Situated in the Oakland Hills, the residential enclave of Piedmont sits tantalizingly close to many of the Bay Area's most spectacular scenic drives. Whether looking for a quick getaway to the coast, a winding journey through redwood-covered mountains, or a leisurely cruise through rolling vineyards, the roads around Piedmont offer a wealth of beauty and adventure. But which of these excursions will take your breath away or carry the promise of a genuinely grand adventure?
Below is a guide to the best scenic drives near Piedmont and what you can expect to experience along the way.
Grizzly Peak Boulevard – The Best Bay Views
If the mood strikes, detour into Tilden Regional Park, home to beautiful hiking trails and serene picnic areas. Once the sun sets, the drive transforms into a magical spectacle of city lights, making it one of the most scenic night drives in the Bay Area.
Common Questions
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Is Grizzly Peak safe at night?
While popular for night views, some pullouts are isolated. Visitors should remain aware of surroundings and avoid secluded areas after dark. -
What’s the best time to visit?
Sunrise or sunset on clear days. Avoid foggy conditions due to poor visibility. -
Are there restrooms or facilities?
No direct facilities on Grizzly Peak Blvd, but Tilden Park (5-minute drive) offers restrooms and picnic areas.
Key Takeaways
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Offers panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and iconic landmarks.
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Best visited during sunrise or sunset for optimal viewing.
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No direct restroom facilities, but nearby Tilden Park has amenities.
Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) – A Redwood Wonderland
A particularly charming stop along the route is Alice's Restaurant in Woodside. A famous respite for bikers and road-trippers alike, the eatery is known for its hearty meals and rustic atmosphere. Nearby, Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve offers a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the views from one of the many scenic trails. The road continues through dense forests, making it one of Northern California's most relaxing and visually stunning drives.
Common Questions
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Is parking available at trailheads?
Yes, at Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve and Alice’s Restaurant. -
Are dogs allowed?
Varies by preserve; check individual park rules.
Key Takeaways
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Offers views of redwood forests and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean.
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Alice's Restaurant is a popular stop for hearty meals.
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Parking is available at key stops along the route.
Highway 1 – The Ultimate Pacific Coast Drive
If you have time to spare, plot your return as an inland loop around the Peninsula and San Francisco Bay via the thrillingly twisty Highway 84 (La Honda Road). From seaside hills across patches of rolling farmland through dense forests amidst the 6,142-acre La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve, this drive offers a little of everything that makes scenic drives worth the time and effort. As you continue, worthy stops include Apple Jack's Bar, a nearly 150-year-old dive bar, or link up with the aforementioned Skyline Boulevard to claim a trifecta of stunning scenic byways in a single drive.
Common Questions
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What’s the best season to drive Highway 1?
Spring/fall for fewer crowds; summer often foggy. -
Are there tolls?
No tolls on this section of Highway 1.
Key Takeaways
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Offers breathtaking ocean views and quaint beach towns.
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Best driven in spring or fall for clearer skies.
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No tolls, making it an ideal scenic drive.
Napa Valley Wine Country – An Array of Contrasting Landscapes
The turn north onto Interstate 680 is a necessary but less picturesque interlude that carries you through the hyper-developed areas of Concord, Pacheco, and Vine Hill before motoring past a pair of oil refineries that sit sentry on either side of the Carquinez Strait. Once clear of industry and bridge, you emerge amongst pastoral plains and bucolic hills. The remainder of your trip is vintage wine country, crossing over at Cordelia and traveling across majestic landscapes as Highway 12 takes you into Napa. At that point, you become the grape and Highway 29 your vine as you meander past iconic wineries through bustling towns as you bob in and out of picturesque, sun-soaked hills.
Common Questions
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How long is the drive to Napa?
~1 hour from Piedmont via I-680/Highway 12. -
Are there EV charging stations?
Available in downtown Napa and major wineries.
Key Takeaways
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Offers a scenic detour with views of Mount Diablo.
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Approximately 1-hour drive from Piedmont.
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EV charging stations available in Napa.
Mount Diablo Scenic Drive (Summit Road) – Bay Area's Best Summit View
There are two ways Piedmont residents can access Summit Road—N Gate Road via Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek or S Gate Road via Diablo Road from I-680 in Danville. Both options are visually stunning and take roughly an hour, passing through oak woodlands and chaparral-covered slopes with multiple scenic pullouts. "Rock City," a fascinating stop on the route, features unique sandstone formations and short hiking trails. Once at the top, the outstanding Mount Diablo Summit Visitor Center provides panoramic views and an opportunity to literally stand atop the summit, making this drive a rewarding challenge for any nature lover.
Common Questions
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Is the summit road open year-round?
Yes, but check for closures after winter storms. -
Are there entrance fees?
$10 per vehicle for Mount Diablo State Park.
Key Takeaways
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Offers panoramic views from the summit.
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Open year-round with a small entrance fee.
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Rock City offers unique sandstone formations.
Pleasanton Ridge Scenic Drive – Rolling Hills and Vineyards
Stop in Pleasanton's charming downtown for a leisurely lunch at one of the many cafés, or explore the nearby Sunol Regional Wilderness for its superb hiking and wildlife watching. The drive is gorgeous in the spring when wildflowers bloom, covering the hills in vibrant colors.
Common Questions
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Is the drive suitable for RVs?
Narrow sections may challenge large vehicles; compact cars recommended. -
Are there guided tours?
Self-guided only; trail maps available at park entrances.
Key Takeaways
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Offers scenic views of rolling hills and vineyards.
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Spring offers vibrant wildflower displays.
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Best suited for compact cars due to narrow sections.
Exploring Northern California's Most Scenic Roads
If you're ready to explore more of Piedmont real estate, including discovering the ideal jumping-off point for your favorite scenic drives, contact Anian and Adrienne Real Estate today. Allow their extensive knowledge and expertise to help you navigate this extraordinary luxury real estate market.