Take This Hidden Coastal Trail In Northern California For An Absolutely Breathtaking Experience
Did you know that there is an old stretch of Highway 1 that is now only open to pedestrians and cyclists? It’s called the Devil’s Slide Trail and is located in San Mateo County between Pacifica and Montara. If you are a fan of the Pacific Coast Highway (aren’t we all in Northern California?), then you absolutely have to check out this one of a kind trail! There’s nothing like it anywhere else in the states.
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The trail was once part of a stretch of California State Route 1 that was famous for closures thanks to rock slides and other perils. In 2013, the Tom Lantos Tunnels were opened to provide a safer route through this steep terrain.
The 1.3-mile long Devil's Slide Trail opened on March 27, 2014 for pedestrians and bicyclists, taking over the paved route. The total cost to convert the highway to a trail was US $1,991,525.
The trail gets its name from this iconic landmark. It's a steep, rocky coastal promontory located right on the coast. It's recognizable by its steep, eroded slopes and natural gradients that range between 30 and 50 degrees. They drop straight into the ocean.
There are helpful and interesting signs located along the trail, as well. They inform visitors about the natural history and other trivia related to the area.
Pictured here is some decomposed granite located along the Devil's Slide Trail. The route winds through stunning cliffs and offers constant coastal views.
This little dandelion is an example of the fun flora here. You'll also see viewfinders and benches along the way. It's a great place to really relax and take it all in.
Don't be surprised to see fog here at any point in the year, either. The full length of the trail is paved and mellow, making it much more accessible than other hiking spots along the coast.
Curious how to find this stunning spot? Plug 5981 California Coastal Trail, Pacifica, CA 94044 into your GPS. You can access the trail from one of two small parking lots located on either side of the tunnel anout 2.5 miles south of Pacifica. Parking fills up quick in the summer months so make sure to get there early if you want to find a spot.
Time to start planning that trip to the coast to take in that one of a kind view today! What other spectacular trails have you taken along the California coastline? Share it with us on Facebook.
Jill is a freelance writer from a small Northern California town and lives in the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you have an idea for an Only In Northern California story, email her at [email protected]
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