Imagine hiking, cycling or horseback riding on connected trails all the way from the Delta in Oakley through Brentwood, Round Valley Regional Preserve, Los Vaqueros Watershed, Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, Mt. Diablo State Park and Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve.

When commissioners of the State of California Parks and Recreation Department approved the plan for Marsh Creek State Park last January, the historic John Marsh House and the 3,659-acre parcel of land surrounding it – located on the south border of Brentwood – were officially recognized as California treasures. The park will form a vital link in the connection between the Marsh Creek Trail in Brentwood and Round Valley.

On Thursday, May 3 at 7 p.m. in REI Brentwood’s community room, 2475 Sand Creek Road in The Streets of Brentwood lifestyle center, John Marsh Historic Trust Executive Director Gene Metz will explore the unique cultural and environmental features of our state’s newest park.

Attendees will learn about pioneer John Marsh and the stone house he built in the mid-1800s, the original Rancho Los Meganos, the archeological evidence of human habitation dating back 7,050 years and the endangered species native to the park’s diverse habitats. Metz will also discuss the park’s plan for 70 miles of trails, camping areas, a Native American Miwok village and a fully restored stone house featuring a center for cultural and environmental education.