On our week long stay in Pacifica, California at the end of July there were so many unique coastal experiences and stunning vistas, and one of those was a walk on Devil's Slide, the walking/biking/multi-use trail that actually used to be a section of Highway 1! The thing is, a highway should never have been built in that spot as the hillsides are too unstable, and consequently the highway was closed too frequently leaving many folks without a way in or out. Eventually after many many years and lots of community and political discussion, Highway 1 was rerouted via a tunnel, and the old portion of road was turned into a multi-use 1.3 mile trail, just 7 years ago, with access from both the beginning and the end. And friends, this is a wonderful spot to visit, with stunning views, though try to go during the week so you can park in the parking lot (or so the website advises) and have the place virtually all to yourself, as we did! Ready, lets take a walk on Devil's Slide!
Above: The entrance to Devil's slide trail from the North parking lot.
Here we go, it seems like everything is covered in fog, but not to worry, surprises await!
Above: Okay, wow? San Pedro Rock is picturesque indeed! (Missed the trail on San Pedro point, which is accessible from the same north end parking lot as Devil's Slide.)
Care to learn some history? In 1879, the Half Moon Bay-Colma Road was carved into the hill, and the Ocean Shore Railroad would later occupy this route. In 1915, construction for the Coastside Boulevard over the east slope of the mountain allowed farmers to take produce to market. Steep grades and hair-raising curves though caused many accidents before State Route 1 was completed in 1937.
California State Route 1 (renamed Highway 1 in 1964) was closed at Devil's Slide for the first time in 1940 and was plagued by erosion and landslides. Plans for an alternate route over Montara Mountain led to heated public controversy. Congressman Tom Lantos was instrumental in securing Federal funds for a permanent solution, and monumental grassroots efforts secured the votes for the Tunnel Initiative. The Tom Lantos Tunnels opened in 2013, retiring the section of Highway 1 that would reopen in 2014 as multi-use, recreational Devil’s Slide Trail.
Stunning and dramatic views from along the trail.
Good thing there is a guard rail!
At provided overlooks, trail users may rest on benches and gaze through observation scopes and take in the view of the rocky coastal waters below. Interpretive signs are placed at key points along the trail and describe the history, geography and the marine and avian communities that live and migrate here.
A truly special place!
Here the layers of mountain are truly sliding, and that my friends is Devil's Slide!
