Crystal Clear

Bike Ride by Crystal Springs Reservoir

06.27.2019

Sitting juxtaposed to busy Highway 280 on the Peninsula, Crystal Springs Reservoir is a big, glistening, two-lake treasure worthy of more than a drive-by affair. Fed by High Sierra water piped from Yosemite’s Hetch Hetchy, this tranquil oasis is best seen by biking the Crystal Springs Regional Trail, which borders the reservoir for 15 miles.

The southern part of the trail (from Highway 92 to Filoli Nature Preserve) runs along Cañada Road, and every Sunday from 9 am to 3 pm the road is closed to cars for Bicycle Sunday—literally paving the way for bicyclists, walkers, and joggers.

While the section is short (3.8 miles one-way), it’s easy to extend the ride by continuing north or south beside the reservoir. Either way, make a stop at the Pulgas Water Temple—a classical Greek structure honoring the achievement of moving water from Yosemite to the Bay Area. Roll with the flow.

To reach the southern section of Crystal Springs Regional Trail along Cañada Rd.: From I-280 exit Hwy. 92 toward Half Moon Bay. Park along Cañada Rd., south of Hwy. 92.  

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