LARPD and Zone 7 Water Agency Celebrate the Opening of the Patterson Ranch Trail

LARPD and Zone 7 Water Agency Celebrate the Opening of the Patterson Ranch Trail

The Livermore Area Recreation and Park District (LARPD) and Zone 7 Water Agency are pleased to announce the opening of the Patterson Ranch Trail, a long-awaited project that enhances outdoor access and promotes environmental conservation. This 2.3-mile trail is now officially open to the public, offering stunning vistas and enhanced connectivity between key recreational areas in the Livermore Valley.

The Patterson Ranch Trail begins off the connector trail southwest of the Arroyo Road Parking Lot at Sycamore Grove Park just across the Edward R. Campbell Bridge. It reconnects with Sycamore Grove Park at the west gate, just south of the Valley View Loop. Along its route, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Tri-Valley, Brushy Peak, Mount Diablo, Lake Del Valle, and Cresta Blanca.

On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, a ribbon-cutting ceremony officially celebrated the trail's opening, with representatives from Zone 7 Water Agency, LARPD, and trail-building volunteers in attendance.

“This trail reflects the hard work and teamwork of our community,” said David Furst, LARPD Board Member. “Thanks to the efforts of volunteers, LARPD staff, and our partnership with Zone 7, we’re excited to open it to the public as a place for everyone to enjoy and connect with nature.”

In 2013, Zone 7 acquired the Patterson Ranch property comprised of 5,000 acres within the Del Valle watershed, ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for the community. This acquisition aligned with the agency's mission to provide safe and reliable water services while recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship and public access.

"Zone 7 has a long history creating partnerships that make its properties accessible for recreation. The opening of the Patterson Ranch Trail, adding 2.3 miles to the existing 19 miles of trails on Zone 7 facilities, exemplifies this commitment," added Zone 7 Board President Dennis Gambs. “It offers residents more opportunities to connect with nature and appreciate the vital role the watershed plays in sustaining the community.”

Over the course of five trail-building days, 121 volunteers came together to help build the trail, contributing hundreds of hours in support of this project. Their efforts were complemented by LARPD Rangers and Zone 7 Water Agency, who completed the finishing work to prepare the trail for public use.

To protect the trail's natural environment and ensure safety, mountain bikes and equestrian use are not allowed. The trail is open to hikers and runners who are encouraged to enjoy its beauty and expansive views.

This project underscores the shared commitment of LARPD and Zone 7 Water Agency to enhancing outdoor recreation and fostering community connections through accessible open spaces.


For more information on the trail and its features, please visit www.larpd.org/news

    


     
 


About LARPD
Created by a vote of the public in 1947, the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District (LARPD) is a multifaceted agency that encompasses most of the eastern half of Alameda County, a 243.5-square-mile area bounded by Contra Costa County to the north, San Joaquin County to the east, Santa Clara County to the south, and the cities of Pleasanton and Dublin to the west.
 
LARPD provides the people of the Livermore area with outstanding recreation programs and a system of parks, trails, and facilities that enhance the quality of life. For more information, visit www.larpd.org.

 
About Zone 7 Water Agency
Zone 7 Water Agency is one of the 10 active zones of the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District. The District was established by the State Legislature in October 1949 to solve problems of flooding, drainage, channel erosion and water supply and conservation in Alameda County. In 1957, by popular vote, Zone 7 became a special district governed by a seven-member board of directors.
 
Along with flood protection, Zone 7 supplies water to all of eastern Alameda County and a population of over a quarter million residents. Treated water is sold wholesale to local retailers, including the cities of Livermore and Pleasanton, the Dublin San Ramon Services District, and the California Water Service Company. Zone 7 also distributes untreated water to local agriculture operations and golf courses.

Photos:
  • Patterson Ranch Trail Map: Map indicating the trail route
  • Views from Patterson Ranch Trail: Photo taken from the lookout loop of the Patterson Ranch Trail.
  • Patterson Ranch Ribbon Cutting: LARPD Board Member David Furst (with scissors) and Zone 7 Water Agency Board President Dennis Gambs officially cut the ribbon to open the Patterson Ranch Trail
  • LARPD David Furst and Zone 7 Dennis Gambs: LARPD Board Member David Furst and Zone 7 Water Agency Dennis Gambs Celebrate the Opening of the Trail