Blufftop Coastal Trail

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Poplar St. Half Moon Bay, California

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FAQ

Blufftop Coastal Trail FAQ
What is the Blufftop Coastal Trail?
The Blufftop Coastal Trail is a scenic walking and cycling trail located in Half Moon Bay, California. It runs along the bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning coastal views and access to diverse wildlife. It’s part of the larger Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail system.
Where is the Blufftop Coastal Trail located?
The trail begins near Poplar Avenue and extends towards Myrtle Street in Half Moon Bay, California. It’s situated along the bluff overlooking the ocean.
What kind of wildlife can I see on the trail?
The Blufftop Coastal Trail is a haven for wildlife! You might spot a wide variety of birds, including raptors (hawks, kestrels), shorebirds, waterfowl (ducks, geese), warblers, and gulls. The area is also home to grassland wildlife, and during migration seasons, you may see other birds. Specific sightings include Northern Mockingbirds, European Starlings, Townsend’s Warblers, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Campbell’s Geese, Snow Geese, and Gray-faced Blackbirds. The trail’s eroding cliff edges are particularly important for birders.
What activities can I do on the trail?
You can enjoy walking, cycling, birdwatching, photography, and simply appreciating the coastal scenery. The trail is popular with both casual walkers and serious birders.
What are the parking options?
Parking is available in a pay lot near Poplar Avenue. There’s also often street parking available on weekdays, though it can be limited on weekends. Be aware that a parking fee applies to the Poplar lot.
Are there restrooms available?
Yes, there are two portable restrooms located in the Poplar parking area. Facilities are also available at Half Moon Bay State Beach, including camping amenities.
What is the trail surface like?
The trail surface consists of paved paths for cyclists and walkers, as well as informal dirt trails for serious birders.
Is the trail suitable for families?
Yes, the Blufftop Coastal Trail is generally suitable for families. However, be mindful of the steepness of the trail and the presence of wildlife. Supervise children closely.
Are there any hazards to be aware of?
The trail involves a steep descent, and there are areas with uneven surfaces. Be aware of the eroding cliff edges and potential for falling rocks. The culvert at the end of the trail can temporarily block access – take the second empty lot east connecting with Ocean Street instead. Exercise caution near the water and cliffs.
How long is the trail?
The trail extends approximately from Poplar to Myrtle Street.
What is the trail’s difficulty level?
The trail is considered moderate due to its steepness and uneven surfaces.
How can I find more information about the trail and its wildlife?
• Check the nearestdoor.com listing for the Blufftop Coastal Trail for maps and additional details.
• Visit the Half Moon Bay Visitor's Bureau website for regional information.
• Explore eBird ([https://ebird.org/](https://ebird.org/)) for recent sightings and birding data. This site is frequently updated by local birders.
• Contact the Half Moon Bay city government for park-specific inquiries: 650-726-8270 (Parks Department) or 650-802-4382.
Are there any restrictions on dogs?
Dogs are permitted on the trail, however, be mindful of other users and wildlife.
How is the Blufftop Coastal Trail maintained?
The trail is maintained by the City of Half Moon Bay.
Are there any recent events or programs related to the trail?
Check local event listings and the Half Moon Bay Visitor's Bureau website for upcoming events.

History

Blufftop Coastal Trail: A Rich History of Birding and Coastal Exploration The Blufftop Coastal Trail, a beloved landmark in Half Moon Bay, California, boasts a history deeply intertwined with both ornithological observation and the natural beauty of the California coastline.

Initially developed as part of the broader Half Moon Bay Coastal Trail system, the trail’s specific origins trace back to a desire to connect residents and visitors with the unique biodiversity of the blufftop prairie and the adjacent ocean.

The trail's construction involved significant grading and pathway development, transforming a former informal dirt track into a formally designed recreational space.

Historically, the trail has served as a critical observation point for birders, attracting serious enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

Notable bird sightings have documented the area’s ecological significance.

In September and October 2011, a substantial migration of Swainson’s Thrushes was observed, a remarkable event that highlighted the trail’s role as a stopover for migrating birds.

Alvaro Jaramillo, a renowned ornithologist, has frequently utilized the trail as a key “patch,” meticulously documenting the area’s avian inhabitants and contributing significantly to our understanding of the local bird populations.

His consistent presence and detailed observations have been instrumental in identifying rare species and tracking seasonal migrations.

The trail’s history is punctuated by other significant bird sightings.

In October 2017, Alvaro Jaramillo discovered a LeConte’s Sparrow, a highly sought-after species, further solidifying the trail’s reputation as a prime location for birders.

Additionally, numerous other species have been documented, including Savannah Sparrows, Western Gulls (often showcasing their distinctive pink feet), White-tailed Kites, and Red-tailed Hawks.

The trail has also served as a site for observing raptors in dynamic interactions, such as the remarkable battle between a Common Raven and a Northern Harrier captured by Mark Bohrer.

Beyond birding, the trail’s history reflects the broader human interaction with the coastal landscape.

The trail’s connection to Wavecrest Open Space via the Seymour Bridge adds another layer to its story, demonstrating a continuous effort to preserve and connect open spaces within the Half Moon Bay area.

Ongoing efforts, as documented in various local resources (including the Half Moon Bay Visitor’s Bureau notes and community-driven photographic collections), underscore the trail’s enduring importance to the community and its role as a cherished natural resource for generations to come.

Data collected through eBird, and the diligent observations of individuals like Alvaro Jaramillo, paint a comprehensive picture of this continually evolving ecosystem, with an astounding 213 species recorded across the forty-eight time quadrants.

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