Sheep Camp Trail is a seldomly used path that connects upper
Belmont/San Carlos to Crystal Springs Trail. It extends from
Hallmark Avenue in Belmont beneath I-280, and continues down to
Canada Road and the Crystal Springs Trail. It runs through the
scenic and recreational easement next to the San Francisco
Watershed. The short stretch between 280 and Canada Road is the
most pleasant part of the walk.
You are soon separated from freeway noise and welcomed into a
quiet forest area with small meadows. Much of this portion is quite
level with a drop to Canada Road near the end.
Along the way, you will see some wonderful coastal and black oak
trees covered with brilliant green moss. A little farther on, you
will see a forest of pine trees on the north side of the trail, but
very few pines are on the south side. These are Knobcone pine, a
native to California found on dry slopes and adapting well in poor
soil conditions.
It is somewhat frustrating that the trail is well fenced on both
sides with access to the adjacent watershed prohibited. The woods
and meadows on either side appear interesting and inviting.
The cache is a decon container. Please rehide it carefully.
The closest legal parking is at the rest stop off of 280 or at the
Pulgulas Water Temple off of Canada. Parking at both of these spots
is allowed during daylight hours only.