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Equestrians on the Ridge Trail |
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The San Francisco Bay Area is a region of spectacular beauty, where hills and mountains in close proximity to the ocean offer soaring vistas and a variety of terrain. Many beautiful natural spaces have been protected and preserved for permanent enjoyment thanks to the effective collaboration of volunteer activists, nonprofit organizations, and public agencies at all levels.
The Bay Area Ridge Trail encourages access to these special places with a multi-use trail on the ridgeline. Today, with over 310 miles of the 550+ mile trail dedicated, there are completed sections of the trail in all nine counties around the Bay, and no one in the area lives more than one-half hour away from a completed section of the trail.
Our ultimate goal is to provide a continuous multi-use trail for mountain bicyclists, equestrians, and hikers/trail runners. Today two-thirds of the trail is fully multi-use, and we are working to close gaps and make as much of the trail fully multiuse as possible. The guidelines of the local park districts and landowners often determine which trails are multiuse. We ask you to follow all local rules and ride responsibly.
The best way to explore the Ridge Trail is using The Official Guide to the Bay Area Ridge Trail, by Jean Rusmore, published by Wilderness Press.
(Third edition covering over 300 miles now available).
It's available in many local bookstores, or at  WildernessPress.com
Hikers in Solano County, Photo by Rollye Wiskerson |
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Each month we select a trail and provide directions and a map so that you can organize your own outing. Or, check our calendar for guided outings on the Ridge Trail.
Tips for Enjoying your Ridge Trail Outing
Prepare for your adventure by having the proper equipment for your type of outing, including clothing in layers, hat, sunscreen, rain protection in winter, and snacks. Most important, bring enough water on your outing. Bicyclists and equestrians should wear helmets. You may want to bring a basic first-aid kit.
Rules of the "Road"
Equestrians, hikers, trail runners, and mountain bicyclists all share the Ridge Trail, so it's important to observe trail etiquette. These are suggested rules, courtesy of the Official Guide:
- Observe Trail Signs
- Be responsible, safe, and considerate
- Stay on the trail
- Respect private property
- Minimize your impact
- Protect plants and wildlife.
Generally accepted rules for yielding access are:
- Hikers and bicyclists yield to equestrians — stop and remain quiet as the horse and rider pass by
- Bicyclists yield to hikers — stop and dismount while the hiker passes
Dogs on the Trail
The Ridge Trail follows the local rules and regulations of each jurisdiction through which the trail passes regarding access for dogs. Each has its own rules about having your canine friend pad along with you. Check "The Official Guide" or the local park or recreation area's web site for more details.
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