Old Colma Road Loop

This loop covers a variety of historical paths. As you leave the lot and head through the gate north, you pass through a long straight road corridor. This was cut by the Ocean Shore Railroad (1908-1920) for its rail line. At the end of this straight road, the train originally proceeded straight across Green Valley and eventually through the Devils Slide cut. However the route now takes a right along "Half Moon Bay- Colma Road" (1879-1915). This was the original county road built over the mountain. If you follow this path you will eventually reach the ridge top. On the way you will first pass a building that was originally built as part of a WW2 military station used to observe potential enemies off the coast. Bear left at this point and slowly climb Old Colma. You will come across a very steep portion created by fill from the nearby tunnel's construction before stepping back down to the original road. As you switch back up the mountain, you will come across a trail down to the right which is the one that is part of this route. However the left path, which is actually the old road, brings you up to views of the north and past a stone bench. Either route will take you to the ridge top. Here you proceed to the right and east along the ridge trail. (Left would take you to private property). The trail along the ridge was used by indigenous peoples and documented by the Spanish on their arrival. As you travel across the ridge you will eventually come across an old road. This road (Coastside Hwy) (1915-1937) was the second built over the mountain, the first with automobiles in mind. It was replaced by HWY 1. As you proceed down to the south you will eventually come to and enter the Grey Whale Trail which will take you back to the lot. This trail is actually part of original Old Colma Road as well.