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Summary: Temperatures in the summer can be extreme. The 5,717 acre preserve contains 3 historic coal mining sites, a historic cemetery and approximately 50 scenic trails. Very hilly terrain offers spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Trailhead: Take Highway 4 to the Somersville Road exit in Antioch. Drive south on Somersville Road to the Preserve entrance. $4.00 parking fee. Maps available for approximately 50 trails within the 5,717 acre preserve. Bring plenty of water. Summer can be very hot for hiking. (Lat:37.57 Lon:-121.51) Trail Guides for Black Diamond Mines Hike: Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Horses, Ranger Contact: East Bay Regional Park District (510) 635-0135 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Diane Savard, who has posted 5 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review I enjoyed this hike very much when out in the less travelled areas (although, as with all hikes in California, in late Spring, Summer, and early Fall, the heat can be oppressive, so bring plenty of water!) HOWEVER, the major flaw (which may have improved since) was the presence of many people with unleashed dogs (which this park allows, last I heard). This, in theory, wouldn't be a problem, but many of the folks were letting their dogs run up to strangers without asking permission or giving any warning. Some dogs were even chasing cyclists, while their oblivious owners did nothing. Owners were amazingly rude and clueless when told to call off their dogs. If you like to hike up and down small hills and enjoy looking at small and very large rock and trees,you are in luck to find this place. Off trail there is this beautiful large rock that you can climb and seat on top of the rock and pretend that you are king of the world. See the bay from several areas;when the grass is green the mountains look great. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Contra Costa County Hiking, Contra Costa County Trails, Contra Costa County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||