Mount Wanda

The John Muir National Historic Site is an expansive area in Martinez, California, which is part of the San Francisco Bay Area. The area includes a mansion where John Muir lived and 325 acres of parkland, including the gorgeous Mount Wanda. This mountain was named after John Muir's daughter, and there's a beautiful trail you can hike to the summit. The Mount Wanda Trail is a 2.3-mile hike loop hike that can be completed in just over an hour. Dogs are welcome to hike this trail as well, but they're required to remain on a leash for the duration of your journey. You'll find free parking available on Franklin Canyon Rd.

This hike leading to the Mount Wanda summit also follows the John Muir Nature Trail for the first 1.09 miles (where you'll see a sign) before a left turn. At 1.20 miles, you'll turn right, and at 1.33 miles, you'll see a new path that leads you to the mountain's summit.

Before you begin your hike, stop at the signboard to pick up a guide to the trail and a list that outlines the wildflowers and other flora you'll see on the path. From here, you'll follow a dirt path that rises with a steady incline for the duration of the hike. At about a mile in, the path begins to narrow, so you may have to watch your footsteps more carefully from here on out.

During your hike, you'll cross peaceful bridges and streams, and see a variety of wildlife along the way. Once you reach the top, you'll be amazed by the 360-degree views that await you! If you packed a lunch, you could stop to eat it at the top, but be aware that on windy days it's probably easier to stop at a different picnic table on the trail.

The trail is open from sunrise to sunset. However, the sight of the full moon rising from Mount Wanda is truly a sight to be seen, and the park service runs ranger-guided nighttime tours of the trail several times a year for those looking to catch the moonrise. Whether you visit in daylight or in dead of night, you and your pooch are sure to have a furrific time hiking Mount Wanda!