Albany Hill, our local East Bay landmark, has not always had such a straightforward name—and it has not had a straightforward history. Come walk and learn how the hill withstood dynamite explosions and numerous development schemes and has been a home and playground for numerous generations.
We’ll walk near former dynamite factory locations, and do then/ now comparisons with vintage photos of various viewpoints and homes. Local history author Karen Sorensen will draw on research from her two Albany history books and share photos.The 1.7 mile walk will traverse around the hill (not to the top) on both sidewalks and dirt trails (147 ft. elevation gain). It includes a short staircase and two short, but steep, sidewalk sections. 2 hours. Not wheelchair accessable.
$10 for BHSM members, $12 for non-members. Reservations required—sign up by mail with this form or online here.
Walking Tour Details
Tours start at 10:00 a.m. and generally end between 11:30 and 12:00. Sometimes they are slightly longer, so be aware if you park in a two-hour zone. Tours are limited to 30 paying participants unless noted otherwise. Pre-paid reservations are required and tickets are not refundable. Tours are conducted in rain, shine or fog.
Keep a record of your order. Email addresses and telephone numbers are very important for confirmations and last-minute changes. You will be sent an email or a phone message with each tour’s starting point.
For last-minute reservations, call 510-848-0181 between 1 and 4 pm on the Thursday or Friday before the tour to learn the meeting place and sign up if there is an opening.
If you have suggestions for future walking tours, please email info@berkhistory.org or leave a message at 510-848-0181.
SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE WALKS ARE WELCOMED