SAN MATEO'S BIKING AND HIKING TRAILS

Popular among outdoor enthusiasts, San Mateo is home to a number of biking and hiking trails always worth exploring. Here are some of the best picks in the area.

1. Foster City

Located within San Mateo County, Foster City is home to a number of trails specifically for biking, hiking, and even skating. You can find a portion of the famous San Francisco Bay Trail running along the eastern side of Foster City -- take this and it will lead you to Redwood Shores or Coyote Point (situated on opposite ends).‍

Boardwalks and nature paths are also scattered throughout Foster City, making it a pedestrian-friendly community. Other points where you can enjoy a nice stroll or jog include Leo Ryan Park, Harbortown Pedway, and Levee Pedway.

Coyote Point Park

Coyote Point Park covers an area of 670 acres, and within the park is an extensive network of trails, some of which form as a segment of the San Francisco Bay Trail. There are five trails in Coyote Point Park. The Bay Trail will take you to the inner areas of Coyote Point Recreation Area. The Shoreline Trail is a favorite among birdwatchers as it will take you along the salt marsh. It is also the lone unpaved trail in Coyote Point Park.Meanwhile, the Promenade Trail extends along the Coyote Point Promenade and offers spectacular views of the bay. For a short loop, take the Marina Trail along the breakwater. Last but not the least, the Bluff Trail is one of the most scenic routes and will take you to a pleasant Eucalyptus grove. From here you'll have unobstructed views of the bay.

1. Sawyer Camp Trail

Considered as the most popular trail in San Mateo County, the Sawyer Camp Trail extends for six miles and forms a part of the larger Crystal Springs Regional Trail. It's a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, runners, and families with young children.Most of the trail's visitors stay along the three-mile southern stretch along the edge of Crystal Springs lake as this part is paved and relatively flat. Advanced cyclists, however, venture farther on a 15.3-mile ride that will take them deeper into the Crystal Springs Regional Trail.‍

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1. Sugarloaf Nature Area and Laurelwood Park
  1. If you'd like a quieter place to hike or bike, Laurelwood Park, and behind it, Sugarloaf Nature Area, will perfectly suit your needs. Aside from being relatively hidden, Laurelwood Park is also a dog-friendly facility.The real treat, however, is Sugarloaf Nature Area, which features some of the most pleasant trails in all of San Mateo County. There are roughly five trails in the nature area, with the one called the natural amphitheatre trail being the most popular. It'll take you all the way up of Sugarloaf. Exercise caution, as some of the trails are steeper and unmarked. Endure and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of San Francisco and the bay.

That's only four of San Mateo County's hiking and biking trails. For more information about its communities and real estate offerings, contact Richard Sarro today at 415-680-5042 or richardsarro@zephyrsf.com.

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