Community Corner
Now Open: Take in Breathtaking Pacific Ocean Views Via Devil's Slide Trail [PHOTOS]
Devil's Slide Coastal Trail takes the place of an abandoned piece of state Highway 1, which runs hundreds of feet above the Pacific Ocean from the southern end of Pacifica to Montara.
Following a grand opening celebration Thursday, the new Devil's Slide Trail in San Mateo County is official open to the public.
"Once a treacherous stretch of Highway 1, the 1.3-mile trail can now be used by hikers, runners, cyclists and horseback riders," county officials said in a news release. "The paved trail features spectacular views along with benches and observation scopes."
The trial is the county's newest public park, with parking lots open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, year round.
The abandoned piece of state Highway 1 -- made obsolete when the Tom Lantos Memorial Tunnels opened to traffic in 2013 -- was given a yearlong $2-million makeover to accommodate hikers, bikers, equestrians and birdwatchers along a remote and undeveloped stretch of the California coast.
The roadway was resurfaced and three scenic overlooks with observation scopes were installed, along with informational placards that describe some of the rich bird life, marine life, geology and historical points of interest encompassed by the park.
Getting There
SamTrans riders can now take the bus to the new Devil's Slide hiking trail.
Starting Thursday, outdoor aficionados from northern San Mateo County can take SamTrans routes 100, 112 or 118 to Pacifica to connect with Route 17, and on to the new bus stops on Devil's Slide, according to SamTrans officials.
Hikers from the southern part of the county can take route 294, which connects to route 17 in Half Moon Bay.
If you prefer to drive, parking at the trail is limited, and visitors are encouraged to carpool.
A 17-space parking lot on the northern end of trail closest to Pacifica can only be entered from southbound Highway 1.
A 24-space lot on the southern end near Montara is accessible from north- and southbound Highway 1. Both lots have toilets.
No motorized vehicles of any kind are allowed on the trail. Dogs are permitted when on a six-foot leash.
Additional schedule and fare information for the new bus routes can be found online at www.samtrans.com.
More information about the Devil's Slide Coastal Trail is available online at parks.smcgov.org.
– Bay City News Service contributed to this report.
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