One of the East Bay Regional Park District‘s three oldest parks, Charles Lee Tilden Regional Park has been called the jewel of the system, and its recreational activities have become a happy tradition for generations of East Bay youngsters.
From a carousel ride and a picnic to a swim at Lake Anza and a stroll through the Botanic Garden, Tilden has variety to delight everyone. Yet there are plenty of quiet places in Tilden’s 2,079 acres to shelter the wildlife and preserve natural beauty.
Tilden was named for Charles Lee Tilden, first president of the Park District Board of Directors. The park is reached via Canon Drive, Shasta Road, or South Park Drive, all off Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Berkeley.
There are 39.41 miles of trails in Tilden Park, through many different kinds of terrain.
The larger multi-use trails allow hikers (with dogs), bicyclers and horses. Some are for hikers and horses only, and the smaller single-track trails are for hikers only (yes, Fido is considered a hiker).
View map on the website for specific details. Paper trail maps can be found at most of the bulletin boards at trailheads in the park, or you can print one yourself from the website.
Nimitz Way, paved and wheelchair accessible, is popular with hikers, dogwalkers, bicyclists, and equestrians, and affords spectacular views from the crest of the East Bay hills. The best parking for this trail is at Inspiration Point on Wildcat Canyon Road. Please note there is no drinking water at this parking area, and dogs must be on a leash on Nimitz way.
The East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail follows Nimitz Way and other Tilden trails during part of its 31-mile route.
- Hours: Open between 5am and 10pm unless otherwise posted or permitted
- Swim Hours: 11 am – 6 pm daily
- Fees: Parking – No fees. Dogs – No fees.
- View Tilden Attractions (PDF) for a list of current hours, fee information, and phone numbers.
