The Big Break Trail, operated by the East Bay Regional Park District, begins at the north end of Jordan Lane at Walnut Meadows Drive and runs north and then east to Marsh Creek. Much of what you can view along this route falls along Ironhouse Sanitary District property that is located to the southeast side of the trail. There's nothing quite like taking a walk on a cool autumn morning. Here's a preview of what you might find...

Ducks and geese make regular visits to the retention ponds that are located behind the chainlink fence that lines the trial. You will likely see them flying in or out as they search for food.

One of ISD's service vehicles travels across district property. The fields are currently used to grow hay that feeds the district's cattle. Eventually this property will be the home to ISD's new wastewater treatment facility, scheduled to open in early 2011.

Downy thistles dry in the September sun, hailing the end of summer.

By September, yarrow loses its yellow flowers and up close resembles miniature trees. It is plentiful along the trail.

You can always find a few wild blackberries ripe for the picking — if you can get to them. The best ones are often out of reach, protected by thick, thorny brambles.

Don't fear if you encounter one of these orb weavers (and you undoubtedly will). They are about the size of a half dollar, but mostly harmless unless you happen to be an insect. Their webs are prevalent among the berries and trees along the trail.

A praying mantis pauses while crossing the trail. Usually difficult to see because they change color to match their surroundings, mantids are plentiful in late summer months.

A dozen small birds stake out their perches along a run of barbed wire. The wire is there for the public's protection, as it isn't safe for humans and pets to come into contact with the reclaimed water in the retention ponds. The reclamation process, when complete, purifies the water so that it can be used for crop irrigation.

A small butterfly rests on a blackberry bush.

Western fence lizards such as this one love to sun themselves on the warm asphalt of the trail. They spend their days hunting for insects and aren't shy about showing themselves, although they will usually run if you attempt to get too near.

Canada geese congregate on an island in one of ISD's retention ponds. The Delta is along the birds' migratory route.

Splendid California sunsets are always a special treat. The last rays of the day slip behind a power plant on the trail's western horizon.

What would a day on the trail be without majestic views of Mount Diablo? The mountain isn't far away, but you'll be far from the rooflines and other obstacles that obstruct your enjoyment of one of East Contra Costa County's natural wonders.