Hayfield Rd, California

If you are looking for a place where you will have anything resembling cell phone coverage or urban excitement, then turn around and run in the other direction. But if you are looking for some stunning, panoramic views, solid exercise, or an escape from the urban sprawl and redwood canopies alike, few places offer better hiking than Sunol Regional Wilderness.

Many lifetime Bay Area residents have never even heard of the area, much less been there to visit. The rolling, green hills are quintessential characteristic Northern California, and even if you have not heard of the area, chances are you've seen it if you have driven through Highway 880 in Fremont. The trail system offers several rivers and waterfalls, but the true beauty of the hike comes from the never-ending green foothill vistas. The lack of trees allow for spectacular 360-degree views, whether it is sunny or cloudy. You'll never quite forget that you are in a populated area, given the views of the Bay, the airplanes flying into SFO and San Jose, and the abundance of trail runners, but chances are, you probably won't care. The easy grade and well-marked paths make even long-distance hikes feasible in a single day, and everyone can enjoy the views along the way.

Like just about every park, open space, and other beautiful area in the Bay, the cell phone reception is the weakest link in this area. So don't expect to email pictures to your friends until you have made it back into town. Happy hiking!