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The scenic stretch of Niles Canyon Road between Fremont and Sunol is scheduled for closure Sunday to accommodate runners, hikers and cyclists for the 2022 Niles Canyon Stroll and Roll.
The event, being held for the fourth time in six years, raises awareness about a proposed new trail through the canyon that would expand public access to the Alameda Creek’s forest flanks, historic landmarks and sweeping vistas.
Alameda County District 2 Supervisor Richard Valle and District 1 Supervisor David Haubert are proponents of the Niles Canyon recreation trail to connect trail systems on either side of the Canyon and have co-sponsored the event since its inception.
“The Niles Canyon Stroll and Roll grew out of community engagement in 2014 and 2015 while the county and its partners were conducting a trail feasibility study,” Valle said. “Developing a Class I, bike- and pedestrian-friendly, trail through Niles Canyon will provide a safe and accessible route through the historic and beautiful Niles Canyon connecting trails on the bay side of the canyon to the Tri-Valley.”
Cyclists have repeatedly called for a trail through Niles Canyon due to safety concerns stemming from sharing the narrow, two-lane roadway with vehicles, while recreation enthusiasts point out that pedestrian access is prohibited on the state highway and argue a trail would provide a vital link between trail networks in the Tri-Valley and Alameda County’s bay-front corridor.
The event gives participants opportunities to discuss proposals for a Niles Canyon trail, including one for a 10-foot paved pathway running almost entirely along the north side of Niles Canyon Road, with staff from Alameda County and the East Bay Regional Park District.
“The Stroll and Roll is a great opportunity to learn more about the efforts to build a trail through the canyon and experience first-hand what generations of residents and travelers experienced prior to the construction of the state highway (84),” Valle said.
To keep participants safe, automobiles will be barred from a stretch of Niles Canyon Road between Mission Boulevard in Fremont and Main Street in Sunol until 2 p.m. Sunday (May 1). Participating cyclists are also encouraged to arrive between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., which allows them to ride along the winding canyon trail unencumbered by walkers and runners.
Approximately 10,000 people are expected to participate in this year’s event. Free parking is available on both sides of Niles Canyon, with parking available on the Sunol side at 11600 Pleasanton Sunol Road and at the Fremont BART Station, 2000 Bart Way and Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area, 2100 Isherwood Way, on the Fremont side. Free shuttle service at Quarry Lakes and the Fremont BART station is also available.
Visit www.84strollroll.com for additional information on the Niles Canyon multi-use trail proposal and this Sunday’s road closure.
