Topo and GPS tracks of today's ~14 mile clockwise outing from the Mitchell Canyon trailhead at the north end of the loop. I did a similar loop counter clockwise last year. Those pics are here

Mt Diablo (and North Peak on the right) is visible from almost anywhere in the East Bay and Central Valley (including this shot from the drive to the trailhead)

Arrived at the Mitchell Canyon trailhead a bit before 9am. Wore my ankle wrap this morning in anticipation of the pounding it would take on the descent.

Starting out on the Mitchell Canyon road. My route would take a left turn and immediate begin the steep ascent.

Junction with the Eagle Peak trail. Took this route on my earlier visit to Diablo but today I continued straight.

Looking north at the grassy meadow that borders the mountain to the north. Town of Clayton, CA beyond the meadow.

Junction with the Back Creek Road. Right turn here to start heading up canyon. Back Creek was flowing off to the side of the trail.

Left turn to take the Tickwood trail that cut over a minor ridge to Donner Canyon. Didn't pick up any ticks today.

This trail junction wasn't on the map I was using, but I think it headed off toward the Donner Cabin site. Both routes led down to Donner Canyon road.