Description
The trail to the top of Mission Peak rises steeply from a Fremont residential neighborhood, climbing more than 2000 feet in less than 3 miles. It's a slow and steady slog for many hikers, while some locals use the peak as an exercise machine, humbling less fit observers while they RUN to the top. Mission Peak's challenge is tempered by scenic landscapes, spectacular views, and, particularly in spring, hillsides dotted with wildflowers. Grassland and flowers provide kind of an all-you-can eat buffet for the park's cows, who have been known to display violent mood swings. Be sure to give them a wide berth. In addition to cattle, you might see or hear wild turkeys and a variety of raptors. Less commonly spotted mammals include bobcats, coyotes, and believe it or not, a few wild mountain goats (there's a photo of them on the front to the preserve brochure). You might think mountain goats seem poorly suited to a Bay Area park, but once you get to the summit of Mission Peak, you'll see why they've adopted the rocky mountaintop.
Trail Stats
