The Bear Creek Trail is a 4.3-mile Lafayette area hiking trail that is great for both beginning hikers and avid outdoorsy adventurers. The trail takes about 2 hours to complete, making it a great short hike for a weekend afternoon. 

The Bear Creek Trail boasts stunning water views and relatively flat terrain, but you'll also see your fair share of lush forests. It runs along the south side of the Briones Reservoir, making it a nice shady spot even on the hottest days. Regulars also advise that hikers pick a stopping point based on their preferred distance and turn back at that spot, as the Bear Creek Trail doesn't form a loop like many others in the area.