State: CA Length: 2 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Aquatic Park Trail travels along a hairpin-shaped route through Aquatic Park and around a small lake narrowly separated from the bay. The trail runs parallel to, and across the road from, the San Francisco Bay Trail Emeryville to Richmond segment. The Works Progress Administration built the park in the mid-1930s as part of the Berkeley Waterfront Project. The lake conforms to international standards for model yacht racing. Aquatic Park includes many amenities: elaborate playground, rowing center and boating, disc golf and fitness course. The park is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
State: CA Length: 12.90 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Arroyo Mocho Trail is a part of a network of multi-use trails in Livermore and which also links with the city of Pleasanton. The trail provides access to neighborhoods, schools, numerous parks, the business district and municipal facilities. Some sections are immediately adjacent to high-traffic streets, while other segments follow a paved route along the arroyo, removed from traffic. The Arroyo Mocho Trail intersects with the Isabel Avenue Trail just north of Stanley Boulevard.
State: CA Length: 0.50 miles Surface: Concrete
The Barberry Walkway runs parallel to Barberry Lane between Corda Drive near Meadowfair Park and Dina Lane. There are plans to extend the walkway along the outskirts of the park to Quimby Road.
State: CA Length: 4 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Beach Range Road Multi-Use Trail runs parallel to Highway 1 along the Pacific Coast, offering a safe alternative for commuters in Sand City, Seaside and Marina, and for students attending the California State University of Monterey Bay (CSUMB). It will also provide a connection to the area's light rail transit service at the future Monterey Branch Line station at 8th Street and CSUMB in Marina. The trail was formerly a military access road for historic Fort Ord. The fort, established in 1917 and closed in the 1990s, is now home to Fort Ord Dunes State Park with miles of shoreline and natural areas to explore. The route offers spectacular scenery, including views of sparkling Monterey Bay, sandy beaches and some of the highest dunes on California's central coast. Trail-goers can continue their journey along the coast on the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail, which parallels Beach Range Road and travels south to Pacific Grove and north to Castroville.
Rail-Trail
State: CA Length: 0.80 miles Surface: Dirt
The Black Diamond Railroad Trail is within the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, a splendid place to visit with a fascinating and unique history. From the 1850s to the early 1900s, the region was the site of the largest coal mining operation in California. People from all over the world migrated here, and the coalfield's presence transformed the area from one primarily used for cattle ranching into the industrial and population center of Contra Costa County. Mining operations ceased in the late 1940s because of dwindling profits, and the land reverted to agricultural use once again. In the late 1970s the East Bay Regional Park District started to acquire the property to create the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. Today, the preserve totals nearly 6,000 acres, supports a diverse wildlife population, offers visitors a variety of activities and is a primary destination for Bay Area nature-lovers. Some of the fascinating sites that can be explored here include original mine openings, a cemetery and a visitor center, which contains displays, photographs, videos, brochures and artifacts depicting the park's mining eras. The preserve contains some 65 miles of trails. One of these, the Black Diamond Railroad Trail, is a short rail-trail that can be explored by bicycle or on foot. Its length and slight incline makes it ideal for people of all ages. There is no shade along the trail, though, so be sure to bring plenty of water and protection from the sun. The trailhead is located at the south end of the main parking lot, where there are restrooms, water fountains and literature about the preserve and its history. Once you step onto the rail-trail, you are surrounded by the expansive Mt. Diablo foothills. On the left is a steep canyon covered with lush green grass and bright yellow wildflowers in spring. On the right is a ravine and Somersville Road, which parallels the rail-trail its entire length. Look beyond the road for a vista of rolling hills, whe
State: CA Length: 1.25 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Bol Park Bike Path is a charmer that threads through a peaceful neighborhood in the hills south of San Francisco. At its heart is Bol Park, a strip of playground and lawn laid alongside Matadero Creek. DIFFICULTY: Easy FOOD: No food is available along the trail, but you can find restaurants and grocery stores in nearby area of Palo Alto. REST ROOMS: There are no rest rooms available along the route. TRANSPORTATION: Contact the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority by calling (408) 321-2300, or writing 3331 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95134-1906. The web site is www.vta.org RENTALS: No rentals are available along the trail.
State: CA Length: 1.90 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
The Calero Creek Trail runs between Singer Park and Santa Teresa County Park. The trail is paved between Los Alamitos Creek and Harry Road (0.7 mile) and has a gravel surface between Harry Road and the Stile Ranch Trail (1.2 miles) at Santa Teresa Park. From Harry Road east the trail winds through a narrow wooded corridor and skirts the edge of agricultural fields, while the western portion is more suburban, as it follows Camden Avenue. Near Singer Park the Calero Creek Trail meets the Los Alamitos Creek Trail.
State: CA Length: 2.85 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Centennial Way Trail follows the path of the BART line between San Bruno station and South San Francisco station. The BART, of course, runs underground while the trail doesn't. The 10-foot-wide trail is paved with asphalt and has 2-foot granite shoulders. It meanders through a low-maintenance landscaped area, with wildflowers, and is lit for night use. Street crossings are made easy with pedestrian signals at Spruce and Chestnut avenues and in-ground flashing lights at Orange Avenue. Via a spur trail at Orange Avenue you can connect to downtown South San Francisco; take Orange to the canal and head southeast along the canal Street. You can also pick up the spur at Antoinette Lane and head southeast along the canal to downtown.
State: CA Length: 27.50 miles Surface:
From Central Valley Rails to Trails Foundation website:
The proposed trail will provide a safe location for hiking, biking, and equestrian travel, and will provide access to numerous planned and existing trails and parks in both Sacramento and San Joaquin Counties.
State: CA Length: 13.80 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Contra Costa Canal Trail forms a horseshoe shape route, traversing through the urban and neighborhood landscape of Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek and Concord. The trail follows the canal of the same name, passing through several parks and also linking other regional trails: California State Riding and Hiking Trail, Briones to Mt. Diablo Trail and the Iron Horse Regional Trail, where they intersect just south of Contra Costa Center. The Bureau of Reclamation began building the canal in the 1930s to supply crop irrigation in what was then a rural area. The canal was completed following a delay during World War II. There are plans to connect the Contra Costa Canal Trail with the Delta de Anza Trail.
State: CA Length: 22.10 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
For most of its length, the scenic Coyote Creek Trail meanders along its namesake creek south of the city of San Jose. South of Metcalf Road, an equestrian trail parallels the paved trail. A smaller northern section (2.3 miles) near Milpitas is gravel and connects to the Highway 237 Bikeway. The main southern segment (19.3 miles) is paved and provides access to several city and county parks. A 0.5-mile segment extends from E. William Street south to Woodborough Place through William Street and Selma Olinder parks. You'll find public art along the Coyote Creek Trail, too, including one work titled "Ripple Effect and Run River Run" between Montague Expressway and Tasman Drive. Just south of Metcalf Road, a stone marker, Tamienne Monument, sits at the geographical center of the Santa Clara Valley. "Silicon Valley" is etched into it in two languages: English and binary code, befitting the valley's shift from agriculture of the land to the "farming" of high technology.
State: CA Length: 2.40 miles Surface: Dirt
Nestled between Alum Rock Canyon and the Mt. Diablo foothills, Alum Rock Park west of San Jose is California's oldest city park. From the early to mid-1900s it was a popular resort and spa, complete with an indoor swimming pool, mineral baths and a restaurant. Visitors rode a train from San Jose into the park until the late 1920s, when the railroad folded. Alum Rock Park's 2.4-mile Creek Trail follows a portion of the old tourist railroad line. It is a great family rail-trail, offering an abundance of modern facilities while maintaining its natural beauty and unique geological formations. The paved portion of the trail is wheelchair accessible. The trail begins as a dirt track with a fairly steep incline as it heads out into the park but quickly levels out. On the left are rolling hills and the Penitencia Creek, its banks blanketed with several types of fern as well as blackberry and wild rosebushes; on the right is a steep, fern-covered canyon. The scenery begins to change after about 0.5 mile, as signs of civilization emerge. You pass the shaded Quail Hollow picnic area and a campground. The surface becomes paved and smooth 1.4 miles in. Continuing on to mile 1.5, you see a visitor center that features a ranger station, picnic benches, open spaces for sports and horseshoe pits. There are two playgrounds nearby, one on each side of the visitor center. One has tot swings and is designed for smaller children. The other has larger equipment for older kids. The Youth Science Institute (YSI) is located 2 miles in. It runs summer camps for children and houses a variety of live animals for display throughout the year. Farther along on the left are several beautiful old stone bridges and small grottos. The grottos were constructed in the early 1900s to enclose the park's mineral springs. These springs were believed to possess healing properties, and their presence played a major role in the early success of Alum Rock Park. Signs posted in front of the grottos
State: CA Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Ballast, Crushed Stone
The Crocker Park Recreational Trail loops around Crocker Park businesses in the town of Brisbane. The 2.5-mile, gravel trail begins and ends on Park Lane across from the dog park, although you can pick up the trail at any place where it crosses a street. The trail occupies part of an old right-of-way of the Southern Pacific Railroad and features benches and route signage.
State: CA Length: 13 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
Note: Crystal Springs Dam crossing is closed for reconstruction. Access is from the north via the Black Mountain/Hayne Exit off I-280, west to "T" intersection, turn left (south) on the frontage road, approximately 1 mile to park. The Crystal Springs Reservoir Trails are made up of two trails: the San Andreas Trail and the Sawyer Camp Recreation Trail. Both are wide, flat, paved trails winding around the eastern shore of the Crystal Springs Reservoir. San Andreas trail extends from San Bruno Avenue on the north to the south end of San Andreas Lake, where it connects to the Sawyer Camp Trail. The Crystal Springs Reservoir Trail has easy access to Skyline Boulevard. The southerly 0.7 mile has a gravel surface and impassable by bicycles, which have to detour to the frontage road east of I-280 to get to Sawyer Camp Trail. The trail passes close to San Andreas reservoir in its northerly section and provides beautiful views. Trail managers hope to one day connect the trail to the Sweeney Ridge Trail and the San Francisco Bay Discovery Site. The Sawyer Camp Trail is 6 miles long and runs along the Shoreline of Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir to San Andreas Lake. It's the most popular trail in the San Mateo County Park system, and for good reason. It's an easily-reached, incredibly scenic trail that takes you closer to forbidden Crystal Springs Reservoir and San Andreas Lake than any other trail. The trail follows the path of the old wagon route that was the main travel lane between Half Moon Bay and San Francisco. You can get to the southern entrance by taking the Bunker Hill exit from I-280, heading west, then turning right on Skyline Boulevard. Drive over Crystal Springs Dam and look for a parking spot.
State: CA Length: 15 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Delta de Anza Regional Trail is 15 miles long, running between Willow Pass Road at Route 4 near Concord and Main Street (Rt. 4) at E. Cypress Road in Oakley. The eastern end in Oakley intersects Marsh Creek Trail. The trail also intersects the developing Mokulumne Trail by Antioch Community Park. There is a break in the trail between Neroly Road and Ridgeline Drive. The trail links neighborhoods, business districts, schools, parks and the Los Medanos Community College. In the parks you'll find plenty of rest areas, restrooms, drinking fountains and picnic areas. There are plans to extend the trail another 10 miles, including west to Martinez. The county reports that the trail is mostly wheelchair accessible, though some sections can be steep, particularly those adjacent to Los Medanos College and Marchetti Park in Pittsburg and segments on both sides of Canal Park in Antioch. The trail over the Willow Pass in the direction of Evora Road in Bay Point to Willow Pass Road in Concord is long and steep. The Delta de Anza Trail is named commemoration of the route taken by Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza during an 18th-century expedition in the region.
State: CA Length: 12 miles Surface:
The East Bay Greenway is a proposed 12-mile long, $30-35 million rail-with-trail project that will service Oakland, San Leandro, Alameda County and Hayward. This project will partially be funded by a $10.2 million TIGER II federal grant, awarded to the East Bay Regional Parks District in late 2010. It will be a classis rail-with-trail project that gets the best use from the transit corridor with both rapid transit trains and a path that connects people to the stations. Running underneath the East Bay's elevated BART tracks, as well as alongside Union Pacific rail lines, this trail will service the Fruitvale, Coliseum, San Leandro, Bay Fair and Hayward BART stations via a safe, non-motorized Class I transportation corridor. Trail surface details and maps are currently unavailable, as final logistical planning is being conducted by Urban Ecology and the Alameda County Transportation Commission. Construction is expected as early as mid 2012.
State: CA Length: 1.20 miles Surface: Gravel
The Evergreen Creek Trail follows its namesake creek between San Felipe Road and Yerba Buena Road. To the north of the gravel trail is suburbia (with a row of trees separating the trail from the houses; to the south is open space, a.k.a. Montgomery Hill Park, which has additional hiking and jogging trails.
State: CA Length: 9 miles Surface:
The partially abandoned UP tracks through Fremont offer an outstanding opportunity for an urban trail that has multiple connections to other planned and completed trails and the on street bike network. The extension of BART into the area also brings opportunities for better connectivity to transit that will increase ridership and reduce need for parking at the stations. The UPRR rail ROW is shown on the recently adopted City of Fremont Bicycle Master Plan as the Citys only north/south bicycle and pedestrian Class I route. The trail would improve bikeway continuity and connectivity to major activity centers, as well as providing connections to all major east-west roadways in the City, benefiting bicycle commuters, casual, and recreational users. In addition, portions of the trail are in the process of becoming available for conversion to trail uses, as rail use ceases. The City has completed a feasibility study showing the preferred alignment along the corridor and is now seeking the acquision, permitting, and funding to begin construction of the trail.
State: CA Length: 6.80 miles Surface: Asphalt
The paths in Golden Gate Park and along Ocean Beach provide a retreat from urban San Francisco and an important part of the growing bike network. There are other paths that meander through the park and provide good walking loops. The trail passes by the museums, sports fields, and botanic gardens that make Golden Gate Park one of the premier urban parks in the country. Bicycle route signage is clear and connects these paths to neighborhoods throughout the city. Pick up the trail at the corner of Fell and Baker for a ride through the Panhandle and then explore Golden Gate Park while hoping that the beach will have some sun when you arrive! The trail along Ocean Beach runs along the Great Highway down to the San Franciso Zoo and near San Francisco State University. Going the other way you can link into the Lands End trail and pass the Cliff House on your way to the Golden Gate bridge.
State: CA Length: 11 miles Surface: Asphalt
The northern segment of the Guadalupe River Trail runs from the Bay in Alviso beneath most roadways, including under SR 237, US Highway 101 and I-880, as it makes its way past San Jose Airport, past the Shark Tank (San Jose Pavilion) and through downtown San Jose to end at Virginia Street, just south of I-280. The northern section passes through the beautiful 250-acre Guadalupe River Park & Garden. The southern segment of the Guadalupe River Trail extends from Chynoweth Avenue, following the Blossom River, south to Lake Almaden Park. Here it links to the Los Alamitos Creek Trail.
State: CA Length: 3.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
Half Moon Bay State Park's Coastside Trail runs parallel to the Pacific Coast along what used to be the Ocean Shore Railroad. The railroad itself was in operation for just 14 years before it was driven out of business in the early 1920s by the automobile. However, the railroad had a tremendous effect on the Northern California coastline. It opened the area to agriculture, created new communities along the shoreline and made the coastal beaches prime tourist destinations. The Coastside Trail is truly a destination trail. It offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, access to several beaches and excellent nature viewing. Bird watching is quite good and a popular activity here. Red-tailed hawks, blue herons and red-winged blackbirds are spotted frequently, and large hawks can often be seen perched on benches and the trail's split-rail fence. Half Moon Bay State Beach is also home of the world-famous Mavericks, a surfing spot near Pillar Point that's visible from the trail. In winter, surfers can ride waves up to 80 feet high here. You can park at the Half Moon Bay State Beach Visitor Center for a fee and pick up the trail here. Heading north you follow the paved trail for about 2 miles in total. On your left is the coastline and on your right, the equestrian trail. Beyond this trail are views of gorgeous beachfront properties. A mile into your walk, you reach another parking lot with access to Venice Beach. The rail-trail continues for about another mile then merges into Mirada Road. If you continue walking on Mirada Road for a few minutes, you will end up at the Miramar Beach Restaurant, a bar and restaurant that overlooks the ocean. This is a great place to watch the sunset; the Miramar even posts a daily sunset schedule on its website. Heading south from the visitor center, the Pacific Ocean is on your right and the equestrian trail on your left. Beyond this horse trail are open, green fields. The trail hugs the bluff's edge here. As you head south, yo
State: CA Length: 5 miles Surface: Concrete, Dirt
The Highway 237 Bikeway parallels State Route 237 between McCarthy Boulevard in Milpitas to the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail in Santa Clara. The trail runs in two main segments on the south side of Highway 237: (1) between McCarthy Blvd and Zanker Road (unpaved path on the north side); and (2) between North First Street and the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail. Between North First Street and Zanker Road you can follow dedicated bike lanes. At Lafayette Street head north and go back under Route 237 (on a sidewalk or dedicated bike lane then make an immediate left on the Gold Street Connect, where you pick up the trail again, known here also as the Baylands Park Trail (caution, RR crossing). Cross Great America Parkway and continue on the north side of Route 237 to the San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail, which heads south. You can also continue on the main trail west to the San Francisco Bay Trail or the Calabazas Creek Trail. The Highway 237 Bikeway intersects the Coyote Creek Trail just west of McCarthy Boulevard.
State: CA Length: 4.10 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Highway 87 Bikeway follows Route 87 between Willow Street in the north and Santa Teresa Boulevard at W. Valley Freeway (Route 85) in the south. Basically, the trail forms the missing link between the two segments of the Guadelupe River Trail. Use care between Curtner Avenue and Canoas Garden Avenue where the bikeway crosses to the other side of Route 87. Travel along both avenues for a short distance is necessary.
State: CA Length: 24.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The area surrounding the Iron Horse Regional Trail has an important history as part of the San Ramon Valley's agricultural and ranching past. Today, the Iron Horse Trail connects two counties and twelve cities. It runs through quiet residential neighborhoods, lively business and commercial districts and shady greenbelts. This popular and extensively used trail roughly follows Interstate 680, beginning in the city of Concord on its northern end and passing through Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Alamo, Danville, San Ramon and Dublin before ending at the Dublin/Pleasanton BART station. A small disconnected segment runs from Santa Rita Road southeast to Busch Road; there are plans to join these segments. Plans also call for the trail to be extended farther south to Stanley Boulevard in Pleasanton, where an existing bike trail leads east to Livermore. On the north end, there are plans to continue the trail to Suisun Bay in Martinez. At the northern end, the trail begins just south of State Route 4, near the northeast corner of Buchanan Airfield in Concord. The trail nears the Pleasant Hill BART station at about mile 5. A rest stop across the street from the BART parking lot features picnic tables, a drinking fountain and benches. The northernmost part of the trail, as well as the proposed area around Suisun Bay, follows a marshy area, which is a haven for ducks and geese. As you head south, the area becomes increasingly more urban, especially nearby downtown Walnut Creek. (The Walnut Creek BART station is about a half mile off the trail). A bicycle and pedestrian overpasses spans Treat Boulevard near the Pleasant Hill BART and Ygnacio Valley Road in a congested section of Walnut Creek. South of Walnut Creek the trail passes under I-680 at Rudgear Road to the west side of the freeway. A staging area here features parking, a drinking fountain, benches and tables. From this point the trail meanders through residential areas, crossing streets numerous times
State: CA Length: 3.20 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Isabel Avenue Trail provides a N-S corridor on the western boundary of the city of Livermore. This trail primarily services adjacent neighborhoods on the eastern side of the Isabel Ave/Kitty Hawk Drive. This trail also connects to the Arroyo Mocho Trail, which provides extensive biking/walking Class I trail options throughout the city of Livermore.
State: CA Length: 1.40 miles Surface: Crushed Stone
Joe's Trail at Saratoga de Anza parallels the south side of the active railroad tracks that travel through a residential area of Saratoga, a California community just south of the San Francisco Bay. The trail is part of the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trial, which commemorates the 1775-1776 Spanish Expedition and stretches more than 1,200 miles from San Francisco to Nogales, Arizona. Joe's Trail has a decomposed granite surface and crosses two bridges over the Saratoga and Rodeo Creeks. The bridges are currently under construction, scheduled for completion in September of 2012.
State: CA Length: 7.60 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail, a 7.65-mile linear park, parallels St. Mary's Road through Lafayette and Moraga. It is intended for hiking, bicycling, and equestrian use. Coursing through the Moraga Valley, connecting Las Trampas Ridge to the Oakland Hills, and the cities of Lafayette and Moraga, this trail corridor has a rich and varied history.
State: CA Length: 2 miles Surface: Crushed Stone, Dirt
Riding high on the cliffs at North America's western edge, this San Francisco-area trail offers unbeatable views of Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean at San Francisco Bay. Add to that a chance to see old shipwrecks, historical monuments, marine animals and birds (cormorants and oystercatchers, among others), and such San Francisco landmarks as the Cliff House, Sutro Baths and the Palace of the Legion of Honor, and you have the makings of a rich rail-trail experience. Be sure to bring your camera, and stop off at the several vista points (half-circle rest areas on the oceanside of the trail). Lands End Trail has a colorful history. Gustav Sutro forged the corridor in 1888 as part of the Park and Cliff House Railway to bring San Franciscans from downtown out to the Cliff House resort and Sutro Baths that his brother, mining magnate Adolph Sutro, was building on the rugged San Francisco coast. For just 5 cents, passengers could enjoy a ride around Lands End in the railroad's open-air carriages. Today, the Cliff House, Sutro Bath and Lands End area are all part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, one of the largest urban national parks in the world. Only the ruins of the once-grand Sutro Baths remain, and you can walk downhill (toward the coast) on a side path from the north side of the Merrie Way parking lot to see them. The Cliff House, the third building with that name on this spot, is an elegant place for a drink or meal with wonderful ocean views and is a short walk from the Merrie Way parking lot; just head west (downhill) on Point Lobos Avenue about 0.25 mile. If you start from the Merrie Way parking lot, you'll see the Lands End trailhead at the north end of the lot. You wind up a slight hill, past where the Golden Gate National Park staff and volunteers have restored native vegetation along the trail route and thinned the cypress forest to open up views of the coast and of the rocky shores that have claimed more than a few unlucky sh
State: CA Length: 5.50 miles Surface: Dirt
This extremely scenic rail-trail is located in the majestic Forest of Nisene Marks State Park near Aptos, California. The park was the site of major logging operations by the Loma Prieta Lumber Company from 1883 until 1923. In the 1950s, Herman, Agnes and Andrew Marks purchased about 9,700 acres of this land, thinking the area to be rich in oil. When exploration did not produce oil, the Marks family deeded the property in 1963 to the state in honor of their mother, Nisene Marks. The deed specified that the forest must not be developed, allowing the natural regeneration process to continue. Today Nisene Marks State Park thrives, with 30 miles of hiking trails, several campsites and multiple picnic areas. The evergreens, oaks, bays and madrones that were so extensively logged years ago are now abundant throughout the park. From the Porter Family Picnic Area, you walk along a paved road for about 0.25 mile to the trailhead for the Loma Prieta Grade Trail. As you turn left onto the trail, you begin ascending into the woods, enjoying views of lovely Bridge Creek, until you reach the Porter House historic site, which was once the home of Warren Porter, former secretary for the Loma Prieta Lumber Company. Continue along the path until you reach a junction with Bridge Creek Trail. This junction marks the start of a loop trail; you can go either direction from here. If you veer left, you soon come to Hoffman Historic Site, the remains of a logging camp that operated between 1918 and 1921. You can still see a scattering of ties, cables and trestle timbers here. Beyond the camp you come to an intersection with Big Stump Gap Trail. Remain on the rail-trail here as it continues north and then makes a sharp right turn. You will pass Bridge Creek Historic Site, another historic logging camp. A short side trail here leads to Maple Falls, one of two waterfalls within Nisene Marks Park. The main trail continues through the redwoods, following the path of Bridge Creek and
State: CA Length: 4.70 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Los Alamitos Creek Trail runs along its namesake creek between Los Alamitos Park and Almaden Lake Park. Between McKean Road and Camden Avenue at Singer Park, the trail runs along both sides of the creek. It passes through a series of parks in a green space corridor among neighborhoods and business districts, paralleling Camden Avenue at the southern end. In Almaden Lake Park the trail meets up with a park trail that connects to the southern segment of the Guadalupe River Trail.
State: CA Length: 11.20 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Gravel
It is difficult to travel through suburban Santa Clara County for more than a few minutes without noticing an abundance of cyclists and runners in the area. If you are strolling to downtown Los Gatos, chances are that the biker whizzing by you is headed for the Los Gatos Creek Trail. During the week this trail sees a moderate amount of traffic, but on weekends it bustles with activity. From 20-somethings clutching their morning lattes to energetic cyclists and families walking their dogs, you'll see everyone out enjoying this path on Saturdays and Sundays. The Los Gatos Creek Trail spans 11.2 miles and passes through several cities between San Jose and Lexington Reservoir. The San Jose section is 1.9 miles, while the Campbell section is 9.3 miles. The southern portion follows a former South Pacific Coast Railroad line, which transported passengers from Santa Cruz to Alameda in the late 1800s. Beginning at the southern end at the Lenihan Dam on Lexington Reservoir the trail is unpaved dirt and gravel for the first 1.5 miles to the landmark Forbes Mill Museum, an 1854 flour mill and annex that exhibits Los Gatos area memorabilia. You will find a water fountain there but no restrooms. Los Gatos Creek is wrapped in riparian undergrowth, and the sparkling creek is lovely. The trail has a moderate incline as it goes northward and includes one short but steep climb at 1.3 miles. The surface is a bit rocky here, and only experienced cyclists will be able to ascend it without dismounting. At Main Street in Los Gatos the asphalt surface begins, and the trail leaves the rail bed to follow the creek bank. From this point the trail passes through a string of parks, including Oak Meadow, Vasona Lake County, Los Gatos Creek and Campbell, each with restrooms and parking. Starting at Los Gatos Creek Park there are trails on each side of the creek as well as loops around the ponds. The main trail, however, stays on the west bank until the overcrossing at Campbell Park
State: CA Length: 1.05 miles Surface: Concrete
Lower Silver Creek Trail, North, runs in a nearly straight line between Ocala Avenue and Abed Court. Between Foxdale Drive and Logsden Way there's a short (about 0.25) on-street connection. There are plans to extend the trail south from Ocala Avenue to Lake Cunningham Park and north from Abed Court, under I-680, following Silver Creek and passing under US 101 to Watson Park. Bridge crossings over Silver Creek are already in place at Kammerer Avenue, Lausett Avenue and at Plata Arroyo Park.
State: CA Length: 0.60 miles Surface: Concrete
The Lower Silver Creek Trail is also known as the Umbarger Walkway, which parallels Umbarger Road for just over a half mile between Plumas Drive and Tuers Road in a narrow strip of greenspace surrounded by suburbia.
State: CA Length: 3.40 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Manteca Tidewater Bikeway is a multiuse trail running north to south through the city of Manteca, California. The flat, asphalt corridor is up to 100 feet wide in places and is popular with bikers, inline skaters and walkers. There is also an adjacent 4-foot-wide crushed gravel path for runners. This pleasant urban trail connects neighborhoods on the city's southern and northern boundaries to the central business section. It also connects to various parks, including Library Park and a sports and skateboard park. Library Park features several murals highlighting important historical aspects of Manteca's culture and history. One of the best murals tells the story of the Yokut Indian tribe, the earliest known residents in the area. The trail follows the path of the old Tidewater Railway, an interurban passenger and freight rail. Today, parts of the line that still run are operated by Union Pacific, and the former Tidewater Southern Railway has one of highest percentages of interurban rail still running. The trail begins at East Lathrop Road on the north end of the city. You pass through a quiet, residential section before reaching the city sports and skateboard park, a little more than halfway through the trail. Near the skate park the trail enters downtown Manteca. From here you cross through the town, with industrial buildings on both sides. An active railroad line shares the corridor until it ends at another residential area at the southern end of the city. In 2001, the Manteca Tidewater Bikeway was one of seven recipients of a Project Award at the TRANNY Awards, which are sponsored by the California Transportation Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to recognizing outstanding transportation performance and achievement.
State: CA Length: 25 miles Surface:
From Marin County Bicycle Coalition website:
When completed, the North-South Greenway will provide an environmentally sound transportation route that will be a model for the nation for alternative transportation and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
State: CA Length: 8.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
Marsh Creek Trail follows the sinuous course of Marsh Creek through the outskirts of suburbia and among the rich farmland of Contra Costa County. The 8.5-mile paved extends between Concord Road in Brentwood and Big Break Lake, where the trail intersects Big Break Regional Trail. Where the Marsh Creek Trail crosses Cypress Lane, you can pick up the Delta de Anza Regional Trail to the west. There are plans to extend the trail south and west through Round Valley Regional Preserve and Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, for a total of 14 miles.
State: CA Length: 1.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
The Matadero Creek Trail offers beautiful views of the San Francisco Bay and Santa Cruz Mountains as it winds its way through gently rolling hills and rural countryside. The paved northern half of the trail, from Foothill Expressway to Deer Creek Road, closely follows Page Mill Road and is open to both bikers and walkers. Bikers should take note that the southern half of the trail, from Deer Creek Road to Arastradero Road, is dirt-packed and open to pedestrians only.
State: CA Length: 3.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete, Dirt
Mill Valley–Sausalito Multi-purpose Path is a convenient connection between neighborhoods, schools, shopping, restaurants and a skate park. There is also an adjacent dog park: Mill Valley. Between the skate and dog parks, on a nice day there can be all kinds of excitement and an assortment of aerobatic displays by both man and beast, alike, to enjoy. The short dirt section at the north end is just a minor neighborhood connection and can easily be omitted if you are riding a bike or skating. Otherwise, the trail is mostly asphalt and turns to concrete as the trail approaches the southern end, which parallels a fairly busy roadway. Overall, the trail gets a good mix of cyclists, walkers, joggers and skaters, so brush up on the rules of the trails before you begin. You can also access the trail by way of the ferry in Sausalito, making it possible to connect with other opportunities in San Francisco and Marin County. You could even rent a bike in San Francisco and take the ferry to Sausalito. This can make for a great day of exploring the region. Although the trail is rather short, it and the nearby shoreline and art galleries are all worth exploring. The best feature of the trail is its views of the bay, where it passes through a scenic wetland marsh. You will see many species of birds here, including the marsh wren, brown pelican and maybe even a raptor, if you are lucky. Be sure to enjoy the houseboats of Sausalito when you cruise by. Parking is available at many of the adjoining business areas and at Sycamore Avenue. The trailhead has a public restroom.
State: CA Length: 1.50 miles Surface:
From Mission Creek Bikeway and Greenbelt website:
The Mission Creek Bikeway will begin at 16th and Harrison Streets, winding around the nose of Potrero Hill, crossing 7th Street and the Caltrain tracks, continuing along the south side of the Mission Creek Channel and connecting with the new Giants stadium, and, of course, the waterfront. A spur of the bikeway will extend from the 8th and Townsend traffic circle along Townsend Street, connecting with the Caltrain station, where a BikeStation is also being planned.
The Mission Creek Bikeway will serve as a critical transportation link in a city where 1 of 25 adults relies on a bicycle for daily commuting. With one end in the Mission area - a densely populated neighborhood popular among bicyclists - and the other in South of Market (SOMA) - a quickly changing area begging for greater transportation choices, the Bikeway bridges an important gap in the city's Bicycle Network. Once completed, a person will be able to ride a bike from most locations in the Mission district to most locations downtown and in SOMA and Mission Bay almost entirely on comfortable, convenient bike paths and bike lanes.
State: CA Length: 3.95 miles Surface:
From the City of Modesto Web site:
Phase III of the Virginia Corridor Trailway project is currently under construction. This phase of the trail begins at College Avenue, north to Roseburg; and from Orangeburg to Granger Avenue. This will make a total of 1-3/4 miles of completed trail. Future phases of the Virginia Corridor include Phase V, a bike/pedestrian bridge over Briggsmore Avenue, and Phases VI- VIII, (from Bowen to just north of Pelandale) a bike/pedestrian crossing at Pelandale and possibly one at Standiford Ave. These future phases have been master-planned and are awaiting funding to go into construction drawings and specifications.
State: CA Length: 300 miles Surface:
From www.mc2ct.org: The Mokelumne Coast to Crest Trail (MCCT) will be a scenic, 300-mile non-motorized, multi-use trail extending from the Pacific Ocean near San Francisco Bay to the crest of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Users, including hikers, bikers and equestrians, will experience diverse outdoor settings as they traverse the width of the state, including the urban greenbelt along the San Francisco Bay, the protected open space and parkland of the East Bay, the rural landscape of the San Joaquin River Delta and Mother Lode Country, and the forested slopes along the Mokelumne River Canyon and High Sierra. Martinez Shoreline Regional Park in western Contra Costa County and the Pacific Crest Trail at Ebbetts Pass in the High Sierra form the western and eastern anchor points. The planning area for the trail embraces a wide cross-section of Northern California from San Francisco Bay to the Sierra Nevada just south of Lake Tahoe. The trail will pass through the cities of Martinez, Concord, Pittsburg, Antioch, and Stockton, as well as Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, Contra Costa, El Dorado and San Joaquin counties. Generally following the route of the Mokelumne Aqueduct and the North Fork of the Mokelumne River, the trail crosses public lands under diverse jurisdictions, including various state and federal agencies, public utility and railroad corridors, local and regional parks, as well as some parcels of private property. For more information about this extensive, long term trail project, please see the Trail Web site (www.mc2ct.org).
State: CA Length: 18 miles Surface: Asphalt
Winding along the Pacific coast, the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail (a.k.a. the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail and Monterey Bay Coastal Bike Trail) offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and a great way to tour the city while enjoying the outdoors. This wonderful coastal rail-trail currently extends 18 miles from Pacific Grove to Castroville and is regarded as one of the most scenic long trails in California. The trail follows the former Southern Pacific Railroad line, which was once used to transfer goods between the historic fishing town of Monterey and the rest of northern California. Beginning in Pacific Grove at the Lovers Point Park (the southern end of the trail), you will want to take a picture of the beautiful rocky shoreline to the west. But don't put your camera away yet—the beautiful views continue, and there are many photo opportunities along the trail of beach scenes, otters, boats, kayakers and more. After 0.3 mile you come to a mural portraying the history of the area around the trail. About a mile from the northern end, you reach Cannery Row. Made famous by John Steinbeck, this area offers many restaurants, as well as shopping, lodging and entertainment for all ages. After a string of street crossings, you arrive at Monterey Bay Aquarium. Recognized as one of the best in the world, the aquarium exhibits a wide array of sea creatures, from a giant octopus to nearly two dozen species of shark. Just beyond the aquarium, roughly 1.5 miles into the journey, you reach Fisherman's Shoreline Park and San Carlos Beach. San Carlos is a popular destination for diving, and you might see some shore divers preparing for an underwater adventure. The trail continues toward a smaller beach, where you can view sailing and fishing boats scattered throughout the bay. At the 2-mile mark you come to Fisherman's Wharf, with its restaurants, shops and great views of the ocean. The wharf is probably the most popular destination on the trail be
State: CA Length: 0.40 miles Surface: Dirt, Grass
The Montgomery Hill Trail is a short dirt trail traversing Montgomery Hill Park, an undeveloped green space in San Jose. The trail offers nice views of the surrounding area and links Yerba Buena Creek Trail with Evergreen Creek Trail.
Nimitz Way in Tilden Regional Park follows the ridge between Wildcat Creek and the San Pablo Reservoir on the northern outskirts of Berkeley. The paved 4-mile trail utilizes an access road to a missile base that was decommissioned in the 1970s. It's not very steep with a typical grade of 3 percent for most of the trail. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the reservoir, the San Francisco Bay and Mt. Diablo. You may even see a hawk, golden eagle or other raptor.
State: CA Length: 5.30 miles Surface: Asphalt
Named for the Ohlone Indians who once lived in the area, this trail doubles as a commuting corridor and a recreation destination for the cities of Berkeley, Albany and El Cerrito. While the Ohlone Greenway is certainly an urban trail, it weaves together a number of parks and green spaces, community gardens and interpretive kiosks to create a pleasurable and informative trail experience. The greenway's smooth asphalt surface makes it suitable for a variety of users. The Ohlone Greenway begins at the east end of Ohlone Park in Berkeley and runs westward. Soon after setting off you reach a dog park. Like a number of progressive ideas coming from Berkeley, this park is the first of its kind in the country. Beyond the dog park, the trail corridor opens up to a width of about 100 feet. This broad linear park hosts a number of attractions, including a playground, a community garden, exercise equipment, interactive public art and a variety of trees and foliage. This section of the trail gets quite a bit of traffic. As the trail exits the park and crosses Sacramento Street near the North Berkeley BART station, it becomes an on-street bike path. Make a right on Acton Street and reconnect with the off-street path near the corner of Acton and Virginia streets. You'll pass a community garden and interpretive signs about the trail and the Ohlone people. For several miles after this point, you will be riding beside or underneath the elevated BART tracks. The trail, with separate cycling and walking paths in most sections, runs through the towns of Albany and El Cerrito, passing the El Cerrito Plaza and El Cerrito del Norte BART stations. From willows to mature oaks, trees line much of the greenway, enhancing the natural setting and reminding you of the diversity of Northern California's flora. At the trail's end you reach San Pablo Avenue at Baxter Creek Gateway Park in El Cerrito. The park, a restored urban riparian area, features an amazing diversity of plants an
State: CA Length: 3 miles Surface: Concrete
The Ohlone Loop Trail offers a birder's paradise in a wetland area of Watsonville on California's central coast. Its location, bordering a residential area, provides easy access for residents to experience the natural habitats of the Struve Slough. Along the 3-mile paved pathway, you might see owls, falcons, hawks, ducks and other waterfowl or raptors. At the northern end of the trail, cross Main Street to pick up Upper Struve Slough Trail for further exploring of the scenic waterway. Or, explore a neighboring marsh along the Watsonville Slough Trail.
State: CA Length: 1.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
This path dissects Weston Ranch diagonally in between French Camp Road and the San Joaquin River. It ends on the opposite side of Van Buskirk Municipal Park along the banks of the river. Due to its location in a residential neighborhood, there is little amenities for parking, water, and restrooms; therefore, it is important that one provides their own access to water in this warm, inland region.
State: CA Length: 1.90 miles Surface: Dirt, Woodchips
The Southern Pacific Railroad Right of Way passes through residential neighborhoods on the west side of Pacific Grove, providing a nice walking and biking spot for residents and visiting tourists to the area. The trail is still owned by the railroad and is an unimproved dirt path with wood chips in some locations. The trail passes through the Municipal Golf course, crosses Lighthouse Blvd. and then runs through the forested neighborhoods before crossing Sunset Dr. A connecting trail leads to 17 Mile Drive along the Spanish Bay Golf Course. The trail provides access to Asilomar Conference Center and other trails that lead to the beach. There are no facilities along the trail and parking is limited to street parking, which is plentiful in the area.
State: CA Length: 2.80 miles Surface: Asphalt, Gravel
The Penitencia Creek Trail follows its namesake creek through a suburban greenbelt in northeast San José. On the northeastern end, the trail passes by a series of percolation ponds, and you can take a side trip along dirt paths around them. Much of the rest of the trail is paved, although midway along the trail you come to Berryessa Park, which has a 1-mile-long paved loop, children's playground, restrooms, water fountain, community center and a fenced-off duck pond (please don't feed the birds). Berryessa Park is adjacent to Piedmont Middle School, where you'll find a track and a ball field. Penitencia Creek, which is shaded and beautiful, is the southern border of Berryessa Park. Inside the south end of Berryessa Park, about 30 feet from the creek, is the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley, which rehabilitates injured and sick wild animals. About 1.5 miles up Penitencia Road is Alum Rock Park, worth a visit. Use caution at all road crossings.
State: CA Length: 5.38 miles Surface: Asphalt
Quarry Lakes Recreational Area provides users with a wide variety of recreational activities. In addition to its several miles of biking and walking paths, the park also features boating, swimming, fishing, picnicking and beach sports. Dog walkers are welcomed into the park under certain conditions (see website for further information). Quarry Lakes Recreational Area is conveniently located off of the San Francisco Bay Trail's Coyote Hills and Alameda Creek extension. If driving, the park has a sizable parking lot with all the amenities to make your day of recreation exhausting and fun.
Beginning in 1904, the Atchison-Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad (AT&SF) carried freight through the city of Richmond, reaching its height during World War II when Richmond became a national leader of wartime industry and the woman's labor movement. This same corridor, which has sat unused in the heart of Richmond for more than 25 years, is being transformed into the Richmond Greenway and a model urban trail. The Richmond Greenway is a three-mile community bicycle and pedestrian rail-trail that brings 32 new acres of vibrant open space to a densely populated, underserved community with few recreational opportunities and scarce green space. The Richmond Greenway also provides pedestrian and bicycle access to other regional trails, and makes key connections with community resources and public transportation.
State: CA Length: 70 miles Surface:
The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) project's main goal is provide transit access to the underserved north coast areas. Although the bulk of this plan involves the creation of a north-south rail line servicing areas between Larkspur and Cloverdale, it also is heavily in favor of non-motorized transit. Along the entirety of its track, SMART is dedicated to installing a rail-with-trail system to service those who would prefer a non-motorized, active form of transportation. Even as costs for the SMART project begin to mount, they are unwavering in their stance toward keeping their rail-with-trail part of the plan. Like the SMART train, the pathway will service each station and provide 75 miles of Class I pathways. The project is set to begin limited service in 2014, with full completion of rail-with-trail and service by 2029.
The Sabercat Creek Trail can be found along its tree-lined namesake waterway in the Mission San Jose community of Fremont, a coastal California city off the San Francisco Bay. The 2-mile paved pathway runs through a former archaeological dig site, where thousands of fossil specimens have been collected, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, wolves, giant sloths and cave bears. Near its eastern end, Mission San Jose Park offers restrooms, picnic tables, a playground and athletic facilities.
The Airport to Hunters Point section of the San Francisco Bay Trail (SFBT) stretches from San Francisco International Airport in the south to India Basin in the north. The trail is in a few disconnected segments and there are plans to bridge the gaps. The southern segment, called SamTrans Peninsula, is much more urban and you'll likely encounter business folks commuting along the trail or taking a break from work. Near the San Mateo County Transit Authorities maintenance facility you'll find a recreational trail and parcourse. The next segment north begins in the back of the Costco parking lot along San Bruno Creek, which then merges with Colma Creek. The trail crosses a bridge and then follows the creek to the Bay. From here to San Bruno Park interpretive signs, benches and picnic tables enhance the trail. At the 33-acre Point San Bruno Park you'll find a sandy beach for swimming and a fishing pier. Farther north, Oyster Point Marina Park has public parking and a rocky shoreline popular with shore fisherman. Past the marina is another sandy public beach. From Oyster Point the trail goes to Oyster Cove and then into the city of Brisbane, ending at Sierra Point. The Candlestick Point Park section does not link directly to the southern segment but can be accessed by roads. Next to Candlestick Park, Candlestick Point Park has lawns, picnic tables with wind protection and recreation trails. It boasts panoramic views of the Bay, East Bay Hills and San Bruno Mountain. The last section starts on the north side of Hunters Point shipyard at the India Basin Open Space Preserve. The trail heads to India Basin Shoreline Park and ends at Heron Head Park. In the winter migrating birds are abundant in the marshes. Community groups are restoring native plants here, too.
State: CA Length: 31 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt, Gravel
The Alameda Oakwood section of the San Francisco Bay Trail (SFBT) consists of several short segments, many of which are linked by on-road bike lanes. The route starts at Swan Way and Doolittle Drive just north of Oakland Airport. There are two routes on both sides of the Airport Channel. If you go to the east of the channel you will reach Arrowhead Marsh and San Leandro Creek. There is a small park at the marsh with picnic areas and a boardwalk to view wildlife. Continue north along the Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline. West of the channel along a mix of developed and undeveloped trail you will reach Bay Farm Island, with a chain of lagoons and several community parks. The most notable is Shoreline Park, which offers stunning views of San Francisco's skyline and the surrounding bay. A greenbelt encompasses the perimeter of the peninsula. From here, go over the bike/ped bridge to Robert Crown Memorial State Beach, a peaceful place to watch a variety of birds. You will then come to Crab Cove, where you can see clear across the bay to San Mateo County. Oakland's Jack London Square is the perfect place from which to explore and is easily accessed from the trail. You can catch the ferry to San Francisco here, have a bite to eat, enjoy the historical statues and murals or simply admire the views. From here you can use on-street bike lanes to connect to Middle harbor Shoreline Park and Portview Park, perfect for family outings. The Hayward Shoreline section of the SFBT begins at the ramp at the base of the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center along the slough trail. Here you'll find wetlands teeming with birdlife and small mammals, as well as a network of trails throughout the sloughs and marshes. The levee roads around the ponds, however, are not open to the public. After about 1 mile, the trail reaches the bay, loops around the end of a pond and heads north. It eventually goes inland around a channel. At the fork, the right trail leads farther
State: CA Length: 24 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Carquinez Straight & Vallejo section of the San Francisco Bay Trail (SFBT) is 20 miles in Vallejo, Benicia, Crockett and Martinez. Trails start on the eastern side of Mare Island Strait, and various trails run around Carquinez Strait. There are two ways to cross the Carquinez Strait by foot or bike. The first is to cross over on the Carquinez bridge, which connects Vallejo and Crockett. The second is to cross Benicia Martinez bridge. When completed, the Carquinez Strait Loop Trail will be 50-miles long. The Napa River section of the SFBT has two spurs. A 2.5-mile trail runs along the river in JFK Memorial Park, a 350-acre public park with picnic tables, athletic fields, 18-hole golf course, playground and boat launch. Another section is located south of Napa in American Canyon. This 1.5-mile trail is in Community Park, which has restrooms, baseball fields, picnic tables with barbeques and a playground.
State: CA Length: 25.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Gravel
Part of the Fremont section of the San Francisco Bay Trail (SFBT) runs inland along city streets through neighborhoods and industrial areas without much of a view of the bay. The exception is a small segment along Fremont Boulevard in Fremont—Coyote Creek Lagoon. The 4-mile trail is wide and flat, making for a good family ride or walk. The marshes hum with birdlife and you can fish along Coyote Creek just before it enters the lagoon. The Coyote Hills and Alameda Creek sections of the SFBT incorporates the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, 25,902 acres around the South Bay from Redwood City to Fremont. It's the largest urban wildlife refuge in the country, and your ride or walk through the trails here will offer plenty of bird watching. You can also fish from Dumbarton pier and stop by the visitor center in Freemont to learn more. Within the refuge, take the Tidelands Trail, beginning from the visitor center and climbing to the top of the hill. An overlook offers spectacular views. The Coyote Hills Trails reach only 291 feet at Red Hill Summit but provide panoramic views of the Bay Area. The steep Red Hill Trail runs down the spine of the hills and intersects the Nike, Soaproot and Glider Hill trails. The Alameda Creek Trail allows recreational access to the levees along the creek and flood control channel. The trail runs on both sides of the creek and the Alameda Creek Flood Control Channel, from Niles Canyon to San Francisco Bay. The trail on each side of Alameda Creek is about 12 miles long. The south-side trail is paved, while the north-side trail is mostly unpaved and favored by equestrians. Both sides traverse densely-populated areas and are heavily used. For more details about these SFBT sections, visit the Association of Bay Area Governments.
State: CA Length: 33.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Dunbarton Bridge to Bayfront Park section of the San Francisco Bay Trail (SFBT) consists of several disconnected segments. Plans to connect them are in the works and will result in more than 30 continuous miles of trail, stretching from the Dumbarton Bridge to San Francisco International Airport. There are also plans to connect this section with SFBT segments in East Bay. This paved path is great for walkers, cyclists, skaters and bird-watchers. The trail meanders through wetlands and offers breathtaking views of the bay. Journey across the open waters of the San Francisco Bay as you ride over the Dumbarton Bridge. Stop by an observation deck in Redwood shores to view the diverse wildlife that call these marshes home. Another highlight of this trail is Coyote Point Park, which connects into Seal Point Park through Shoreline Park in San Mateo. Coyote Point Park is a popular windsurfing spot and features a large grove of eucalyptus.
State: CA Length: 22.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The East Palo Alto to San Jose section of the San Francisco Bay Trail (SFBT) begins at the Ravenswood Open Space Preserve and meanders through the Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve and the Lucy Evans Nature Interpretive Center. From here the trail continues to Shoreline Park and Lake in Mountain View, where the trail follows levees. In Sunnyvale the trail returns to land, continuing through Sunnyvale Baylands Park and ending at Lafayette St in San Jose. Future trail projects will close gaps and take the trail into the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge and Alviso Marina County Park. The area once consisted of salt ponds that now are being restored to wetlands. Known among birders for its ideal habitat, the area boasts numerous migrating, breeding and wintering bird species. Amenities include benches, interpretive signs and viewing scopes for wildlife.
State: CA Length: 27 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Emeryville to Richmond section of the San Francisco Bay Trail forms a nearly unbroken path between San Pablo and Emeryville. The trail links to numerous parks along the bay, including throughout Richmond's southern shoreline, connecting Point Isabel with Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline.
This project will connect the three isolated segments of trail that are already complete in the area to form a continuous trail along the Bay alongside the active UP and Amtrak rail lines. The project to connect the Pinole Shores to Bayfront Park section is currently being designed for a long bridge that will pass over the tracks and land in Bayfront Park. The Hercules section will be completed as the development there is built out and the developers construct and dedicate the trail to the park district.
State: CA Length: 5.80 miles Surface: Asphalt, Concrete
The San Francisco Embarcadero follows the path of the old State Belt Railroad, which transferred cargo from ships to main line railroads and cars onto ferries for trips across the bay. The tracks were extended through a tunnel under Fort Mason for construction of the World Expo and used by the Army during WWII. The tunnel is closed, but the trail is routed up over the hill and back down to the flats near Chrissy Field. The area is crowded with tourists and locals out to enjoy walking, running, and biking along the bay and green space areas of the city. Serious cyclists will want to use the bike lanes on the adjacent Embarcadero.
State: CA Length: 2.70 miles Surface: Asphalt
This trail along the San Joaquin River and French Camp levees gives access to the riparian areas south of Stockton from the Weston Ranch neighborhoods. It connects to the PG&E Greenbelt for a potential loop. There is limited access to the trail at Abruzzi Court, William Moss Boulevard and Carolyn Weston Boulevard. The route is exposed with no shade, so bring water and sunscreen.
State: CA Length: 3.70 miles Surface: Asphalt
The San Lorenzo Riverway Trail follows both sides of the river through downtown Santa Cruz, a California beach town on the shores of Monterey Bay. Multiple pedestrian bridges, including a former railroad trestle, allow easy access to the amenities along either bank. A highlight of the route is San Lorenzo Park, a pleasant place to picnic and watch ducks on the pond. A playground and restrooms can also be found here. A little further south, you'll arrive at a small neighborhood park called Mimi de Marta. At the end of the trail on the western side, you can also connect to the West Cliff Drive Bicycle Path to access the popular seaside amusement park called the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
State: CA Length: 32 miles Surface:
In early 2011, Santa Cruz County was approved funding from the California Transportation Commission to purchase the 31-mile corridor from Union Pacific linking Watsonville and Davenport. This new ownership will give the county the ability to begin development on their long-desired rail-with-trail in addition to a commuter or excursion train. The line that has long been proposed as a rail-with-trail project and could link in with the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail to provide a 50 mile long active transportation and recreation corridor along the scenic Monterey Bay. Local advocates with the Friends of the Rail Trail and People Power will keep pushing to get teh trail constructed along the rails for commuters and recreational use.
State: CA Length: 1.50 miles Surface: Asphalt, Gravel
Saratoga Creek Trail follows the winding course of the creek between just south of I-280 (Junipero Serra Freeway) and Saratoga Creek Park. The trail parallels the Lawrence Expressway/County Route G2 through a strip of greenway, passing through Tantau Park, Murdoch Park and Saratoga Creek Park. The trail is paved between its northern endpoint and the south end of Murdoch Park. In this section between the park and neighboring elementary school, the trail takes two routes (one is paved and the other is gravel). The trail is also gravel between the south end of Murdoch Park and the trail's southern endpoint at English Drive.
State: CA Length: 1.40 miles Surface: Asphalt, Crushed Stone
Tucked in the quiet Oakland hills neighborhood of Montclair, the Shepherd Canyon Trail (a.k.a. Montclair Railroad Trail) is a popular community rail-trail that has come to symbolize the power of community activism. The rail right-of-way, which was once used by Sacramento Northern Railroad as part of a regional interurban electric rail system, was at risk of becoming State Route 77 during the 1970s. Community activists and visionary local officials prevented the highway from being constructed through Shepherd Canyon and instead created the trail to preserve open space and encourage alternative modes of transportation. The trail begins in quaint Monclair Village near an assortment of cafes, shops and restaurants that you may want to visit before or after your time on the trail. Minutes after entering the trail, you are enveloped in a canopy of oak and eucalyptus trees, distanced from the hustle and bustle of the village. Shepherd Canyon is a popular neighborhood trail, with a healthy mix of dog walkers, parents pushing strollers, cyclists, joggers and folks just out for a stroll. Many segments of the trail are lined with houses, and it's apparent that the trail has been adopted as a community amenity and treasure. There are also a number of unpaved side trails for further exploring. Farther along the trail, the Snake Road overpass bridge is where a Sacramento Northern trestle once stood. Immediately after crossing the bridge, an open area with benches and a nice vista of the Oakland hills makes for an ideal spot to take in the ambience and watch trail users go by. The trail gradually climbs up the canyon, with a steeper section for the last 0.5 mile. The trail ends at the intersection of Saroni Drive and Shepherd Canyon Drive. Cyclists looking for a longer ride can continue on Shepherd Canyon Drive and connect with Skyline Boulevard, a popular on-road cycling route.
Silver Creek Valley Trail follows its namesake creek and paralleling Silver Creek Valley Road. The passes through a country club neighborhood and through open space over a steep hill. The trail offers nice views of the creek and hillsides, branching into two segments at its southern end. The trail forks at Farnsworth Drive and Silver Creek Valley Road, each segment following the respective roads. The eastern fork ends at San Felipe Road; the western segment ends at Hellyer Avenue. Segments of the forked trail are steep: south of the Silver Creek Valley Country Club and also between Silver Oak Elementary School and Farnsworth Drive.
State: CA Length: 4.80 miles Surface: Asphalt
The trail in Mountain View extends south from its connection to the Bay Trail in Shoreline park, past La Avenida trailhead, under Highway 101, past Whisman School and Park, under Middlefield Rd., past Creekside Park, under Hwy 85, over Central Expressway, past Landel's School over Highway 237 past the Yuba Drive trailhead, under El Camino Real, through a large meadow, where it now ends after crossing the creek to Sleeper Avenue. Cupertino has now added a 0.7 mile section of multi-use trail, made of permeable concrete, that runs north along the creek from McClellan Road, then past the 4-H farm and community gardens in McClellan Ranch nature preserve and ending (for now) at Blackberry Farm recreational park! The trail runs through tidal marshlands and natural riparian habitats, providing for recreation and educational opportunities. The trail is regularly used for bicycling, bird watching, commuting, dog walking, education, hiking, jogging, nature walks, running, scootering, roller and inline skating, skateboarding, striding, and walking.
State: CA Length: 3.90 miles Surface: Asphalt, Dirt
This system of trails is located in beautiful Sweeney Ridge, a prime bicycling and hiking area in San Mateo county. From the trailhead in the Crestmoor neighborhood of San Bruno, a paved path ascends two miles to the top of the ridge, gaining 500 feet of elevation in the process. Views are almost immediate and feature the San Andreas Reservoir as well as the San Francisco Bay and the East Bay Hills. San Bruno Mountain looms imposingly over the bay, while airplanes take off every few seconds from the San Francisco Airport. From the top of the ridge, a few strategically placed benches invite the traveler to pause and take in the views. Montara Mountain, Pacifica, and the ocean are visible on the other side of the ridge. The coastal scrub habitat present throughout the area harbors mountain lions, bobcats, rabbits, voles, and shrews, while providing a bloom of wildflowers in the spring. While the trail becomes dirt near the Nike Missile Site, the signed Mori Ridge Trail can be followed all the way down to Highway One. If one wishes, the trail can be extended further by making a somewhat hazardous crossing of Hwy One to enter the Mori Point coastal trail system. Fog and wind can be an issue on this exposed ridge, especially on the side facing the coastline. Check the weather before heading over and make sure to always bring an extra layer, even on seemingly gorgeous days. The paved portion of the trail runs from the trailhead up to the intersection at the top of the ridge that features a bathroom. There's another paved portion on Sweeney Ridge Trail that runs from the intersection to the Nike Missile Site. These paved sections are about ten feet wide and excellent for bicycle riding. The rest of the trails are moderately strenous dirt trails.
State: CA Length: 3 miles Surface:
The Three Creeks Trail will provide a critical link between the Los Gatos Creek Trail, Guadalupe River Trail, and Coyote Creek Trail through urban San Jose. The City is currently purchasing the western portion of the corridor which will connect the Los Gatos Creek and Guadalupe River Trails. From Save Our Trails The Three-Creeks Trail is envisioned as a multi-use trail running over a former Union Pacific railroad line stretching from Lonus near Lincoln out to Kelley Park. This trail is sometimes called the Willow Glen Spur trail after the name of the railroad line. This line was abandoned for use in 2000. Union Pacific removed the rails in 2004. The City of San Jose Parks Department 2000 strategic plan envisioned the purchase and conversion of this land for trail use. In the intervening years some of the land has been purchased by other landowners, and is threatened in other ways. It is our goal to assist local government in creating a workable trail on this property.
State: CA Length: 2.60 miles Surface: Asphalt, Ballast
If you're looking for a gentle rail-trail in Marin County that offers stunning views of both San Francisco Bay and Mt. Tamalpais, the Tiburon Historical Trail is for you. Known alternately as the Tiburon Bike Path and Tiburon Linear Park, the trail begins at Blackie's Pasture, a scenic landing named after a celebrated swaybacked, retired cavalry horse named "Blackie" that once roamed here. Soon after beginning the trail you pass the coastal mudflats of Richardson Bay, transition zones between land and sea that host a wide variety of plants and wildlife. A bird—and birder's—paradise, Richardson Bay hosts more than 1 million migratory birds every year, along with a diverse mix of year-round residents, including great blue herons, snowy egrets and red-tailed hawks. Breathtaking views of the bay start here, and they stay with you for the remainder of the trail. The Tiburon Historical Trail passes a number of playgrounds, small parks and playing fields, so it's family-friendly and a great destination for a picnic or afternoon outing. It's also popular with cyclists and joggers, and with a paved section for cyclists and a wide dirt shoulder for walkers and joggers, there's ample room for both. The trail runs along the coast through Tiburon and into Belvedere. Now among the most exclusive communities in the San Francisco Bay Area, both had humble beginnings. In the early 1900s, Tiburon was a blue-collar railroad town, with cargo trains running daily. One of the railroad's "most famous deliveries" was Al Capone, who was carried by train to Alcatraz in 1934. Belvedere, meanwhile, once hosted the ever-pungent McCollam Fish Factory. At about mile 2, the path becomes an on-street bike lane along Tiburon Boulevard. Continue into downtown Tiburon and the trail's end in Shoreline Park at the ferry terminal. Here you'll find more great views of the bay, a host of restaurants and shops and the perfect spot to watch the sun set. The terminal is also a great la
State: CA Length: 0.90 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Upper Silver Creek Trail courses through Silver Creek Linear Park, offering a nice play area and picnicking at the southern end and tennis courts and a basketball court at the northern end. Although the trail is short, it heads up hill from north to south, which can challenge some trail users.
State: CA Length: 2.50 miles Surface: Asphalt
The Upper Struve Slough Trail is part of a network of trails running through Watsonville's wetlands, offering a natural, outdoor experience and birding hotspot right in the heart of an urban area. The trail begins on the north side of Main Street and continues north along the Struve Slough, switching from bank to bank. Trail spurs lead to Hope Drive and Montebello Road, offering easy neighborhood access. The waterway is 5 miles long; explore its southern end on the other side of Main Street along the Ohlone Loop Trail. Or, continue on a neighboring marsh along the Watsonville Slough Trail.
State: CA Length: 2.80 miles Surface: Concrete, Gravel
The Watsonville Slough Trail follows its namesake waterway through a residential area of the city. It's part of a system of trails in a wetland area abundant with birds; you might see ducks, cormorants, pelicans, herons, egrets, hawks or many others. The trail ends at the entrance to Ramsay Park, which offers a nature center, restrooms, picnic areas, playgrounds and athletic facilities. West of the trail, you'll find the Upper Struve Slough Trail and the Ohlone Loop Trail, which you can use to explore the neighboring Struve Slough.
The West Cliff Drive Bicycle Path is just over 3 miles long, but, with its gorgeous backdrop of ocean waves and dramatic cliffs, you'll wish it was longer. The fairly flat, paved trail winds its way along the southern coastline of Santa Cruz. It begins at the San Lorenzo Riverway Trail and travels west along the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a popular seaside amusement park, and the Santa Cruz Wharf, a tourist hub offering fishing, boating, dining and shopping opportunities, as well as beach access.
State: CA Length: 0.70 miles Surface: Asphalt, Gravel
The Yerba Buena Creek Trail follows its namesake creek through Evergreen Park behind the community center, paralleling Yerba Buena Road and Park Estates Way.