Iron Horse Trail Map
Stretching 32 miles through Alameda and Contra Costa counties, the Iron Horse Regional Trail offers cyclists, pedestrians, and equestrians a vibrant journey through nine East Bay communities. Following a historic Southern Pacific Railroad corridor established in 1891, this paved pathway connects major transit hubs, business districts, and recreational areas while providing a crucial transportation alternative for local residents.
Trail Characteristics
The trail serves as both a recreational destination and vital transportation corridor. Following the abandoned Southern Pacific Railroad right-of-way, it provides a largely level grade suitable for users of all abilities.
Trail Surface and Infrastructure
- Paved main trail throughout the entire route, ensuring wheelchair accessibility
- Parallel unpaved paths available in certain sections for different user groups
- Multiple bridge crossings over major roads, including Ygnacio Valley Road and Treat Boulevard
- At-grade crossings at some intersections, particularly in the Pleasanton section
Using This Trail Map
You can further explore this trail by displaying the surface type on the interactive map, to do that click the "Display on map" button in the "Surface Type" tab. Hover over the elevation chart located in the bottom part to discover the elevation profile of this bike route.
Route Description
Northern Section
The trail begins near Highway 4 in Concord and proceeds south through:
- Pleasant Hill (with BART station access)
- Walnut Creek, crossing under I-680 at Rudgear Road
- Alamo's downtown and shopping district
- Danville's town center
- San Ramon
Southern Section
Continuing south, the trail extends through:
- Dublin
- Pleasanton, connecting to the Dublin/Pleasanton BART station
- Terminates near Shadow Cliffs Regional Recreation Area
Facilities and Access Points
Major Staging Areas
- Danville Boulevard Trail Staging Area
- Lisa Lane Trail Staging Area
- Stone Valley Road Staging Area
Transit Connections
- Direct access to Dublin/Pleasanton BART station
- Direct access to Pleasant Hill BART station
- Connections to County Connection bus service
Future Development
The trail is planned to expand to approximately 55 miles, ultimately connecting:
- Northern terminus at Suisun Bay in Contra Costa County
- Southern terminus in Livermore, Alameda County
- Total of twelve connected communities