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A universe in the East Bay: above UC Berkeley and Oakland, the hills are alive with science - Travel: Northern California Day Trip - nature exhibitions, parks, outdoor recreation

Lisa Taggart

Sometimes the best trip is the kind that takes you far away figuratively but keeps you close to home literally. When you visit the East Bay hills, you get the best of both worlds: From the steamy core of the earth to the cosmic forces beyond the stratosphere, you can see it all in a day of discovery.

Start at Forces that Shape the Bay, the new permanent outdoor exhibit at Lawrence Hall of Science (Centennial Dr.; 510/ 642-5132). Opened in June, the small park is dotted with interactive displays, including a strike-slip earthquake fault simulator, a curved compression bench that shows how plates move, and several waterfalls illustrating hydrodynamics and erosion. In simpler terms, it's a fun place for kids and adults to climb on rocks, play in the dirt, and get their hands wet. To boot, there's a stellar view of the bay below.

Journey from the earth's core to the continental crust by traveling down the hill to nearby UC Berkeley Botanical Garden (200 Centennial; 510/643-2755). Here the glorious plant displays are divided into geographic regions. Stroll from the water lily--dotted Japanese pool to shaded California redwood groves.

Head back up the hill for a pretty, winding drive that passes trailheads for several regional parks. Look for the stratified rock layers you just learned about at Lawrence Hall of Science.

After about 8 scenic miles, you'll find domed Chabot Space & Science Center (closed Mon; 10000 Skyline Blvd.; 510/336-7300). Learn about telescopes and space travel by day, or stargaze through the center's scopes from dusk to 10:30 on Fridays and Saturdays (weather permitting). The newest attraction is "Nellie," the 36inch reflector telescope unveiled in June.

Fortify yourself in nearby Montclair Village with picnic fixings at Italian deli A.G. Ferrari (6119 La Salle Ave.; 510/339-9716) or gourmet burgers at Flippers (2060 Mountain Blvd.; 510/339-2082). Or investigate some of the modem world's greatest discoveries: chocolates at Le Bonbon (2050 Mountain; 510/339-2962) or creamy goodies at Montclair Malt Shop (2066 Mountain; 510/339-1886). Go ahead, sample a few--all in the spirit of the scientific method.

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