McNee Ranch State Park

Located in Half Moon Bay off of Devil's Slide on Highway 1, this trail is very challenging. The first mile or so has sweeping views of the ocean cliffs and Montara State Beach down below. Following the signposts, you may take the hiking or biking trail, both will get you to the ranger's residence where you need to turn left at the gateposts, or what is left of them. The 4 mile trail becomes quite steep, as it continues to the top of the north side of Montara mountain. This is what's left of Old San Pedro Road, it used to carry auto traffic, (and there is an old wrecked car on the side of the mountain to prove it.)

The dirt service road to the right connects to the Montara Mountain trail, which leads into San Pedro Valley Park. Since you will have ascended 1600 feet already, you may not be inclined to repeat another steep climb for the return trip. Instead, for more mileage, there is a trail cut to a very rough, what's left of a paved road to Pacifica. This is the old Coast Highway before there was a Highway 1. The trail has some nice granite rock formations, colorful wildflowers, and after crossing the fogline, you can actually see views and feel the warm sunshine. Quite a contrast from the Half Moon Bay side! The end of the trail is nondescript, just an unmarked gate near Linda Mar school and Higgins Road. However, mountain bikers are familiar with the 3 mile trail, you will see plenty of them along the way.

Facilities:

None. Take a hydration system and long sleeve shirt for the Half Moon Bay side, it is usually foggy or overcast.

McNee Ranch State Park directions and map.

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