Popular new Skyline Watershed Ridge Trail on Peninsula faces growing pains, safety concerns

SAN MATEO COUNTY, Calif. (KGO) -- The Bay Area's newest hiking destination is drawing thousands of visitors, but its popularity is also creating new challenges.

The Skyline Watershed Ridge Trail, a six-mile route overlooking Crystal Springs Reservoir, has been open for just a month. Since then, more than 20,000 people have visited the trail, according to rangers.

Visitors say the panoramic views are worth the trip.

"I love it. It's amazing. The view is amazing," said Burlingame resident Anna Maria Burgos.

John Coe of Menlo Park recently brought his mountain bike to explore the trail.

"It's not the most fun mountain biking trail, but it's cool to get out and see the views and check out something different," Coe said.

The trail's popularity appears to be growing quickly.

"I think it's going to get popular in the next month or two," one hiker predicted.

However, increased visitation is creating concerns about parking and pedestrian safety.

The trailhead parking lot has only 22 spaces and fills up quickly on weekends. As a result, some visitors are parking along nearby stretches of Highway 92 and Skyline Boulevard, before crossing busy roadways to access the trail.

"The big thing locals are talking about is people running across the street. There's no crosswalk for pedestrians entering the trail," said Will Roberts, co-owner of the historic Mountain House Restaurant.

Roberts and fellow co-owner Dmitry Elperin say they welcome the additional business hikers and cyclists bring to the area, but worry that someone could eventually get hurt.

"As I drive to work and turn off 92, I've seen some hairy moments," Elperin said.

The trail is managed by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. San Mateo County leaders say they are willing to work with the agency to explore possible solutions.

"Now the issue is, how do you deal with success?" said San Mateo County Supervisor David Canepa. "Whether it is more cars or people, you have to make the area safe."

Potential options could include parking restrictions or other safety improvements, though no changes have been announced.

For now, the Skyline Watershed Ridge Trail continues to attract outdoor enthusiasts eager to experience one of the Bay Area's newest recreation opportunities.

The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission has not yet responded to a request for comment.