This 4-mile out-and-back day hike starts with a troop-provided tailgate lunch at the Sweeney Ridge Trailhead. before embarking on our hike. The midpoint of our hike will be the site where Gaspar de Portolá, assisted by the Ohlone people, made the first European sighting of San Francisco Bay. We will pause there for some history and a Scout-led orienteering exercise before returning the way we came.
This activity is specifically designed for younger and prospective Scouts but will be fun for everyone. Parents and prospective parents are welcome to attend.
About the Site
In 1769, Spain sent Captain Juan Gaspar de Portolá to lead an expedition to stake claim to southern and central California. Portolá and his party of sixty men and 200 horses left from San Diego in search of Monterey Bay, but from their overland approach, they overshot it. Lost, hungry, and sick, they were assisted by the local Ohlone people, who accompanied the explorers to the top of Sweeney Ridge. It was there that the Portolá party became the first Europeans to see San Francisco Bay.
The story continues on the trail…
Length
4.6 mi
Elevation Gain
1,200 ft
Hiking time
2.5–3 hr
Itinerary
Noon
Meet at Sweeney Ridge Trailhead
12:30 pm
Depart
2 pm
Refreshment & Orienteering
3:30 pm
Arrive back at trailhead
4 pm
Arrive back in SF
See route on Alltrails