I found hiking nirvana. Rockville Hills Regional Park, which is about 2-1/2 miles off I-80 in Fairfield, CA, is the full package for nature lovers – broad grasslands draped by oak trees, and in the spring, carpeted with purple and yellow wildflowers; sweeping vistas that surprise from narrow, mangrove-crowned paths; and trails with names like “Devil’s Backbone” and Wild Turkey Run” that make this park a favorite among mountain bikers and trail runners.
Less than a mile from the parking area and trailhead, there’s even a pond and small lake with nearby benches and picnic tables for quiet contemplation. All of this beauty is set to the accompaniment of singing and chirping birds who make the park home.
Spanning 633 acres, Rockville Hills has more than two dozen listed trails and seemingly countless offshoots that beg for exploration. My only advise would be to bring a trail map or download the All Trails app on your smartphone. The signage isn’t great, and I did worry a couple of times that I might get lost. You can always ask a bicyclist though, as they seem to know the trails well.
Nearby Wine Tasting
After a morning or afternoon hike, experience the small but vibrant wine growing region of Suisun Vally and Green Valley which surrounds Rockville Hills. You won’t find the crowds or traffic of neighboring Napa and Sonoma, but you will discover over a dozen family-owned wineries that offer tours and tastings in an relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
Practicalities:
Rockville Hills Regional Park is open sunrise to sunset, and the trail head is located at 2149 Rockville Rd, Fairfield, CA. The parking lot is small and fills up early, but people just park along the road. There’s an entrance fee of $3 per person and $1 per dog (must be on leash at all times.)
Taking the train:
Bicyclists can turn their visit to Rockville Hills into a car-free journey, by taking the Amtrak-operated Capitol Corridor train to the Suisun-Fairfield Station, which is an easy 8-mile ride from the park.
More info:
Visit the City of Fairfield’s website for more information about the park.