A rare opening of watershed land has made a 6-mile strip along the Peninsula’s Skyline Boulevard accessible for recreation.
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The Skyline Watershed Ridge Trail opens Monday, Aug. 24, to hikers, cyclists and equestrians. Here’s what to know about the formerly off-limits property.
Is there a parks fee?
Visitors must have a pass; it is available free online, lasts through the end of the year and allows the holder to bring up to six guests. The form at the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission website requires you to create an account and provide a few pieces of information (name, ZIP code, email address). Once you’ve completed it, registration confirmation is immediately sent to your email. Carry a printout or have a phone screenshot available when you go to the trail.
Where is the trailhead parking?
Off Skyline Boulevard just south of Highway 92. The lot’s gate is open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. If your car is inside when the gate closes at 6 p.m., you can get out by pressing a button.
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Are there restrooms and water fountains?
There’s no drinking water along the trail. There are restrooms at miles 2 and 5.
Are dogs allowed? What about e-bikes?
No and no.
Does the new trail connect to trails at other parks?
Though adjacent to Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve and Phleger Estate, it is strictly an out-and-back trail. It is bordered by a fence and allows no access to those parks or to Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35).
Can I continue on the trail through the watershed land north of Highway 92?
The 10-mile Fifield-Cahill Ridge Trail is open only to visitors on guided outings. Those events are on pause in August and September; when they start up again they can be booked on the SFPUC website.
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