Bay Crossing Traditional Cache

This cache is located at the end of a 0.6 mile hike along a levee in Ravenswood Open Space Preserve. The preserve is open during daylight hours only. The levee is bumpy, making it unsuitable for small children or people with weak ankles. This cache is not recommended after rain, as the levee mud will be very sticky. Though bicycles are allowed, this will be a rough ride. There is plenty of drinking water nearby, but you won't have access to it.

Be sure to bring a pen.

In May 1923, construction began on the first Bay Crossing pipeline just south of where the Dumbarton Bridge spans the bay. Construction of the original Dumbarton Bridge, the first bridge to span San Francisco Bay, began the following year. The pipeline was placed into partial service in September 1925, and into full service in May 1926.

In November 1933, a bond issue for $12.1M was passed to construct a second Bay Crossing pipeline, Crystal Springs pipeline, distribution reservoirs, and water system improvements. The pipeline was completed in June, 1936, and a third pipeline was completed in 1956. Together the Bay Division pipelines could deliver 280 million gallons of water per day to the Peninsula. The fourth pipeline was completed in June, 1972.

These pipelines form a part of the Hetch Hetchy Aqueduct, carrying water from Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in Yosemite to Crystal Springs Reservoir west of San Carlos. A small peanut-butter jar is located near these huge pipes just south-west of their bay crossing. Be careful that you don't miss the Ravenswood exit (off Hwy 84, approximately 3/4 mile east of University Avenue) or your bay crossing will be on the Dumbarton Bridge.

09/16/10 Update: The trail is much improved as part of the South Bay Salt Ponds Restoration project. Though there hasn't been time for vegetation to take hold, this area is already being frequented by many bird species.