Explore Lime Ridge Open Space

A wild ridge leading toward Mount Diablo

Lime Ridge Open Space protects 1,226 acres along Walnut Creek’s eastern edge, where a prominent ridgeline rises toward Mount Diablo. Its 25-mile trail network offers hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing through rolling grasslands, wooded areas, chaparral, and former quarry landscapes.

One of Walnut Creek’s most diverse landscapes

Lime Ridge contains some of the last remaining chaparral habitat in Walnut Creek and supports a rich variety of plant and animal life. Trails pass through several distinct plant communities, making the landscape feel noticeably different as visitors move across the preserve.

Why it’s called Lime Ridge

The preserve takes its name from limestone once quarried in the area by the Cowell Portland Cement Company. Remnants of those quarry landscapes remain part of Lime Ridge’s character today, connecting its natural scenery with the region’s industrial past.

What to look for

🌿 Rare remaining chaparral habitat
⛰️ Ridgeline views toward Mount Diablo
🪨 Historic limestone quarry landscapes
🚲 Hiking and mountain-biking routes
🦌 Diverse plants and wildlife
📍 Trailheads in Walnut Creek and Concord

🐕 Dogs

Yes, although leash rules vary depending on what section you are in and rangers recommend dogs remain on leash at all times.

In the North Lime Ridge area, north of Ygnacio, dogs must be under positive voice and sight command or leashed at all times. Since cattle graze in this area, dogs chasing cattle can be a serious issue. Lately, there have been some negative dog vs. coyote encounters when dogs stray close to dens as well.

No dogs are allowed at any time in the center section of Lime Ridge south of Ygnacio. This is the Lime Ridge Wildlife Preserve area. South of the Preserve, dogs are allowed once again but on leash only.