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.
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.
Flickr/ albedo20
Because this stretch of highway was so spectacularly beautiful, however, San Mateo County railed to keep it something to be enjoyed by the public.
Flickr/ Toni Corelli
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.
Flickr/ albedo20
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.
Flickr/btwashburn On the Montara Mountain trail.
There are other smaller landmarks that you can spot from the trail, like Bird Rock.
Flickr/ Toni Corelli
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.
Flickr/ Toni Corelli
Pictured here is some decomposed granite located along the Devil’s Slide Trail. The route winds through stunning cliffs and offers constant coastal views.
Flickr/ Toni Corelli
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.
Flickr/ Toni Corelli
The great thing about the coastal Mediterranean climate is that you can enjoy it year round with a warm jacket. This shot was taken in the autumn.
Flickr/ mikeccross
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.
Flickr/ Jesse Wagstaff
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.
Flickr/ Toni Corelli
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.
Flickr/ albedo20
Flickr/ Toni Corelli
Flickr/btwashburn
On the Montara Mountain trail.
Flickr/ mikeccross
Flickr/ Jesse Wagstaff
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Address: 5981 California Coastal Trail, Pacifica, CA 94044
