Bike then Beer at Redwood Shores on the Peninsula South Bay
The coastal community of Redwood Shores may be known for its tech campuses, but this 8.5-mile bike loop explores the natural side of this beautiful peninsula. With a brew pub bonus!
(Some sections of the Bay Trail are unpaved, so a mountain or gravel bike is recommended.)
From the Oracle Parkway parking lot, head north on the Bay Trail. After passing through native flower gardens, cyclists can stop at the trailside viewing station that overlooks the Belmont Slough. Take a look in the tower viewers and see if you can spot the herons and egrets that call this waterway home.
Continue along the Bay Trail as it dips south to the Redwood Shores Branch Library. This section of trail is lined with public exercise stations, perfect for those who want to add an upper body workout or a good stretch to their ride.
The trail continues north, following the curve of the slough. After passing through Preserve Park, turn right to head toward the western tip of the peninsula. Here, the Belmont Slough and Bay Slough combine to create a perfect wetland for our Bay Area water birds. Turn left onto the viewing platform to overlook Bird Island. Avocets, stilts, and California clapper rails can often be spotted on the shore.
Return to the trail and turn left on the bridge to reach Radio Road. Follow the road until it passes Shore Dogs Park, then continue straight onto the Bay Trail. Turn right to follow the Bay Trail south, alongside Steinberger Slough. This gravel path features photo-worthy views of the bright blue water and Bair Island to the east. Colorful flower gardens and home orchards line the opposite side of the trail.
When the trail dead-ends at the Marriott hotel, turn right to merge onto Twin Dolphin Drive. Follow this to Marine Parkway, then cross the street to get an up-close view of the Oracle Team USA boat moored on the Oracle campus. Head south on Marine Parkway, and after the intersection with Oracle Parkway, turn right to hop back onto the Bay Trail and return to the parking lot.
The mid-peninsula is a hotspot for craft breweries, so before heading home, be sure to grab a refreshing pint! After a summertime bike ride, Heather recommends the fruity sour beers at Fieldwork Brewing Company in San Mateo.
The Oracle Parkway parking lot is located at 501 Island Place in Redwood City. Map.
Story and photos by Heather Werner, heath.er.wer.ner
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