There are tons of places with amazing views here in the 925. Our hilly terrain and beautiful open spaces makes sure of that.
But within several of those spots, you’ll find something uniquely relaxing and contemplative: secret benches, where you can pause for a moment, sit, and truly enjoy the beauty around you.
Built by family members to commemorate their loved ones, or added in an ad-hoc way by hikers, these benches are perfect little local landmarks.
I’ve been “collecting” them over the years. Here are five that I love.
1. Lafayette Community Center Trail
I’m putting this one first because I discovered it recently, and I love the story behind it. This bench is located on the trail network behind the Lafayette Community Center.
You start from the Community Center, go over the footbridge, turn left, and walk to the Hillside Trail. You can then follow it up to a little clearing, where you’ll find this special bench, and a secret rope swing.
I included a photo of the bench in an article about the weather. Reader Cindy C wrote in to say “Much to my delight and surprise, I immediately recognized the landscape in the photo you published alongside your article on the potential Bay Area drought. My siblings and I installed the memorial bench pictured there in remembrance of our loving parents.
You (or your photographer) beautifully captured the waning days of the spring daffodils we planted behind the bench. My husband and I often walk from our home to visit the bench, and we never tire of the ever-changing views, no matter the time of day or season. It especially warms my heart to see others enjoying the spot—often with children playing nearby on the swings. I know Mom and Dad would be delighted, too.”
What a beautiful piece of serendipity, from a beautiful spot!
2. Lafayette Reservoir Visitor Center
Everyone knows about the Reservoir. But if you go to the Visitor’s Center, start walking up the staircase towards the upper parking lot, and then walk out across the grass, there’s a stunning bench with panoramic views of the water and the tower.
It’s a nice spot to pause before starting your hike.
The secret is out! Please help spread the word and share this story to your Nextdoor or Facebook. It really helps us get new readers.
3. Inspiration Point
Technically, this bench is probably over the line into Berkeley. But because the trail that reaches it starts in Orinda, we’re going to count it.
This bench is about 1 mile in on the Inspiration Point/Nimitz Way trail in Tilden Regional Park.
This is the bench that inspired by quest to track down amazing, “secret” benches. After the hike out, you’re treated to a uniquely beautiful, secluded spot where you have views across the whole Bay Area, with a little hint of the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance.
In the Spring, you’ll find California Golden Poppies. It’s a very special spot.
4. Lafayette Ridge Trail
This bench moves, so you’ll have to track it down! It’s actually a picnic table, but close enough.
The Lafayette Ridge Trail begins across from Acalanes High School and ascends straight up, with beautiful views over Lafayette and Alamo, to an old cow barn.
If you go a bit higher, there’s a clearing with some old concrete structures and a point of land with amazing views.
Somewhere on that point–and sometimes down by the cow barn, if someone has moved it–is a roving picnic table. Have some water and a snack and enjoy the view.
Sometimes this one disappears for a while, so it’s never guaranteed. I assume hikers carried it up there in an ad-hoc way originally.
5. Moraga Commons’ Ridgeside Secret
There are plenty of benches in Moraga Commons Park. But if you walk up the hill behind the stage, towards the disc golf course, you’ll find this beautifully secluded little picnic table at the very top.
It has a view of the whole park, yet you can’t see it from the ground level. I discovered it while following one of my kids up the hill, and it’s an absolutely perfect spot for a picnic.
Want other local secret articles like this one? Make sure to join my free 925 News newsletter.
