Touring * Fitness * Beginner * Artistic *

From Interstate 80 (also known as Interstate 580 through this area) around Berkeley, take the University Avenue exit heading into North Berkeley to the east. Three blocks past San Pablo Avenue, turn left onto Acton Street. Follow Acton four blocks until you reach the North Berkeley BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) station. Park in the BART lot or on Acton close to the barricades at the northwest corner of the BART parking lot. The trail starts just behind the barrier.

Whether you're commuting to work, looking for a quick lunch workout, or just getting your first feel for in-lines, the Ohlone Greenway is a good downtown route for all three because the pavement is smooth and there are no hills. Skate north to follow this bike trail that passes under the BART tracks between stations in North Berkeley, El Cerrito Plaza, and El Cerrito Del Norte. The trains going by on the tracks above you can be noisy, but they pass quickly and run less frequently on weekends. On the first section of the trail in Berkeley, where you'll hit most of the street intersections, you won't get lost as long as you follow the green "Bike Route" signs. (Make sure you know how to stop at intersections before attempting the entire tour.) Once you enter Albany, the trail's character changes for the better. Here the route is enhanced by a park with grass, trees, flowers, and a separate path for pedestrians. There's even a par course for those who want to get fit as they stroll or roll. The tiny but well-maintained older homes across the way add a sweet charm to the scene. The Emporium shopping center signals your entry into El Cerrito, near the trail's halfway mark. Shrubs are in a more wild state here, and weeds grow around the bases of trees planted for landscaping. The backyard fences on your right may detract from the scenery, but the pavement remains smooth. Shortly after skating past the El Cerrito Del Norte BART station, a sign marks the end of the trail at the intersection of Key Boulevard.