Bay Area driving guide · Long backcountry run

Mines Road to Lick Observatory

The back way to Lick. Most people drive up Mount Hamilton from San Jose; coming in from Livermore turns a hill climb into most of a day, through country that feels a long way from either city.

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Mines Road south
San Antonio Valley Road
Mount Hamilton Road

Start: Livermore
Finish: Lick Observatory, Mount Hamilton
Return: Optional loop below

Why this drive

Three roads that add up to more than their parts: Mines Road works south through ranch land, San Antonio Valley Road crosses the empty middle, and Mount Hamilton finishes with 224 counted bends and 48 switchbacks. Bring fuel and patience — the Junction is the only stop.

The route

Mines Road south from Livermore
Head south out of Livermore on Mines Road. The first section is narrow and wooded before it opens into the valleys.
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San Antonio Valley Road
Mines Road becomes San Antonio Valley Road near The Junction. This is the remote middle of the drive, open and exposed.
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Mount Hamilton Road to the observatory
Turn west for the climb to Lick Observatory. Check the observatory's own visiting hours before relying on the gates being open.
Road details & map →

Good places to stop

The Junction
The cafe where Mines Road meets San Antonio Valley Road, and effectively the only stop on the route.
Lick Observatory ↗
Visitor hours and road conditions are posted by the observatory; the summit road is subject to closure in winter weather.

Make it a loop

Continue west and down Mount Hamilton Road into San Jose, which makes the whole thing a crossing rather than an out-and-back.

Weekends & road conditions

Police sometimes patrol Highway 9 and Skyline, including weekends. Local riders have reported enforcement on both roads. Follow posted limits throughout the drive.

Expect other drivers, motorcycles and cyclists around these popular roads and junctions. Before heading out, check Caltrans QuickMap for state-highway conditions and San Mateo County road closures for local roads.