There are a couple different trailheads for the Sweeney Ridge area. For this hike I started at the Sneath Lane Trailhead. There is a small road side parking lot for about 12 cars, there is also ample parking up the road in the nearby neighborhood. Since this trail is very close to San Bruno Highlands area, it can get quiet busy on the weekends. The best time to take this hike is EARLY on a clear day.
There are no restrooms or maps at the trailhead, so its best to be prepared before you start the hike. The best MAP of the area can be found on the National Park Service site.
The Sneath Lane road starts to become a moderate incline at the "Fog Line", which helps bikers and hikers on foggy days. On busy days it does help seperate the uphill and downhill traffic.
After about a mile past the Discovery Site, you will reach the Portola Gate. This gate is at 1195 feet elevation. Be careful near the gate, there was a very active bee hive located in the gate pole on the day I was there.
From here you retrace your steps back down to the Sneath Lane Trailhead.
One reason this hike maybe not highlighted as a Top Hike is it does get popular on the weekends with hikers, dogs and mountain bikers. Luckily the trails are all very wide so there is ample room for everyone. The views are the best of both worlds on clear days, offering the best views the Bay Area and the Pacific Ocean. In addition, there are constant views of Pacifica, San Bruno & Montara Mountains, the Peninsula Watershed and even the San Francisco Airport (SFO).
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Basics:
Area - Sweeney Ridge - Golden Gate National Recreational Area
Trail - Sneath Lane and Sweeney Ridge Trail (Trail Map)
Length - 6 miles Out and Back- Easy Hike (Moderate/Easy uphill)
Trail - Paved road to the ridge, dirt road from ridge to the Portola Gate. Well maintained and marked.
Dogs - Some -- good dog hike, since there are almost no foxtails or brush with ticks.
Bikes - Yes
View - Almost all views - San Andreas Reservoir, Montara Mountain, Pacific Ocean, Pacifica and more.
Getting There - Google Map Take 280 or 35 to Sneath Lane, head west until the road ends.
Fee- None, free parking
Weather - Avoid if foggy, almost no shade. Bring water and sunscreen on hot days.
Other Trails - there are other trails nearby including Mori Ridge and Baquiano