The morning sun hadn’t risen above the surrounding hills when the first cyclists started down Niles Canyon. Within an hour, they would be joined by thousands of long distance runners, hikers, and more cyclists of all ages for the third annual Niles Canyon Stroll and Roll.

On September 22, local agencies closed down Niles Canyon to raise awareness about a proposed new trail through the Canyon.

Organized by Alameda County Supervisors Scott Haggerty and Richard Valle, dozens of local agency partners participated in the event. The SFPUC provided drinking water at two hydration stations on the southern side of the Canyon. Alameda County Water District provided water at two more hydration stations on the northern end of the Canyon.  We worked together with staff from Alameda County Public Works, the Alameda County Sheriff’s office, California Highway Patrol, City of Fremont, Alameda County Fire Department, Caltrans, and many more.

Organizers expected 10,000 people. If the number of people at the Sunol hydration station and parking lot on SFPUC property was any indicator, the actual numbers far exceeded that. 

This event takes place approximately every other year, so mark your calendars and tune up that bicycle for 2021.