Photo: Renée (Monterenée)
Photo: Oleksii Shestopalov
Photo: Artashes Petrosyan
Sawyer Camp Trail
FreeAdventure
🕑 1.5-3 hours depending on how far you go (most families with young kids do 2-4 miles round trip rather than the full 12-mile out-and-back)👶 Best for ages 3 and up. Toddlers enjoy stroller rides and short walking segments, while kids 5+ can bike or scooter the trail independently. The flat, paved surface makes it accessible for beginners learning to ride, and teens appreciate the longer distance for a good workout.
About
Sawyer Camp Trail offers families a gorgeous 6-mile paved path alongside the sparkling Crystal Springs Reservoir, perfect for biking, walking, or pushing a stroller. This car-free trail provides a safe environment for kids to ride bikes freely while spotting deer, squirrels, and various birds along the way, making it an ideal outdoor adventure for families looking to combine exercise with nature exploration.
Highlights
- ✓Flat, completely paved 6-mile trail perfect for learning to bike
- ✓Stunning reservoir views with photo opportunities
- ✓Frequent deer and bird sightings that excite kids
- ✓Car-free environment where kids can safely ride ahead
- ✓Shaded sections providing relief on warmer days
Pro Tips
- 1.Park at the northern trailhead off Highway 35 (Skyline Boulevard) for easier access and better facilities including restrooms
- 2.Arrive before 10am on weekends to avoid crowds and secure parking, especially during spring and fall
- 3.Bring binoculars for kids to spot wildlife,deer are frequently seen in early morning or late afternoon
- 4.Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the benches overlooking the reservoir around the halfway point
- 5.The trail is out-and-back, so younger kids can turn around at any point,the first mile offers most of the best reservoir views
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings or late afternoons offer the quietest experience. Spring (March-May) is ideal when wildflowers bloom and temperatures are mild. Early morning visits increase wildlife sighting opportunities, while avoiding midday summer heat.
What to Know
The trail is free with parking available at both ends (limited spaces, no fee). No food vendors on-site, so bring snacks and water. The paved trail is fully stroller and wheelchair accessible with minimal elevation change.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Spring offers wildflowers and greenery, while fall brings beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot midday but mornings are pleasant. Winter may be muddy after rain but trail remains open. Occasional trail closures for maintenance,check San Mateo County Parks website before visiting.
Nearby Eats
Head to nearby San Mateo for family-friendly options like Curry Up Now (fun Indian street food kids enjoy) or The Refuge (Belgian-inspired with great fries and casual atmosphere). Both are about 10-15 minutes from the trailhead.
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