Morgan Territory Regional Preserve
Back in the day before all this recreational hiking – when hikers were known as explorers – in order to enjoy the thrill of the view from a high place, you were required to trudge up to that place. On foot, if you can believe it. Nowadays we let our cars do the climbing, especially if we hanker for the glories of Morgan Territory. When we arrive at the park’s staging area and pop the car door, we’re already 2,040 feet above sea level. No trudging required.
Sunrise on Roger Epperson Ridge in spring. Epperson supervised Round Valley, Black Diamond Mines and Morgan Territory for the East Bay Regional Park District. The inscription chiseled into the rock reads “In memory of Roger Epperson (1954-2008) in recognition of his significant and lasting contributions to the East Bay Regional Park District and the landscapes he loved.”
California buckeye in full bloom.
Ruby chalice clarkia, Blue Oak Trail.
Morning silhouette of a valley oak along the Clyma Trail.
Harvest brodeaia, Eagle Trail.
Mt. Diablo's North Peak at sunrise viewed from Raven Trail.
A blue oak rests its elbow on a boulder along the Volvon Trail.
Valley oak against the backdrop of Mt. Diablo’s North Peak on a foggy morning in June.
Manzanita blossoms, Condor Trail.
Mt. Diablo at sunrise viewed from Raven Trail. Vernal equinox 2024.
A trio of valley oaks in January viewed from Epperson Ridge.
Bark peels from madrone, Prairie Falcon Trail.
Storksbill filaree, Stone Corral Trail.
A valley oak welcomes morning sunlight along the Clyma Trail.
Mt. Diablo at sunrise viewed from Highland Ridge.
California buckeye in autumn. Highland Ridge.
The panorama from my rock recliner along the Prairie Falcon Trail. Photo by Chris Erickson.
Mt. Diablo fairy lantern, Coyote Trail.
California buckeye, autumn sunset.
Winter evening on Roger Epperson Ridge.