Summer 2009 Update

On a spectacular ridgeline above Muir Beach, the Dias Ridge Trail unfolds breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and Marin Headlands. Trails Forever crews there are currently wrapping up a project that ensures safe and sustainable access to this hidden gem, while protecting sensitive habitat.

Previously, hikers used an old ranch road, eroding the surrounding area and depositing sediment in Redwood Creek below—home to the endangered coho salmon and threatened steelhead trout.

Thus far, 1.2 miles of that damaging trail have been returned to natural conditions by filling eroded gullies and controlling invasive species. To replace the old alignment, crews built 1.5 miles of new, multi-use trial that will form a key connector in the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

Although major construction finished in July, stewardship teams and community volunteers will continue revegetation work through the fall and winter. The public is asked to avoid the new trail until habitat restoration is completed in spring 2010.

The Dias Ridge Trail project—a joint effort of the National Park Service, California State Parks, and Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy—is made possible through the support of the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council, California Coastal Conservancy, Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and those members who made an additional gift this spring in response to our mailing about Dias Ridge and other trail projects. Thank you!

Highlights

• 1.5 miles of new trail
• Decommissioned “social” trail to protect habitat
• Replanted native vegetation

Timeline: Trail re-opens March/April 2010 (tentative)
Closures/Detours: Download a map here