Hidden Lakes Park close in but out of sight
Editor’s Note: This story is part of The Pioneer series on local parks.
MARTINEZ, CA (Jan. 25, 2022) — They call it Hidden Lakes Park for a reason: You will need an adventurous spirit and determination to find these lakes in Martinez.
You won’t see them from the road or the parking lot, and you won’t find them by following trail signs – there aren’t any. But if you ask enough hikers or explore long enough on your own, you will eventually locate them.
The reward is beautiful views of nature in its most rustic form, picturesque lakes surrounded by tall grasses and oak trees, birds swimming, flying and chirping, and reflections of the hills and sun on the calm water surface.
You can access the 26-acre Hidden Lakes Park from Chilpancingo Road, just a few miles past Diablo Valley College. The ample parking lot is close to an all-purpose, all-weather sports field, two ballparks, a sand volleyball court, a basketball court, a playground and trails.
Hiking with dogs
On a recent sunny but chilly winter day, most users of the park were hikers and dog walkers.
“I used to come here with the DVC cross country team, and we would train on the trails here,” said Sally Stafford of Walnut Creek. “Now I come here to enjoy the trails with my dog.”
Her friend Kate Ando of Martinez added: “The hiking is really good here. The trail around the lake is really great for dogs.”
From the main parking lot, a paved path to the west leads to a long bridge. Once over the bridge, a dirt path to the right takes you to the 1.8-mile loop trail around the lakes. There are other hiking trails here as well.
Picnics and playground
The park borders Hidden Valley Park, which offers group picnic areas, a larger playground and a big grassy field with views of Mt. Diablo. The hidden lakes can also be accessed from this point, with parking on Center Street.
Martinez resident Jim Runyan recalls when the land was open space, before it became a park.
“My wife grew up in Martinez, and she used to ride horses here. I lived in Pacheco and remember riding my bike here to go swimming in the lakes. There used to be a ranch here, too.”
Nowadays, he brings his grandchildren here to play on the playground.
Hidden Lakes Park is a true gem, an easy escape to nature, and a hub for local sports in warmer months. Get on your hiking shoes and get ready to explore.
Kara Navolio
Kara Navolio is a freelance writer, telling stories of real life heroes and interesting people for several local newspapers since 2015, including The Pioneer and Lamorinda Weekly. She is also the editor of a local magazine, Northgate Living, and her debut children’s picture book Everybody Can Dance! was released by Brandylane Publishers, Inc. in May 2019. She has lived in Walnut Creek with her husband for 30 years and is the mom of two now grown children.