The Laughlin Ranch Loop trail is a 2 mile on a wide dirt road that climbs and descends through the rolling hills outside of Livermore.
One of several trails within the Brushy Peak Regional Preserve, this trail begins behind a cattle gate adjacent to the gravel parking area. The trail begins climbing immediately with a steady incline, eventually rising about 360' in elevation, up through the grassy hills. Near the top, panoramic views of the Livermore area, along with the rolling hills in the vicinity are breathtaking. Often kestrels, hawks and vultures might be seen circling the air.
If there's a downside to this hike, it is that there is no shade anywhere along the trail. Those hiking during sunny or windy conditions will be completely at the mercy of the elements.
Our choice is to take the hike in a clockwide direction, thus saving the large views for the second half of the hike, rather than the descent through the ranch land.
There is a vault toilet, benches and trash can at the trailhead parking area. The preserve is open daily from 8am to 8pm.
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