All the cycling data and info you'll need to climb Skyline Blvd (Crystal Springs Reservoir)

Cycling Skyline Blvd from Crystal Reservoir

Ride 6.2 miles gaining 1,746’ at 5.4% average grade.

The climb starts on Rt 92, just after a bridge over Crystal Springs Reservoir.  The climb goes up Rt 92 for a couple of miles and then turns onto Skyline.  However, it might be better to cut out the first 2 miles to avoid Rt 92 and just start on Skyline.  Rt 92 is not a pleasant biking experience.  It is a narrow 2-lane road with a lot of traffic and a very narrow shoulder most of the way.  Plus, the shoulder is often full of debris, including thick gravel, which you are forced to ride through because of the traffic.

Route 92 isn’t much fun  😟

The traffic was courteous, as much as possible, but the traffic really has no where to go, due to the narrow lanes, they aren't able to give a cyclist much room. Big rigs, especially, will pass just inches away. If you are nervous in traffic then definitely skip Rt 92 and start on Skyline.  There is a large parking area at the beginning of Skyline.

After turning onto Skyline the ride is much better.  Skyline has no shoulder but there isn't much traffic, so it's not really a problem.  The pavement is in good condition and there are many long straight areas  with plenty of visibility.

Near the beginning of Skyline there are wide vistas on both sides and you can catch glimpses of the Pacific. The vistas aren't super scenic but it is rare to see the Pacific Ocean from Skyline, so enjoy the views on this portion.

Half Moon Bay in the distance.

As we continue to climb the vistas disappear, hidden by the trees.  The gradient is pretty constant, it's easy to get into a climbing rhythm.  Eventually we reach the top of the climb, which is the Purisima Creek North Ridge Trailhead.  Skyline continues undulating, as rolling terrain, for maybe another 50 miles so you can always add on a few more miles if you skipped the portion of the climb on Rt 92.