Hiking enthusiasts and history buffs in San Mateo County can soon enjoy a more informative journey through time, thanks to local lawmaker Sen. Josh Becker. The Menlo Park Democrat foraged through the California legislature's budget thicket to pull out a half-million dollars--that'll land squarely on the Ohlone-Portolá Heritage Trail, a 90-mile stretch ripe for both exercising your legs and your grey cells.

The cash injection, presented cheekily by Becker on December 7 to county bigwigs, is slated for an educational facelift of the trail. It's part, after all, of the storied land that saw both the native Ohlone people and Spanish explorers like Gaspar de Portolá tromp around back in the 18th century, as recounted by San Mateo County's official site.

As Becker says, "I'm looking forward to hiking the same paths of the Ohlone ancestors and early explorers." Becker also added, according to the county's announcement, "Through the information on these historic markers, I hope to gain a greater understanding of what life was like for each of them nearly three centuries ago."

Let's tip our hats to the historians, though, since this project isn't just about slapping up a few signs. It digs a bit deeper. The redesignation of the heritage trail back in 2020 not only got an official nod for its historical chops but also a promise to pay homage rightfully, to the Ohlone people. Dave Pine, the county board head honcho, underlined the whole affair saying, "This funding will allow us to inform visitors of a pivotal part of California’s history." Pine's fellow county supervisor, Ray Mueller, chimed in, singing Becker's praises for the funds that promise to keep the parks department's storytelling on point while offering some killer views.