Greenbelt Trail is a 6.3 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Hayward, California that features a river and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
No biking on the lower half of the trail. Bikes are only allowed after you cross 2nd st heading east.
There is parking on the west side of Campus Drive. It's not that easy to see unless you're looking for the sign so be prepared to turn around.
This is what I consider the ultimate trail (without having to drive too far into the wilderness). I hike this trail once a week because it's behind my neighborhood and because it's the perfect workout for me and my dog. Shaded almost the entire time (yay!). I start behind the Hayward Plunge where it starts flat but gets the heart ready for the rest of the journey. Doggie bags and a trash can are near the trail head. The next garbage is at the second trailhead. Please use the bags and cans... Once you hit the stairs and continue you start to get a great up/down mixture. Be careful crossing the street at the end of the first part of the trail. Go to the right of the crosswalk and start the second part of the trail. Several trash cans along this route. When you get to the crossroads head left and you'll start to get a nice up hill workout, especially after 1.5 miles in. When you finish this trail head down the "private" road and you'll see the third trailhead on your left. Lots of annoying downhill here, but it'll even out for a nice cool down. Lots of trash cans for dog droppings here...please use them. Overall this is a great workout that won't kill you if you're in decent shape. Dog friendly if your dog has the stamina mine does, as she's half husky.
Nice lollipop loop! Close to urban areas, but feels secluded. Path is wide and in good shape!
Good hike, but a lot of bugs, so use bug repellent if you got it. Walking the connecting trial loop was a little weird, as you have to pass through a neighborhood. If you’re looking for a scenic view, there are none, but a lot of shade.
Decent hike. Wouldn’t suggest it if you’re looking for great scenery, but perfect if you’d like to get in an ok workout. Went during midday in Aug so it was terribly hot but the trail is mostly shaded.
Very shady. A bit disappointing as there was no view at the high point. Lots of bugs on the trail.
The upper loop of the trail is a solid 4 stars. It is not dramatic; there is no rewarding view from the top -- but very pleasant to go along the shaded trails watching the creeks meander below. The lower stretch of the trail, from Mission Blvd to the loop, however, is disappointing. It shares the general character of the upper loop -- but there is more metal & concrete culvert work; graffiti on the rock faces, more traffic noise, and always an awareness that the homes are present on the ridges above you. So better to park at the intersection of Oakes Dr & Campus Dr --- and simply do the upper loop.