Mori Ridge Trail (to Sweeney Ridge)
Pacifica, CA
Mori Ridge Trail is fairly steep dirt “fire road” which makes for a perfect out-and-back trail if you’re planning to return as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean. The unencumbered ocean views are stunning, especially at sunset. Bikes and dogs (on leash) are allowed.
The trailhead begins at the Shelldance Orchid Nursery parking lot off Highway One. See map and detailed directions below. It is about 2 miles from this trailhead to the Portola Discovery Site, where Gaspar de Portola became the first European explorer to sight San Francisco Bay in 1769. The Discovery Site is at an elevation of 1220 feet on the highest peak in the Sweeney Ridge area.
Bring a jacket in case it gets foggy. Temperature, fog strata and weather often will change substantially during your hike depending on the time of day and elevation.
Detailed Directions: The trailhead is on the east side of Highway 1 in Pacifica south of Sharp Park Road and north of Reina Del Mar. From either direction (SF or Half Moon Bay) get to Highway 1 & Reina Del Mar. Starting from Highway 1 and Reina Del Mar drive north on Highway 1 past the police station on the right and then look for the small sign on the right that says “orchids.” At the “orchids” sign take a very sharp right turn (it’s tricky) and drive up the winding road to the main parking area adjacent Shelldance Orchard Gardens greenhouses. There you will see a big Sweeney Ridge trailhead sign.
Related Links:
- Shelldance Orchid Gardens Nursery – The parking lot here is where the Mori Ridge Trail begins.
- Mori Ridge Trail Map
- Sweeney Ridge Trails Brochure and Trails Guide
- Pacifica Area Map of Things To Do
- Mori Point – You can actually extend your hike from the Mori Ridge Trail head to get to Mori Point on the coast. Check Google Maps to figure out where to cross Highway 1 (note: You will need walk north a couple of blocks to Westport Drive to get across Highway 1).
- Other very good trails nearby include Pedro Point Headlands, Devil’s Slide, Montara Mountain Hike, Grey Whale Cove Trail
- Montara Area Map of Things To Do
- Half Moon Bay coastal trails and map for HiddenSF’s best things for locals to do along the Half Moon Bay Coast line
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