Baquiano Trail

A short out and back hike that leaves from Pacifica's Rockaway Beach neighborhood, Baquiano Trail joins up with the network of Sweeney Ridge trails near the Portola Discovery Site (where Europeans first sighted the San Francisco Bay, on 4 November 1769). From the Fassler Avenue Trailhead, the trail climbs 550 feet in roughly 1 mile. Along the broad fire road, one will encounter Indian paintbrush, lupine, and California poppies in the spring and summer months. The fog can roll in off of the Pacific quickly, so be prepared for dramatic temperature changes on the exposed ridge. More than other Sweeney Ridge Trails, Baquiano falls victim to noise pollution from nearby San Francisco Airport. Sweeping Pacific views reward an easy hike from the residential Pacifica Trailhead. More advanced hikers can carry on from Sweeney Ridge Trail to Notch or Mori trails for added mileage. Baquiano Trail is open to hikers, mountain bikers and dogs.