature items. The observation deck is also open so there are still things to see at the summit.

Pe
Review №4

Winding two lane road goes back and forth for about eight miles. Lots of blind turns and bike riders huffing and puffing as they pedal up the steep grade. Small parking lot at the top and a three story stone building with multiple places to stand and take in the fabulous view. The building was a military observation post in the WWII era it now is a small museum and ranger station. Lots of picnic sites and hiking trails in the area. We spotted several deer that seem to hang out near houses in the lower parts of the road through the park

Su
Review №5

What a hike it is..thoroughly enjoyed it. Take 2 bottles of water(per person). You will be able to refill it when u reach the summit.

Tr
Review №6

LOVE Diablo!!! Views forever on a clear day! I trailrun Mt. Diablo and its a stunningly beautiful mountain with waterfalls, wildflower meadows, horse trails, wildlife... not dog friendly, wildlife preserve is why. Go now and enjoy! I included this weeks snow photos too.

sa
Review №7

Nice view, nice place but windy. Make sure to have enough clothes when you visit mount diablo. You can also hike here.

Ra
Review №8

This place is great!! Its small but I think thats what I like most about it! You get a great view from the top its beautiful!! And the park rangers that run it are super nice!!

Do
Review №9

This is quite the drive up the mountain... My second time here... I am still afraid of heights! The views are awesome!The museum is interactive and fun! The gift shop is full of neat items! There are many trails to go on! Cannot wait to go again!

Di
Review №10

At the top of the mountain, you will find this small museum. The staff was very friendly.They have fossils, animal taxidermy, and demonstrations about the mountain eruption.they also have a small auditorium which displays video about the mountain and its history.There is a small gift shop which sells tee-shirt, toys, etc at reasonable price.

Sa
Review №11

Amazing view, far away from city life. Great hikes of all lengths. Leave home early in the morning so that you can be up here while its still daylight and you are hiking. Alternatively, you can just drive up here and enjoy the view.

Da
Review №12

The 360 view from the top was incredible. Although windy, there was a 360 viewing tower that you could go inside.The museum itself was informative, but the best part for me was at the end of the museum where it it built around the highest point. The exposed rock is there for you to stand on. Pretty cool!

Go
Review №13

Omg.. the drive is so crazy to reach top of the Mt.Diablo. Make sure to drive safe and caution. Great scenic view

Ib
Review №14

Best hiking trip!

Je
Review №15

Gorgeous views. Scary drive up... If someone else is driving!

Sa
Review №16

The journey up to the gorgeous views of the summit is amazing as well. Lots of people hiking, biking as well as driving up to see the views of the snowcapped sierras all the way to the SF skyline.

au
Review №17

Absolutely amazing place! Took an early morning drive up and enjoyed every second of it!

Review №18

We had such a lovely view over the weather was so clear. But the wind was so strong. I wonder when the tarantula come along...

Li
Review №19

Breathtaking experience. Be sure to watch the short video in the museum.

Zi
Review №20

Ouuuf wooow thought we live in a big city and a metropolitan till you see it from above we look like aunts surrounded by beautifull prairies and mountains and to be in the top of 3900 ft make u feel amazing, lovely place roade twisty and amazing views, driver focus on the road passengers do the photos and videos, Aproxamatly a 9 miles up on summit road, they have several trails, they got restrooms and barbecues all the way in the top with banches and lovely picnic tables, no signs as of today 06/13 for restrictions, park open till sunset, around 8:30 pm now count a 30 min driving down before it gets dark, bring warm close very cold once up there in the evening, 10$ admission per car they have other prices for toursHave fun be safe and enjoy the views

Ad
Review №21

Its a great place to relax after a long hike from one of the entrance points to the park. They even sell ice cream of you need an internal cool down.

We
Review №22

A really nice museum on the top of the hill. They have a lot of great information and pics too. Very friendly staff

Ky
Review №23

Best views of the east bay and beyond.

Da
Review №24

Great getaway with Breath taking views & all the good air you can take in

ro
Review №25

Ill give five stars to the summit of Mount Diablo itself. On a clear day its supposed to be one of the most encompassing views in the world. When we went we were literally and surreally above the clouds.

Pa
Review №26

This is a small museum with exhibits on the natural environment of Mount Diablo. It doesnt take very long to get through all the displays. Be sure to take the stairs to the lookout - it provides a nice overview of the summit and surrounding area.There are no free trail maps at the visitors center but if you ask the person working for recommendations on trails.We did the short trail around the summit, which is less than a mile, was easy, and provided nice views. Its an interpretive trail where you can learn about the geology of the area (you can get a pamphlet on it for free at the visitors center).Definitely worth a stop! The drive up and down the mountain takes a while due to the switchbacks but its a lovely drive!

Ju
Review №27

Very cool views of the surrounding area.

To
Review №28

Always wanted to see and experience mount Diablo and it did not disappoint. in the distance San Francisco looks like a small village. The valley a wide expanse.

Ek
Review №29

Good for long drive. Not so great view.

Ze
Review №30

Beautiful Place, Mount being situated at Heart of City thus we can See far off cities of Bay Area (Far better if the Sky and Climate is Clear). The Museum gets closed sometimes before time. In the Museums Walls we can see the remnants of the shells etc..., A proof of its Birth from the Sea

M.
Review №31

Beautiful place for hiking with beautiful view. Its a little windy be prepare.

Da
Review №32

Great trip and great final scene when you get to the top. There needs to be better signs for how to hey to the correct road when you get off the highway.

Ro
Review №33

Choose a day with a clear view, it will be very enjoyable.

An
Review №34

Fantastic view when the skies are clear. Was able to see the Golden Gate Bridge from here on this trip.

Vi
Review №35

Cute little visitors center with interpretative exhibits and spectacular views. They sell souvenirs, have a couple snacks and drinks for sale, and a meeting room with movie screen. There is disabled access to the first floor, and part of the Mary Bowerman trail on the North side of the summit. Mt Diablo has one of the most expansive views in the world, 2nd only to Mt Kilimanjaro.

Ae
Review №36

Nice place to go. Its a mountain situated in the midst of the city and one can see Almost the whole Bay area provided there is no Fog or similar things. Good place for camping and picnic

Ch
Review №37

Lots of cool stuff to learn about and the sights on a clear day are spectacular!

Pe
Review №38

Nice place to visit. You can either use bike or a car to get up to the mountain.

Pe
Review №39

Nice view from above.

Sa
Review №40

This place has a beautiful view and entourage forest, at the summit feels a pure oxygen. I love those kind of places.

Le
Review №41

Love the visitor center and the attention to detail to history geography and geology. Great place to stop at after an arduous trek

Ro
Review №42

42 years ago when I bought my home in Applegate, CA I looked at the deed and saw that over a century before my property had Mt Diablo written in it hmmm? For 30 years while going to work on a clear morning I would see Mt Diablo for 30 seconds from I-80 heading S.W. to Sacramento and thought I would like to visit and go up there, well I finally did and what a museum and view. Make sure you go in winter with a 10 mph breeze to clear out smog or you might be wasting your good view, bring binoculars.

As
Review №43

Refreshing as always.

De
Review №44

After nearly 30 yrs.of living in the shadows of this location it took our oldest granddaughter to request a trip here. The day we went there the sun was out & just a few clouds dotted our skies,but the views gave us were AWESOME ! I just which that more people took pride in this location for the history Museum & views they offer Its visitors.

Je
Review №45

Beautiful views. Small but well put together museum and observatory.

Er
Review №46

Nice views. I drove but there are hiking trails. Also a lot off bikers like to make the accent. It is a slow drive with many turns and no guard rails, but once at the top there are fantastic views. You can see San Francisco Bay and even San Francisco on clear day.

Mi
Review №47

We really were lucky with the fabulous View

Ca
Review №48

Beautiful panoramic view! Well maintained and very impressive bikers conquering the Mount! Recommend highly!

Ha
Review №49

Extremely beautiful scenery. The drive might be long but its definitely worth it to the top! Make sure to visit the deck on top of the visitors center as well for a breath taking 360 degree view. Ensure that youre wearing layers since it can be quite chilly at the top.

Je
Review №50

Amazing views..

Am
Review №51

It’s beautiful sight to see Bay Area of North California!

Da
Review №52

Small, bust air conditioned. Great pit stop and the views are fantastic

Aj
Review №53

Its pretty small but its really well put and full of items and details of the park. Its at the top of the summit below the beacon tower.

Ro
Review №54

Fun motorcycle ride to the top

Mi
Review №55

Great place to visit. Beautiful clear views. Lots of cyclists on the road. Great hiking. All in your backyard!

Fe
Review №56

The museum is tiny, but it is well set up. I wish there was more information about the animal and plant species found in the area. There are pictures and a diorama set up, but nothing has labels/names. The geological aspect of the park was nicely set up and well explained.

To
Review №57

Great views from the peak, usually you can see at least parts of San Francisco. A bit disappointing though if you hike/bike all the way up since it is kind of crowded as you can drive up all the way to the peak. The visitor center has icecream but unfortunately no fruity ones. Bathrooms, water refill station as well as a small bike repair kit available. Parking on the summit is only for 30 minutes, but day parking is available nearby.

Sr
Review №58

Great views from the summit.They have small museum and gift shop at the summit.

Ko
Review №59

AWESOME VIEW and interesting facts

br
Review №60

Moderate-difficult hike but you can drive to the top

Ch
Review №61

Amazing sunset views

Am
Review №62

Phenomenal place once you get up the top, nice combination of shade and open sun, but an awesome hike to see the entire Bay Area.

Ma
Review №63

A great place for learning, exercise,relax & have a great view & a picnic.!!I did like better the enter of wualnut creek better than Danville on.!!

mi
Review №64

Spectacular, I think there should be a discount for locals

Al
Review №65

Definitely worth a visit, 360 degrees view of the Bay Area

to
Review №66

A beautiful drive and views... Pack a picnic for sure.

Li
Review №67

Love climbing up here!! Staff are awesome and they (wisely) sell snacks for hikers & bikers

Li
Review №68

Had a higher fee than we expected ($10), and its a long and windy road to the summit. Lots of bikers that you cant always pass, so it can be slow going. The view from the top is totally worth it though. The museum and visitor center at the summit is very nice. In the end it was worth the time and money.

St
Review №69

Best view Ive gotten in Cali so far

Ja
Review №70

Tallest peak in the area. On a clear day the view is amazing

Vi
Review №71

Good view of valley

Na
Review №72

Excellent views. You can drive all the way up but hiking is certainly more rewarding

Ni
Review №73

Love watching the sunrise here, but it can be very cold and windy!

Hi
Review №74

Beautiful drive to summit and view were fantastic. The musium is free and childrens will like it .if not cloudy can see San Francisco downtown view..

Da
Review №75

Rain, Snow or Sunny day, Always a great time. And is you look close you can see the Saleforce building in SF.

Gi
Review №76

Very nice to visited high hill to watch Vallejo valley

Ty
Review №77

Great for people who are challenged mobily. You can drive all the way to the summit and if theyre able to go up some stairs see some great views. Even if you are not able to walk up stairs or mobile, you will be able to stay in the vehicle and still see a lot of the view from the top.During the winter it can be extremely cold, so make sure to dress appropriately for 30 to 40 degree weather. As a matter of fact its snowed the last time I was there in late March.

Je
Review №78

Would have been 5 stars except they didnt have the park sticker that I wanted.

Ro
Review №79

Wr had extra time to spare. Being from utah it was a bit disappointing. But the rangers were friendly and the one away the gate was especially passionate. Though I learned after we went we missed some of the better spots.

Sa
Review №80

Outstanding views...worth the 45 drive uphill

Ra
Review №81

On a clear day, you will enjoy some spectacular views. You will also learn about the history of the mountain and how it formed, different types of rocks and in pre dinosaur era. This place is not to be missed.

Da
Review №82

We also got to great views and some floral blooms though will be better in a few more weeks..

K
Review №83

Its beautiful

Da
Review №84

Worth the trip, especially on a sunny day. 360 degrees of great views.

Pr
Review №85

Fabulous views, excellent drive. Planned to arrive mid-day in Winter, but was still windy and cold. Limited parking at summit but very good picnic stops enroute.

Ab
Review №86

Extremely accessible view points to capture the amazing California sunsets.

ka
Review №87

An incredibly good place to visit.

Su
Review №88

Beautiful views, helpful, interesting staff...clean facilities!

趙文
Review №89

With water fountains and restrooms on the way to the top is convenient for cyclists

Lu
Review №90

Great view, very pleasant employees all around.

ke
Review №91

Cool views too bad center not open later

da
Review №92

Great location in early spring, fantastic views across sanfran and beyond

Da
Review №93

One of the best regional parks Ive been to.

Er
Review №94

Great staff... Nice easy hikes

Ch
Review №95

Stunning views await after a long, twisting drive Diablo! Bathrooms. Ranger station. Education exhibit. Water.

K
Review №96

Amazing Views, friendly store staff

Li
Review №97

Awesome views. Drive up was a little sketchy.

Co
Review №98

Great views of the the SF Bay and eastern areas

Ja
Review №99

Great views over the entire Bay Area from the summit. Excellent hikes around as well!

Mi
Review №100

Very interesting, parking is limited

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:Summit Rd, Walnut Creek, CA 94598, United States
  • Site:http://mdia.org/
  • Phone:+1 925-837-6119
Categories
  • Museum
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:10am–4pm
  • Tuesday:10am–4pm
  • Wednesday:10am–4pm
  • Thursday:10am–4pm
  • Friday:10am–4pm
  • Saturday:10am–4pm
  • Sunday:10am–4pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Restaurant:No
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