SHOOTER'S TOUCH: Rockin' in the Tree World

Tilden Regional Park

If Berkeley wore a tall and flowery hat, it would be called Tilden Regional Park.

Perched in the mountains just north of the bustling University of California hub, the sprawling expanse of nature provides visitors with beautiful views of the Bay Area and a welcomed sense of short-term separation from the urban world below.

A day trip to the park is on the bucket list of many Cal students, who somehow manage to neglect the opportunities there -- hiking, biking, horseback riding and springtime picnicking, among others -- despite their proximity to the 2,079-acre reserve.

Tilden, however, isn't some sort of town secret. Tourists and residents in the region can be found enjoying the space in harmony. Cyclists, joggers and dog-walkers share the numerous trails, including the Nimitz Way path (pictured) that starts at Inspiration Point.

A leisurely stroll offered the accompanying landscape, a well-blazed trail paralleled by a path of sunlight above. The balance, shadow patterns and dominating greenery made this a memorable image -- even with a point-and-shoot digital camera.

So, saunter through the park and soak in the scenery -- it's free. Just don't forget a camera, a friend or three, some PB&J sandwiches and, even if there's some cloud cover, a hat.

Amble on!

Shooter's Touch is an ongoing series of cool photos. For other installments, click here.