For many, Berkeley’s 136 paths and stairways are a local resource and historical treasure that seem to be maintained and improved by an invisible hand. Overgrown paths are magically weeded overnight. Decaying steps replaced after decades of wear. Much-needed handrails appear out of nowhere. Group walks are organized.
In fact, all these benefits are planned and executed by a hardworking team of BPWA board members working quietly behind the scenes. We meet monthly, either in person or over Zoom, to review and discuss BPWA activities, financials, and our collaboration with the City of Berkeley. In case you ever wondered about the folks who make BPWA a vital organization, here’s a brief rundown on who we are and what we do. And if you’re ever tempted to join our efforts, we’re always looking for new board members!
Start at Live Oak Park and proceed to the Rose Garden and walk towards Grizzly Peak. Along the way we will experience great views of the Bay as well as see a mural and some pottery.
The work is mostly weeding, sweeping, raking, and clipping. We will have gloves and tools available.
To receive the location information, RSVP path.maintenance@berkeleypaths.org.
Millions of years before its first human inhabitants arrived, North Berkeley was strewn with fascinating rock formations. Today, the area includes a set of lovely parks where these remnants of its geologic past can be seen. We'll talk about the Native American presence in the area and how the rocks were used by these first inhabitants.
We will walk along the paved Nimitz Way trail for 2 miles and then head up a short but rather steep 0.25-mile fire road to Wildcat Peak. We’ll reach the peak about an hour into the hike and take a long break to watch the sun set and the full moon rise.
Take advantage of a unique opportunity to join a leisurely walk and a conversation with Shoshana O'Keefe, Berkeley District 5 Councilmember. The group will spend the first 15 minutes at the Great Stoneface Park for introductions and initial questions. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are allowed.
For most Americans, the term “suburbia” conjures single-family homes and uniform architecture in areas that are solely residential and reliant on car transportation. With its array of land uses and architectural styles, North Berkeley defies this stereotype; its differences are the qualities that make it great.
Be the first to know about upcoming walks and path news by signing up for our newsletter!
Your generosity enables us to build more paths, add handrails, and offer our path-oriented events.
“Paths connect. It is their first duty and chief reason for being. They relate places in a literal sense, and by extension they relate people.
- Robert Macfarlane, The Old Ways: A Journey on Foot
”