Hike Skyline at the Ridge Trail Cruz, Saturday Sept 29

The Ridge Trail Cruz will be held Saturday, Sept 29. The Cruz is the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council’s second annual trail event for hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians, beginning at Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District’s Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve.

The "Cruz" features a long section of the Ridge Trail, highlighting the fact that 300 miles of the projected 550-mile trail are already open for use. It also encourages community members to enjoy this recreational amenity by providing a fully supported and organized day on the trail. As part of the program again this year, a family hike suitable for children will be featured, and families are enthusiastically encouraged to attend.

Hikers may choose to go on a 12-mile hike, or up to 24 miles. A bus will shuttle hikers south to a Santa Clara County Park or the District’s Saratoga Gap Preserve so they can hike north on the return. There are two mountain bike options in District preserves for participants. Equestrians are welcome. Rest stops, water, lunch, snacks, a detailed map, and outing leaders are provided, plus bus transportation for hikers.

The fee is $40. Attendance is limited and advance registration is required.  Start time depends on the activity selected.  By joining the optional CruzAthon, participants can raise funds through pledges and receive special gifts.  Event proceeds will benefit the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council’s efforts to complete the proposed 550-mile trail.

Registration is open to the public at www.ridgetrail.org

The Bay Area Ridge Trail, when completed, will be a 550-mile trail encircling the San Francisco Bay along the ridge tops, and open to hikers, equestrians, mountain bicyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts of all types. The Council has dedicated over 300 miles of trail, which is permanently protected for public enjoyment.

The Bay Area Ridge Trail Council is the nonprofit organization that plans, acquires, builds, maintains, and promotes the Ridge Trail. www.ridgetrail.org <

The Council welcomes volunteers to work at rest stops along the route on the day of the event, or to assist with other preparations. Please contact Joel Gartland, the Council’s Volunteer Coordinator at (415) 561-2595 or [email protected].