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Sawyer Camp Trail at Crystal Springs Reservoir
Categories: Active Life Parks Active Life Hiking Parks, Hiking [Edit]
Skyline Blvd & Crystal Springs RdSan Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 589-4294
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
202 reviews for Sawyer Camp Trail at Crystal Springs Reservoir
202 reviews in English
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Review from James F.
Menlo Park, CA
2/3/2012
Coming here for YEARS - favorite time is SPRING - so green and pretty. AND the young animals are out & about(so please leave them be) - GREAT PICTURES. Nice for picnics...GREAT for families (there is a road)..(watch out for the bikes). A true gem for a place to get out to...Also don't forget the San Bruno part TOO!!! You can walk a bit sit and let the world go bye - enjoy the other people enjoying themselves(people watching). If you want to bike or run...you can!!!
Also bring water (there are bathooms along the trail) and food if you like. -
Review from Athena S.
2/2/2012
Been going here for years as one of a handful of very scenic lovely paved paths in the Peninsula.
Warmer than the bay trail, can get really crowded weekends before noon, but still, a treasure in our backyard.
Enjoy. -
Review from Audrey C.
Los Altos, CA
This is a great local place to go to on a beautiful day. There's a mix of shaded and non-shaded spots, and benches at various spots along the way.
Although I enjoyed the 6 mile, roundtrip, hike, I think I would want to try this trail on bike or rollerblades next time. It's a walker friendly trail, but a bit monotonous because of how flat the terrain is (good for running, but I'm not much of a runner). I think this is great for families too because you can easily push a stroller or take kids on bikes/scooters.
Rating: 3.5 starsListed in: Hikes
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Review from Claire W.
This is on my top 3 favorite outdoor workout spots on the mid peninsula. 5 stars for the following:
1. Beautiful view of the "lake" (a.k.a. the Crystal Springs Reservoir) to take friends or family out for a walk on a nice day.
2. At each half mile there is a mileage marker to help keep track of how far you have gone. I have gone from the park entrance up to the 4 mile mark and came back. That is an 8-mile walk/run! The trail actually continues all the way up but I have not tried that far yet.
3. Easy access either from 280 or 92. I used to be able to take the Black Mountain exit from 280 to go to the park entrace though, which is closer. Since they started the bridge construction a couple years ago you have to either go a little further up on 280 to take the next exit or take 92 and get off on De Anza Blvd then take the local road to take you to Crystal Springs Road.
4. I wouldn't say that parking is plenty, but I could always find a spot on the side of the road up the hill from the entrance.
5. The place is popular so you will never feel lonely if you go there by yourself. Especially for the first 2 miles, you will see many people, some families among them with small kids or even strollers occasionally.
6. I almost always see some deers in the woods by the road. Sometimes they even venture out to the road even when there are people walking by. I guess they are used to seeing people so they find us harmless.
The trail is paved and is not very wide and you are sharing it with other runners/hikers/bikers so need to watch out for traffic. I even came here roller blading once, but never did it again. The road is a little too rough for roller blading.
There are at least three bathrooms in the first 4 miles. First one is at the park entrance. Then there are at least two more at about 2nd and 4th mile markers. These are just the convenience toilets without water facility though. But they do provide the hand sanitizer inside the bathroom.
Oh and this place is popular for some bike or run race, so in the summer time it may get shut down for a few hours to hikers.Listed in: Best Hiking Spots
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Review from Debbie H.
Redwood City, CA
1/24/2012
This is one of my favorite places for a nice bike ride with friends. We always start at the south end of the trail and make our way up 6 miles to the end in Millbrae. For me, it's a pretty steep climb on my bike for the last mile or so...I'm not someone who particularly enjoys biking up hills. BUT, it's worth it because you get to coast down! It's a blast going down and I always enjoy that reward after sweating the climb. Anyway, there's also some nice tree canopy areas that you go through as well.
Great for a nice walk with friends too!
Very scenic and highly recommended. If you can, just come during a less crowded time, ie weekday or later afternoon. -
Review from Lexie M.
Belmont, CA
12/30/2011
I went running here a few weeks ago. The day was beautiful and the trail was somewhat busy. Some people were walking, running, biking, etc. It didn't seem overcrowded despite the nice weather.
I went about 4 miles in. I've heard that somewhere after that it tends to get somewhat inclined and I just wanted to go for an easy jog. The scenery around the reservoir was beautiful. Great way to have started my day!
My only complaint is no dogs :( I think it makes more sense for there to be no bicyclists on the trail. After all they do have a lane to themselves on our roads! Some of them just zoom by so fast you wonder why they haven't knocked down a kid yet or something...
Despite this I will go back to Sawyer for more trail running! -
Review from Mia S.
Artesia, CA
1/14/2012 4 Check-ins Here
This is my place to just relax, workout, or stroll around with the family! It has such a great view and it's so peaceful. You are definitely going to run into some wildlife here since there are a lot of deer, birds, coyotes, etc. The trail runs 6 mi one way, with winding roads, some incline but nothing too strenuous. Great for biking, running, you can even bring your horses here!
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Review from FLICK R.
San Francisco, CA
11/22/2011 1 photo
I love doing sprints along this trail.
The only downsides are the rattle snakes, speeding bikes and people walking the wrong way or walking 3 or 4 wide and plugging up the road
If I was mean I would like to push them off into the bushes.
Once as I was finished and walking back to my truck, a rattler slithered out right under my car as I got to it.
Other times I have almost run over them when they are laying on the trail or crossing it.
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Also be sure to lock up your valuables because scumbags do break into cars around here. -
Review from Sarah W.
Burlingame, CA
11/2/2011 4 photos
A great place to Run, walk, ride your bike, push a stroller, anything you want. It is a great place for kids, adults and elders alike!
I love this trail! It is peaceful, and in Nature there are some areas that have hills and some areas that are flat. I usually start at the entrance near San Bruno Avenue and Skyline because it is less crowded, then the San Mateo entrance. I have also entered in at the Millbrae entrance but that side has a lot of hills. It just depends on what you are looking for. -
Review from Kimberly S.
San Mateo, CA
Been here enough times I guess it's time to give it a review....
LOVE IT! Especially the mile markers at every 1/2 mile - helps me to keep my pace while I'm running. Slight inclines and turns here and there keeps the run from being boring. Don't worry if you're not a hardcore runner - joggers, walkers, strollers, rollerbladers, and bikers all use this trail and share the path nicely.
If you start on the other end, you will be going downhill for about the first two miles so it's easy, but remember - you gotta go back up! Start on the South end (Crystal Springs and Skyline Blvd) and you can run/walk/bike with a breathtaking view of the lake next to you. Definitely better views on the South end. I love seeing the lake on my run back - it makes me feel accomplished!
Beware of the swarms of bugs on those warm days. But at least you don't have to watch out for dog poop - no dogs allowed on this trail. And you're almost guaranteed to see deer along the path.
Bring water if you are planning a long run. There aren't any water fountains after 3/4 mile in (from the south end). Also, come before 8:30 on the weekends - parking can be tough if you come later.Listed in: My New Hood - San Mateo!, Stress Relievers
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Review from Greg S.
9/20/2011
Sawyer Camp Trail gets high marks for location, really close but with the feeling of being far away. However, it's a bit too crowded for my tastes and in fact it's kinda boring.
If you're looking for a hike, go elsewhere. The scenery and views don't change that much and it gets really repetitive. There were way too many kids in strollers on this hike, and tons of bikes.
So yes, it's not my cup of tea. For other people...obviously it's great. Instead you'll find me just 10 minutes away on Hwy 35, where the views are varied and the foot traffic light. -
Review from Marie P.
Pacifica, CA
Alluring landscape. Natural environment. A calm and peaceful escape. It's far enough from the highway where you don't hear any street noise. The perfect place to walk, jog, bike, blade, etc.
The parking situation outside of Sawyer Camp could be tricky. There is plenty of parking, but the key is to go on days where it is less visited (if your schedule allows it). -
Review from Irene L.
8/16/2011
I ADORE CRYSTAL SPRINGS. Its definitely one of my favorite places to go running. There's tons of free parking, the scenery is gorgeous, it always smells like tea, the weather is usually nice, and if you're lucky, you'll see a deer or two. I love that there are 0.5 mile markers along the way so you know exactly how far you've gone, and the hills present a nice challenge.
There are only 2 cons about this place: [1] The restrooms smell AWFUL so don't even think about stepping in. As such, make sure to relieve yourself before you begin your run. [2] So.many.bicyclists. Not necessarily a bad thing but please, bike past us runners! I hate running alongside you.
CHECK IT OUT! I love this place, 100 times better than Lake Merced. -
Review from Albert E.
San Jose, CA
11/21/2011
Get back to nature and enjoy the outdoors. Great walking and biking trail. This trail is next to highway 280 and runs from San Bruno to Highway 92. I have not walked the entire trail yet. One of my goals one of these days. It really is beautiful and peaceful. We start our walk in Millbrae and walk for about 5 miles then turn around and go back to where we started. So relaxing!
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Review from Lindsay Morgan L.
Seattle, WA
9/7/2011
Beautiful trail. You actually feel removed from the hubub of the city, yet it's only a short drive out to it. The parking is a little nuts on the weekend, but because the trail is so long, it is not actually that congested with people. I've gone decent stretches without running into anyone. And have instead run into deer -- which in this area is incredible. I really appreciate the frequent mileage markers. It makes it easy to measure out exactly how many miles I've run, since I've only ever a few times just before major runs wanted to go the entire 12 miles.
The frequency of bathrooms is also nice, which admittedly is likely to limit run-off into the reservoir, but even so, it's appreciated. Again, while I could wish they would allow dogs so I could come here more often, I respect again that they're likely protecting our water with that decision. -
Review from Jessica L.
San Mateo, CA
5/14/2011
Great trail!
Mostly flat but plenty long - and mile markers every .5 help keep you on your way. In our 7 mile hike we passed 3 bathrooms and tons of benches to rest at. Great views of the reservoir and I also saw a mama deer, baby deer, and bunny.
We look forward to coming back with our bike and I am also anxious for the construction to be done!Listed in: San Ma-awesome
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Review from larry Y.
San Mateo, CA
5/25/2011
I really liked this trail. It was paved and very flat but also had dirt on the sides for those of you hardcore walkers. We walked for 7 miles (round trip). The entire trail is 12 miles so its a great spot for either bikers and walkers.
From other reviews I have read, it appears that the train get really busy during the summer months, but when we went there were only a few people on the trail which made it nice.
There are plenty of benches and great look out spots to view the water as well as nature. We came across two deer and a bunny which where very cool to see.
Once our bikes are up and running this would be a great place to ride. -
Review from Angeline L.
Burlingame, CA
4/16/2011
Great running path
Thankful for the mile markers.
After signing up for a run, this was the perfect place to train.
Far enough away from the city, but not too far so that you still have a level paved path to run on.
First time here, I came down from the North entrance and was wowed by the Crystal Spring Reservoir. They I turned to see 2 deer grazing on some grass on the hill. BEST PLACE EVER.
Water fountains: one on the north end, and I believe one on the south end.
Bathroom: (nice porto-potty) only on the south end
There are also benches along the path.
Great for cyclists, mom's w/strollers, lunch-time walks, retirement ambling, marathon trainers, and everything else you can think of =).Listed in: I Love Nature
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Review from Kristin G.
San Mateo, CA
10/24/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This is a beautiful place to get some exercise without cars around. The only downside is people who don't stay in the correct lane. There are both bikes and pedestrians on the path and all going different speed. Stay far to the right for safety and others.
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Review from Grace L.
3/12/2011 3 photos
It was a beautiful sunny Sunday morning, and Lovie and I were feeling adventurous. 3 mile run? Why not? So here we were soaking in the sights and sounds of Crystal Springs Reservoir.
It was my first time here, and I was blown away by the beauty of this trail! I was running with ease as every turn was filled breathtaking views of the reservoir. Other people had the same idea of coming out to this spot on a nice sunny day as there were plenty of couples, families, bike riders, fellow runners and walkers who seemed like they were enjoying themselves as much as we were.
The only thing about this place is parking is a bit tricky, so arrive either really early or later in the day. Easily one of my favorite spots in the area!Listed in: The Peninsula!
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Review from Hector G.
5/6/2011 1 Check-in Here
I absolutely love this trail. I mean, the number of "soccer" moms has increased exponentially in recent years and with that come yapping on cell phones and texting pushing strollers. I guess that's just part of life in the bay area now, specifically in the hills.
This week has been absolutely gorgeous and tonight after work, I'm gonna walk 6 or 7 miles. I could:
A) walk around the hood
B) walk around the track at B'Game high
or
C) walk the sawyer camp trail, enjoy the great outdoors, mother nature and hope for a deer sighting just before sunset.
Easy choice -
Review from jump h.
Los Gatos, CA
5/25/2011
So, I've been to a few trails before. This is really just an alright trail. I'm not sure why it got such a good rating. I went on a nice day an it was nice, but not spectacular.
Saw some wildlife from afar and lots of people. This place gets crowded for a trail by some water. Would recommend going to some place else for a quite walk, but for some place close, this does the trick.
Kind of boring for kids; as the trail is all paved and there isn't much else to do but walk on the flat ground. -
Review from Em S.
2/10/2011
It's a great tail with it's own micro-climates in the AM as the sun warms some areas and not others right away.
It's 6 miles out and 6 miles back with very regular markers to check your pace. Trained here with my DORC (Dave's Outdoor Running Club) team mates in 2002 and 2003 ... hey we needed a name for a 12-person team doing the Providian Relay. Later trained with my very patient Kenyan buddy Farah to do the Death Valley marathon ... the cool one in February with Envirosports. It's a good trail in the winter if you want to go the distance and avoid mud.
Farah and I kept on going past the 6 mile mark ... went out at first to another three miles through the woods and on to the next section of paved trail. Then we left the trail altogether and ran on the road. We were figuring easy 10 minute miles at that point. So we managed an out and back of about 20 miles. It's better than trying to run the 12 out and back and then starting again for further distance. You kind of want to say it's enough with one loop.
There's an entire herd of deer grazing in the western green areas, and a few occasionally in the cool weather get up on the trail in the AM.
Since I've switched to cyclocross, it's not as much fun to ride it as to run it. The crowds of people in the early miles make it hazardous to have any speed on a bike. The East Bay Regional Parks are more ideal for biking ... especially at Anthony Chabot. -
Review from Belem R.
San Mateo, CA
4/20/2011 2 Check-ins Here
LOVE this place!
This has always been and will continue to be my got to spot because it's so close to home. I have been going here since I was 4(for almost 20 years now)! I rode my bike, rollerbladed, and to this day still run here. When I run I like to have a good view of nature and this is def the place to run with out any steep hills and such.
What makes it so great are not just the views but the mile markers. It's nice to know how much you actually run, specially if you don't want to take any phones, iPods, watches, etc. they are perfect to know how much time you have been running for (that's if you know how much you do a mile in).
If you are lucky you get to see cute little bunnies and bambi's with their parents.
I think everyone in the bay area should visit this trial once in their lifetime!
So now that you're done reading this...GO! Even if it's just to sit on one of their benches, enjoy the view, and breath some fresh air! -
Review from Charles M.
Burlingame, CA
9/30/2011
This place is pretty lame. It's right next to the highway and the road which doesn't make it feel very nature-y. The barbed wire lining the reservoir isn't inviting. Plus, there's too many people using this trail. I give this place a big thumbs down.
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Review from jazzy l.
San Francisco, CA
5/31/2011
Flat pavement.
6 miles long.
Plenty of bikers and joggers
Shady and cool ( a bit windy)
Some benches a long the way but no portables potties at the 2 mile mark.
Parking is only a long the entrance/exit of the freeway. -
Review from Mona W.
Good trail for biking and running but if you are expecting a real hike, this is really not the place to be. There is no elevation so it is really just a casual walk. I wouldn't say the view is spectacular but the reservoir is quite pretty on a sunny day.
The trail entrance is impossible to miss if you are coming from Crystal Springs Road. (unless you are on the wrong road or you drove off the cliff) The trail seems to be pretty popular but not crowded. Parking weren't hard to find.
Full trail is about 6 miles one way. Great place to train for runners.Listed in: Fun and Healthy Group…, Outdoor Recreations
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Review from Peter C.
San Francisco, CA
4/3/2011
Drove by this place a few times in the past but never thought to stop by. One day I finally came with my dog and right before passing through the entrance a guy said 'you better watch out, you'll get a $100+ ticket for bringing in a dog'. Boom...one star down (should have given 2)...no dogs? Are you kidding me?!....
Anyways so today I went back w/out my dog and I have to say it was a pretty darn good experience! Went for a 6 mi walk - first time on the trail, they have mile markers so you know how far you've gone. The trail was gorgeous with curves and bends that made the the hike interesting, also amazing views of Crystal Springs Reservoir and the outlying forest :) I definitely chose a nice day to go.
The crowd was really diverse - families, couples, hard core runners, bikers and people like me...walkers and first-timers. Interesting thing is as you get past the 1-2 mi mark there's less and less people on the trail which (if you get that far) makes for a pretty zen experience.
Downside = trail is totally paved and no freaking dogs allowed!! *I would definitely suggest doing a pilot program where dogs are allowed during certain hours or days of the week.* -
Review from Amy L.
4/19/2011 7 photos
I love walking around here. So much. Every time I pass it on 280, I'm struck with urges to visit. I cannot believe that water could be this blue on a clear day... mmm gorgeous.
I've never run the trail, but I've walked all along it with the boy. We saw deer off of the trail once! I think the benches along the trail are a super cute touch. There are people of all ages to be seen here - from tiny kids to older folk, to all those in between [like me!].
I want to say that this reservoir is one of those open-secrets. Lots of people have seen it, but not everybody comes to visit, so as a reward for coming to visit, you get a gorgeous view, and a really nice trail to run/bike/walk on. And I think the reward is definitely worth it :) -
Review from Stephy L.
2/11/2011
On a sunny day with a bit of breeze, I think of coming here.
Sawyer camp trail is perfect for running and biking. As a matter of fact, my friends and I decided to come here and spent the afternoon biking. We took 5 bikes on the back of a pick-up truck and off we go! There is a good amount of parking located just right outside the trail. This place is really popular. You do see cars parked on the outside at all times. Early in the morning, afternoon, evening...You will not miss the entrance!
So we parked our truck. Took our bikes down, and started our adventure. The trail is paved a-okay. During the beginning of the trail you are surrounded with trees on one side, and the lake on the other. As you ride down more, you will enter into another atmosphere, with trees surrounded you on both sides. It is very relaxing. On some days, if you're lucky, you'll be able to spot some deers as you ride.
They do have a bike lane and a walking lane. Learn to share the road because there are also a bunch of people that are walking, either with strollers of with their ipods. Every now and than you will see a bathroom stop. There are also benches along the way for you to rest and take a sip of water. There are also markers every now and than to check how far you've gone. My friends and I rode about 3-4 miles down and turned around when we hit the steep hill, and rode back.
Definitely check it out! It is a nice walking trail since it is not too elevated. -
Review from Peter B.
San Francisco, CA
4/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
So I've been coming to this trail for years now, often 2-3 times a week, to get in an hour of cardio on my bike and I have learned along the way to take the first 2 miles casually as their are a lot of walkers, joggers and parents with strollers on warm days. 3 Mile marker allows you to pick up the pace.
Holidays? forget it, this place is packed and the new folks tend to not realize that it is like driving on a two way street, you have to stay in your lane and often times a group of 4 people enjoying the walk tend to forget that they are not alone and need to walk in pairs instead of sprawled out in a single line,horizontally, not allowing any bikers through....oh and they sure look at you funny when you ask them to move kindly? lol
So I love coming here late in the day, when the rush of crowds are gone, often times after 5:30 pm, also when the deers can be found inside the trail as you casually ride past them and surely never panic to see you.
The pace is nice to keep at 10 MPH but do realize some areas are to be respected at 5 MPH and so I will comply. The 4.5 maker marks the spot where you begin a nice challenging hill to climb, for 1/2 a mile, to a very rewarding view at the top. The path continues for another 2 ish miles before coming to a dead end.
Retracing your steps, pedals, is a nice way to end the day just be aware that when you get 3 miles back into the trail, drop your speed below 8 MPH to be courteous to joggers and walkers who also enjoy this hidden gem.
Do not bring your pets!!!! -
Review from Helen L.
9/5/2011
I see why this is so popular. It's very enjoyable. It's paved. There's shade here and there. You see families walking, biking, and rollerblading. So many little ones willing to enjoy the outdoors. There's benches here and there for you to sit and enjoy the scenery. It's suppose to be 7 miles, but if you think about it, you have to remember that is 7 miles to and 7 miles back. It reminds me of Lake Tahoe, without the drive. The trail head: go towards Crystal Springs golf course, see the wedding sign and turn left and keep on going until you see cars and people. There are restrooms at the beginning and towards 1 mile mark.
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Review from Melissa L.
San Francisco, CA
11/26/2010
This trail has a little bit of something for everyone - bikers, runners, walkers, casual strollers and even those just looking to get some fresh air and a nice view.
I've been on this trail a few times as it's one of my favorites for running. There are 1/2 mile markers all along the 6 mile trail from San Mateo to Millbrae, which makes it very convenient for those, like me, that need to know how much they've done and how much more they have to go. The entire path is paved and well groomed and contains both shaded and exposed areas. Bugs have only been an issue during the warmer months.
The first mile or two from the San Mateo entrance can get pretty crowded with those just looking to take a casual stroll, hang out with their loved ones or teach someone to ride a bike. The path can get a bit congested, but there's room enough for everyone, especially when common rules for sharing trails are followed. The Millbrae entrance is a lot quieter and less populated than the southern entrance.
There are 2 or 3 restrooms along the trail and plenty of benches for resting your weary feet. The views of the reservoir are spectacular. On my last visit I was able to see two deer grazing near the fence. Parking can get pretty packed on the San Mateo side but I've been pretty lucky and have not had any issues. Parking is plentiful at the Millbrae entrance.
This is definitely a little bit of an oasis in the Bay Area. It seems so odd that this is right next to 280, but you cannot really hear or see the cars for most of the trail.
Totally worth checking out time and time again! -
Review from Jocelyn P.
Walnut Creek, CA
4/21/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This is a spectacular trail for a nice stroll, running or biking. The scenic trail is paved and there is plenty of room for all the walkers, runners, and bikers. Dogs are not allowed on the trail, although, you can spot a deer or little critters along the sides of the trail. It can get a bit crowded on sunny days, but it's all good! Everyone that comes here is friendly and shares the space.
Enjoy! -
Review from Michelle C.
Belmont, CA
1/27/2011
Just imagine walking into the most beautiful painting. That is what it felt like for me as I rode my bike along this trail. Just took my breath away some of the vista views of the water and the rolling hills in the backdrop. I felt this would be a great attraction for visitors who are sporty people that just love to push themselves with a great backdrop.
The trail is 6 miles each way. Roundtrip 12 miles...ouch! Parking is alongside the road. Kind of scary, but it is possible. Bummer if you are a biker, people do crowd the trails, bring your bell to ring, *bring...BRIIIIINNNNG!* There are about 5 bathrooms, I counted along the trail. I maybe wrong? But hey, if you gotta go, better than in the bushes.
So in conclusion I really LOVE this trail. Super happy it is not that far from my apartment. I feel so lucky. : ) -
Review from alexander r.
Daly City, CA
9/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've ran many places in the Bay Area and Sawyer Camp Trail is by far the best trail run yet...Its in a pretty secluded area but not far of a drive at all... it takes you away from city street running and brings you to a more calm and peaceful nature run. Perfect views of the water makes the run even more beautiful.... for those of you that are runners and havent been here yet you definitely have to check it out...
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Review from Darrel D.
Castro Valley, CA
I took some folks hiking to this place in order to introduce them to the joys of hiking. This is a great trail for beginners, also fun for families. We met at the end of Hillcrest Blvd, and hiked down the Sawyer Camp Trail to the 3 mile mark. From starting to the 3 mile mark, there are two bathroom facilities, two picnic areas, as well as payphones along the way. I am still impressed by the cleanliness of the trail and the surrounding area. If you are seeking a casual walk, want a fun run, or want to get into hiking, then check out this trail. There are alot of folks that bike on this trail, so when going, be aware of your surroundings, and follow trail rules (hike on the right side of the trail, listen for bike bells or someone shouting "on your left").
Listed in: SF Bay Area Hikes
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/11/2008
I can still remember the stunning blue water with its surface dancing in the wind and the faint… Read more »
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Review from Patricia L.
San Jose, CA
1/12/2011
The bf and I were suppose to go for a hike, but ended up at Sawyer Camp Trail instead for a 7-mile long walk. It was a chilly Sunday afternoon. The sun was out but it was only in the 50s. The reservoir is beautiful on a sunny day. The water just glistens in the sunlight. This is the perfect place to spend a nice relaxing afternoon. There is a nice trail that runs along the water where you will find a lot of bikers, runners, and walkers. The trail is fairly flat with only a slight incline in certain areas, but you'll hardly even notice the change in incline.
The trail is marked every 0.5 miles, which is helpful to let you know how far you have gone, but it might get a little confusing if you turn around in the middle of the trail and have to figure out what the returning markers mean to you since they are marked from the other end of the trail.
Downside: No dogs allowed. Also, you have to park your car on the side of the road and it can get crowded on weekends. -
Review from Pam S.
What a beauty! I would go work out and be fit all the time if this is what I get to see.
Sawyer camp is right off 280, exit black mountain. Of course, I got lost! So make sure you get the directions right. Although getting lost is not a bad idea. The drive is great. Pasing thru Hillsborough where you see the nice houses and the BMWs and Mercedes.
Nearing the trail, you will see cars parked around the entrance. Parking is not bad at all, you can easily find a spot.
This is a good place to bike, run, skate, jog, walk or even take wedding pictures. It's good for anybody, young and old alike. It offers interesting and challenging inclines and declines. Great for any training you are doing.
The trail is just gorgeous views of the water, the mountain and the woods. And yes, you might even spot a dear or squirrel along the way.Listed in: Bike, Run, Hike, Swim!!!
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Review from Lena C.
Alameda, CA
7/6/2010
Finally I went hiking yesterday and the weather was perfect. I normally like a more difficult trail and this one was very easy but I still enjoyed my hiking a lot.
When we got there, there were two choices of trails: San Andrea Trail and Sawyer Trail.
We already tried San Andrea Trail before so we decided to try the Sawyer one.
This trail fits more for bikes and jogging - 6 miles one way.
Parking on the street was busy but not too bad
