Hikes on California’s Central Coast

The Central Coast possesses some of the most scenic hiking in California, especially for those who enjoy ocean views. Numerous small parks protect the area’s green spaces and many are free to the public.

Highlights of California’s Central Coast

  • This 0.6-mile hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park observes a stunning Big Sur waterfall that pours 80 feet right on to the beach.
  • This 1.1-mile hike extends from Highway One to an ocean bluff with fantastic views of the Big Sur Coast.
  • This short hike visits a fine 120-foot waterfall near the start of Salmon Creek Trail in Los Padres National Forest.
  • This 2.85-mile hike crosses a boardwalk along a charming Cambria beach in Hearst San Simeon State Park.
  • This gradual 4.5-mile lollipop loop in Harmony Headlands State Park crosses a coastal valley to reach picturesque ocean bluffs on the rugged coast between Cayucos and Cambria.
  • This level 1 to 3.5-mile stroll starts from Cloisters Park and crosses Morro Strand State Beach to reach Morro Rock.
  • This 6-mile hike in Montaña de Oro State Park ascends coastal ridges to a 1,076-foot summit with panoramic views that include a dynamic perspective of Morro Bay.
  • This easy hike explores tide pools, beaches, and impressive cliffs on the picturesque coast of Montaña de Oro State Park.
  • This 4.5-mile hike summits a 1,347-foot peak in Montaña de Oro State Park with panoramic coastal views.
  • This 3.5-mile hike summits the tallest of the Nine Sisters for excellent views over San Luis Obispo.
  • This 2.5-mile hike just off the 101 Freeway in Gaviota State Park visits wind-carved caves with great ocean views.
  • This 6.5-mile loop mounts a 2,458-foot summit two miles from the Pacific and then descends Trespass Trail to explore the wilds of the Santa Ynez Mountains.
  • This 0.8-mile hike visits the scenic ruins of an estate home built atop the mountains behind Santa Barbara.
  • This 7.7-mile hike reaches a panoramic viewpoint in the Santa Ynez Mountains overlooking Santa Barbara.
  • This 7.1-mile partial loop climbs to a panoramic summit in Los Padres National Forest overlooking Montecito and Santa Barbara.
  • This 1 to 2-mile hike goes from Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve to a viewing area above a harbor seal rookery, offering beach access and beautiful oceanfront hiking.
  • This 19-mile hike follows beautiful Sespe Creek to a relaxing hot springs in the Sespe Wilderness of Los Padres National Forest.
  • This 0.8-mile hike leads to the lower tier of a lovely two-tier 300-foot waterfall in Los Padres National Forest.

Hiking California’s Central Coast

Los Padres National Forest is the major protective body on the Central Coast, preserving mountain ranges that span across Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties. The highest peak in the national forest, Mount Pinos, rises to 8,831 feet. Twenty miles to the south is the tallest waterfall, Rose Valley Falls.

An Adventure Pass ($5 per day or $30 per year) is required to access some trails in the approximately two million acre of land protected by Los Padres National Forest. Adventure Passes for Los Padres National Forest are valid for other national forests in Southern California as well, like Angeles National Forest, Cleveland National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest. Passes may be purchased within the park and at various local retailers. Those without a pass may still enjoy several free entry points that are located outside the national forest boundary. An “America the Beautiful” National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass can also be used in lieu of an adventure pass.

Most of the trails listed below do not require any pass or permit. San Luis Obispo is a particularly great area for hikers, with a high number of free and scenic trails. While it is inland from the ocean, Pinnacles National Park is also included in this region. Take a trip to the Central Coast today!

Central Coast Hiking

This collection of trails in the Central Coast region of California between Monterey County and Ventura County lists hikes from west to east and north to south. The table may also be sorted alphabetically or by distance to help you pick your next hike. Each trail links to its own report complete with photos, GPS maps, elevation profiles, directions, and all the other information needed to locate and enjoy these hikes.

Trail
Description
Distance
Location
High Peaks Balconies Cave Loop Pinnacles National Park005High Peaks - Balconies Cave Loop
This big loop ventures between the east and west sides of Pinnacles National Park, crossing through the High Peaks and Balconies Cave.
9 miles
1,575 feet
36.495027,
-121.173052
High Peaks - Condor Gulch Loop in Pinnacles National Park010High Peaks - Condor Gulch Loop
This loop forges a route through the High Peaks in Pinnacles National Park to offer panoramic views on an incredible trek.
5.3 - 6 miles
1,325 feet
36.4785,
-121.1838
Bear Gulch Reservoir in Pinnacles National Park013Bear Gulch Reservoir
This out and back hike takes a fun course through talus caves to reach a reservoir on the east side of Pinnacles National Park.
1.5 miles
275 feet
36.4785,
-121.1838
Pfeiffer Falls Valley View017Ridge Trail - Panorama Trail - Bluff Trail Loop
This loop in Andrew Molera State Park crosses a coastal ridge, bluff, and beach that are packed with amazing Big Sur views.
8.7 miles
1,100 feet
36.287409,
-121.8441
Pfeiffer Falls Valley View020Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View
This out and back trek is like two hikes in one, reaching a waterfall in a canyon of redwoods and a vista point overlooking the Big Sur River Valley.
2.4 miles
550 feet
36.25066,
-121.7858
Pfeiffer Falls Valley View022Nature Trail - River Path Loop
This easy loop explores woodlands along the Big Sur River and a redwood grove that includes the unique and impressive Proboscis Tree.
0.55 miles
15 feet
36.250472,
-121.781215
Big Sur River Gorge025Big Sur River Gorge
This off-trail hike ventures up the Big Sur River on a water-wading boulder-hopping adventure to a crystal clear pool that’s a gorgeous Big Sur swimming hole.
0.5
50 feet
36.2464,
-121.7721
Pfeiffer Beach030Pfeiffer Beach
This short walk reaches an absolutely stunning beach that's a classic feature of the Big Sur landscape.
0.2 miles (or more)
10 feet
36.2382,
-121.81353
Partington Cove050Partington Cove
This out and back hike visits a tunnel-accessed cove and a secluded beach along the scenic coast of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
1.5 miles
270 feet
36.1770,
-121.6937
Canyon Trail Big Sur053Canyon Falls
This out and back hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Parkheads inland up McWay Creek past a picnic area in a redwood grove to a lovely little waterfall.
0.9 miles
225 feet
36.16014, -121.668523
McWay Falls055McWay Falls
This out and back hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park looks out on a stunning Big Sur waterfall that pours 80 feet right on to the beach.
0.6 miles
50 feet
36.1587,
-121.67054
Limekiln Trail Limekiln Falls Hare Creek hike057Hare Creek Trail, Limekiln Trail, and Falls Trail
This out and back hike in Limekiln State Park explores a trio of trails along lovely streams in redwood-lined canyons, reaching Limekiln Falls and historic lime kilns.
2.65 miles
250 feet
36.010436,
-121.518588
Pacific Valley Bluff Trail060Pacific Valley Bluff Trail
This short out and back hike extends from Highway One to an ocean bluff with fantastic views of the Big Sur Coast.
1.1 miles
50 feet
35.932648,
-121.468927
Sand Dollar Beach063Sand Dollar Beach
This short hike to Big Sur's longest beach passes two scenic overlooks on the way to the sand.
0.5 miles (or more)
125 feet
35.921639,
-121.466913
Jade Cove065Jade Cove and Plaskett Rock Point
This loop across ocean bluff visits a prominent peninsula and a small cove.
1.5 miles
150 feet
35.91705,
-121.46905
Cruickshank Trail hike070Cruickshank Trail
This hike into Silver Peak Wilderness starts with bold ocean views and crosses redwood groves to reach Upper Cruickshank Camp at a junction with Buckeye Trail, 2.5 miles from Highway One.
5 - 9.25 miles
1,150 - 1,925 feet
35.843073,
-121.403025
Buckeye Trail075Buckeye Trail
This hike reaches incredible ocean vistas and trail camps in the Silver Peak Wilderness. Connect Cruickshank Trail and Buckeye Trail for an excellent shuttle hike of 8.25 miles or more.
6.5 - 9.25 miles
1,450 - 1,925 feet
35.821754,
-121.374454
Salmon Creek Falls080Salmon Creek Falls
This out and back hike visits a fine 120-foot waterfall near the start of Salmon Creek Trail.
0.25 miles
60 feet
35.816032,
-121.356699
Point Piedras Blancas075Piedras Blancas
This out and back hike ventures up the coast from the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery to Piedras Blancas Light Station.
3.2 - 4.2 miles
25 feet
35.664401,
-121.262713
Moonstone Beach Boardwalk085Moonstone Beach Boardwalk
This out and back hike crosses a boardwalk along a charming Cambria beach in Hearst San Simeon State Park.
2.85 miles
40 feet
35.568999,
-121.105867
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Bluff Trail086Bluff Trail (in Fiscalini Ranch Preserve)
This easy stroll crosses beautiful undeveloped coastline at the center of Cambria.
1.85 - 1.9 miles
50 - 80 feet
35.55613,
-121.1024
Harmony Headlands Trail088Headlands Trail
This gradual lollipop loop in Harmony Headlands State Park crosses a coastal valley to reach picturesque ocean bluffs on the rugged coast between Cayucos and Cambria.
4.5 miles
135 feet
35.477783,
-120.992263
Cerro Alto090Cerro Alto
This semi-loop bags one of the highest peaks in San Luis Obispo County.
5.35 miles
1,600 feet
35.424271,
-120.738988
Morro Rock095Morro Rock via Morro Strand Trail
This level stroll starts from Cloisters Park and crosses Morro Strand State Beach to reach Morro Rock.
1 - 3.5 miles
25 feet
35.38898,
-120.860108
Black Hill Trail098Black Hill
This out and back hike in Morro Bay State Park summits of one of the Nine Sisters with 360-degree views over Morro Bay.
0.6 miles
175 feet
35.358059,
-120.833378
Turtle Rock100Turtle Rock
This easy out and back hike reaches a short rise between Black Hill and Cerro Cabrillo in Morro Bay State Park.
2.1 miles
200 feet
35.346512,
-120.825198
Cerro Cabrillo115Cerro Cabrillo
This tough out and back hike summits the highest mountain in Morro Bay State Park, a 911-foot member of the Nine Sisters.
2.5 miles
900 feet
35.346512,
-120.825198
Portola Point120Portola Point
This loop explores a short hill in Morro Bay State Park just east of Morro Estuary with an easy-to-reach ocean overlook.
2 miles
315 feet
35.346512,
-120.825198
Crespi Trail Hike Morro Bay122Chumash & Crespi Trails Loop
This hike in Morro Bay State Park visits an oak grove and bay views by combining Chumash Trail, Crespi Trail, and Hutash Trail.
2.9 miles
420 feet
35.3315,
-120.81645
Eagle Rock Nature Trail125Eagle Rock Nature Trail
This loop climbs to Eagle Rock Viewpoint in El Chorro Regional Park for an overview of the valley between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay.
2.4 miles
450 feet
35.33567,
-120.727234
Elfin Forest130Elfin Forest Natural Reserve
This easy boardwalk loop explores a pygmy forest on the edge of Morro Bay.
1 mile
80 feet
35.331678,
-120.82539
Morro Dunes135Morro Dunes Ecological Reserve
This lollipop loop serves up panoramic views over Morro Bay as it climbs from Los Osos to Montaña de Oro State Park.
2.6 miles
800 feet
35.308454,
-120.843157
Los Osos Oaks140Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve
This short hikes explores a pygmy forest of coast live oaks, providing a shady level stroll on overlapping loops.
0.75 - 1.5 miles
25 feet
35.306274,
-120.813509
Hazard Canyon Reef145Hazard Canyon Reef
This short hike in Montaña de Oro State Park descends an oceanfront ravine to a rocky shoreline graced with engaging tide pools.
1 mile
100 feet
35.285512,
-120.881105
Hazard Peak via Bloody Nose Trail, Hiedra Trail, and Hazard Peak Trail145Hazard Peak via Bloody Nose Trail, Hiedra Trail, and Hazard Peak Trail
This hike rises through a eucalyptus grove and views of Morro Bay to a panoramic summit in Montaña de Oro State Park.
5.55 miles
950 feet
35.2854,
-120.8801
South Dune Trail – Bloody Nose Trail – Hiedra Trail – Hazard Peak Trail Loop148South Dune Trail – Bloody Nose Trail – Hiedra Trail – Hazard Peak Trail Loop
This four-trail loop through dunes and eucalyptus trees rises to lovely coastal views.
2.67 miles
310 feet
35.277106,
-120.884546
Hazard Peak150Hazard Peak Trail
This out and back hike in Montaña de Oro State Park ascends coastal ridges to a 1,076-foot summit with panoramic views that include a dynamic perspective of Morro Bay.
6 miles
950 feet
35.277106,
-120.884546
Hazard Peak Loop155Hazard Peak - Islay Creek Loop
This Montaña de Oro State Park loop continues beyond Hazard Peak deeper into the Irish Hills before circling back to the coast on Islay Creek Trail.
9.2 miles
1,00 feet
35.277106,
-120.884546
Islay Creek160Islay Creek Trail
This easy out and back hike in Montaña de Oro State Park follows a wide trail up a coastal canyon flanked by thousand-foot peaks, passing a small waterfall to reach an abandoned barn.
6 miles
300 feet
35.276412,
-120.885504
Reservoir Flats Trail Montana de Oro164Reservoir Flats Trail
This loop delivers fine ocean and canyon views as it explores the bottom of Islay Creek Canyon in Montaña de Oro State Park.
2 miles
200 feet
35.273872,
-120.88553
Oats Peak Hike167Oats Peak
This out and back hike reaches a panoramic summit that looks down over Montaña de Oro State Park.
10.8 miles
1,325 feet
35.273872,
-120.88553
Valencia Peak170Valencia Peak
This out and back hike summits a 1,347-foot peak with panoramic views over Montaña de Oro State Park.
4.5 miles
1,275 feet
35.272858,
-120.888755
Bluff Trail180Bluff Trail (in Montaña de Oro State Park)
This out and back hike of around three miles tours tide pools, beaches, and impressive cliffs along a picturesque coastline.
1 - 5 miles
90 -140 feet
35.2728,
-120.8887
Montaña de Oro Badger Trail182Rattlesnake Flats Trail – Badger Trail – Bluff Trail Loop
This loop offers a twist on the Bluff Trail, going along and just above the coast of Montaña de Oro State Park.
1.65 miles
150 feet
35.272858,
-120.888755
Coon Creek Trail188Coon Creek Trail
This out and back hike ventures up a coastal canyon at the south end of Montaña de Oro State Park.
5 miles
250 feet
35.257927,
-120.886988
Point Buchon190Point Buchon Trail
This short scenic loop or longer out-and-back hike explores the beautiful coastline south of Montaña de Oro State Park.
1.33 - 6.8 miles
75 feet
35.257964,
-120.887483
East Cuesta Ridge192East Cuesta Ridge
This wide dirt road offers out and back hikes to the tops of Mount Lowe and Lopez Canyon Trail, offering ocean views over San Luis Obispo and inland views over an evergreen wilderness.
8.4 - 10.2 miles
1,015 - 1,075 feet
35.34995,
-120.63175
West Cuesta Ridge193Cuesta Ridge Botanical Area
This out and back hike crosses a ridge in the Santa Lucia Mountains with panoramic views over San Luis Obispo, ascending to a grove of Sargent cypress in a botanical area in Los Padres National Forest.
6 miles
950 feet
35.347125,
-120.63045
Stenner Creek Trail The Eucs195Stenner Creek Trail to The Eucs
This out and back hike goes up Stenner Creek Canyon past a small waterfall and views of Bishop Peak to a collection of freeride bike trails called the Eucs.
3.7 miles
650 feet
35.33016,
-120.6631
Stenner Creek Trail – Red Dog Trail – Poly Canyon Road Loop196Stenner Creek Trail – Red Dog Trail – Poly Canyon Road Loop
This loop goes beyond the Eucs atop Stenner Creek Trail to explore grass-covered slopes at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains.
4.25 miles
550 feet
35.33016,
-120.6631
Cal Poly Design Village200Poly Canyon Design Village
This lollipop loop hike visits an architectural village designed by Cal Poly students at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains.
2.5 miles
300 feet
35.30445,
-120.65845
Felsman Loop Trail208Felsman Loop Trail
This loop crosses oak, sagebrush, and grass-covered slopes around the base of Bishop Peak, providing excellent views of that notable rocky summit and its San Luis Obispo surroundings.
2.7 miles
525 feet
35.30433,
-120.685438
Bishop Peak210Bishop Peak
This out and back hike summits the tallest of the Nine Sisters for excellent views over San Luis Obispo.
3.5 miles
950 feet
35.30433,
-120.685438
Reservoir Canyon220Reservoir Canyon Trail
This steep hike passes a waterfall and a collection of junk sculptures en route to a treeless summit overlooking San Luis Obispo.
5.35 miles
1,350 feet
35.29097,
-120.6280
Summit Trail Bell Tower Hike221Reservoir Canyon Summit Trail
This hike ascends to a point on the northwest end of the ridge above Reservoir Canyon, presenting panoramic views over San Luis Obispo from the base of an old tower with a bell that can be rung with a thrown pebble.
4.1 miles
1,175 feet
35.29097,
-120.6280
Reservoir Canyon Summit Loop222Reservoir Canyon Trail - Summit Trail Loop
This loop ventures up Reservoir Canyon Trail to the summit viewpoint, crosses Ridge Trail to the bell tower, and descends Summit Trail back into Reservoir Canyon.
5.6 miles
1,350 feet
35.29097,
-120.6280
Reservoir Canyon Creek Bypass Trail Loop224Creek Bypass Trail Loop
This short hike connects Summit Trail and Reservoir Canyon Trail with a short trail offering broad canyon views.
1 mile
150 feet
35.29097,
-120.6280
Rinconada Trail225Rinconada Trail & Bell Mountain
This hike near Santa Margarita ascends past an old mercury mine and bucolic views to a grassy saddle with a sweeping perspective over the Santa Lucia Mountains. Extend the outing to a nearby summit for even grander vistas.
3 - 3.25 miles
625 - 865 feet
35.28995,
-120.47485
Lemon Grove Trail230Lemon Grove Loop Trail
This easy loop visits a historic lemon grove on the eastern slopes of Cerro San Luis.
2.2 miles
300 feet
35.2749,
-120.67237
M & Lemon Grove Trail235Lemon Grove & "M" Trails Loop
This outing uses all of the "M" Trail and part of Lemon Grove Loop Trail for a scenic circuit on the east side of Cerro San Luis.
2.4 miles
560 feet
35.2749,
-120.67237
Cerro San Luis240Cerro San Luis
This hike summits one of the Nine Sisters just west of downtown San Luis Obispo.
4 - 5 miles
1,100 feet
35.2749,
-120.67237
M Trail on Cerro San Luis250"M" Trail
This spur off the trail up Cerro San Luis leads to a large white "M" installed halfway up the east side of the mountain.
1.9 miles
560 feet
35.274897,
-120.672369
Cerro San Luis Laguna Lake255Cerro San Luis from Laguna Lake Park
This out and back hike summits one of the Nine Sisters just west of downtown San Luis Obispo.
5.7 miles
1,150 feet
35.26521,
-120.68274
Murray Hill260Sydney Street Trail to Murray Hill (Unnamed Hill)
This out and back hike climbs a steep rugged trail to a stone seating area at a panoramic summit.
2.8 miles
1,275 feet
35.27307,
-120.641322
Terrace Hill Open Space267Terrace Hill
This hike tours a flattened mountaintop in the city of San Luis Obispo that hosts panoramic views of the surroundings.
0.55 miles
110 feet
35.2725,
-120.64886
South Hills270South Hills Ridge Trail
This out and back hike visits the top of a cluster of hills near downtown San Luis Obispo, offering fine views over the city and surroundings.
1.5 miles
425 feet
35.2666,
-120.66434
Morro View280Morro View in the Irish Hills
This out and back hike in Irish Hills Natural Reserve delivers panoramic views over Los Osos Valley and the full chain of Morros.
3.15 miles
850 feet
35.262195,
-120.71195
Froom Creek290Froom Creek Trail Loop in the Irish Hills
This loop explores a canyon on the east side of the Irish Hills before ascending to a nice view over Laguna Lake, Cerro San Luis, and Bishop Peak.
3 miles
500 feet
35.25431,
-120.69525
Old Prospector Trail295Old Prospector Trail Loop in the Irish Hills
This lollipop loop hike ventures up a rugged ravine off Froom Canyon to the ruins of an old mine.
3.4 - 4.4 miles
650 feet
35.25431,
-120.69525
Islay Hill300Islay Hill
This out and back hike summits San Luis Obispo's easternmost Morro.
1.8 miles
550 feet
35.243296,
-120.627131
Johnson Ranch Irish Hills San Luis Obispo308Johnson Ranch - Irish Hills Connector Trail
This scenic point-to-point hike connects Johnson Ranch Open Space with Irish Hills Natural Reserve.
5 - 10 miles
575 feet
35.223448,
-120.693313
Johnson Ranch310Johnson Ranch Loop
This loop explores rolling hills in a grassy open space just south of San Luis Obispo.
2.5 - 3.7 miles
200 feet
35.223448,
-120.693313
Point San Luis Lighthouse315Point San Luis Lighthouse via Pecho Coast Trail
This docent-led hike crosses scenic coastal bluffs to reach the historic lighthouse on Point San Luis.
3.5 miles
300 feet
35.174146,
-120.756013
Bob Jones Trail320Bob Jones Bike Trail
This easy round trip hike or ride follows San Luis Obispo Creek to Avila Beach.
5 miles
50 feet
35.185651,
-120.703016
Sycamore Crest Trail330Sycamore Crest Trail
This out and back hike ascends the north slope of Ontario Hill to a scenic ocean view perch.
1.75 - 3.25 miles
575 feet
35.186,
-120.7146
Shell Beach Bluff Trail340Shell Beach Bluff Trail - Ontario Ridge Trail
This loop explores the coast between Shell Beach and Avila Beach, on and below a 700-foot ridge.
2.8 miles
675 feet
35.1758,
-120.7192
Cave Landing350Cave Landing
This short out and back hike descends to a natural rock bridge at the end of a headland east of Avila Beach.
0.5 miles
100 feet
35.1758,
-120.7192
Hi Mountain Trail370Hi Mountain Trail
This short trail goes through many phases as it explores the Santa Lucia Mountains east of Arroyo Grande and combines with part of Hi Mountain Road to form a loop.
3.25 miles
575 feet
35.2075,
-120.38237
Oso Flaco Lake Trail380Oso Flaco Lake Trail
This hike takes a boardwalk over a coastal lake and across sand dunes to an out-of-the-way beach.
2 miles or more
25 feet
35.0288,
-120.6171
Nojoqui Falls550Nojoqui Falls
This short out and back hike visits an 80-foot tall fern-lined waterfall.
0.65 miles
175 feet
34.528556,
-120.172473
Gaviota Pass Overlook550Gaviota Pass Overlook Loop
This loop tours scenic ridges in Gaviota State Park to arrive at a soaring overlook above the Gaviota Tunnel.
6.5 miles
650 feet
34.507693,
-120.22795
Gaviota Peak560Gaviota Peak
This loop mounts a 2,458-foot summit two miles from the Pacific and then descends Trespass Trail to explore the wilds of the Santa Ynez Mountains.
6.5 miles
2,150 feet
34.5046,
-120.2259
Gaviota Hot SPrings570Gaviota Hot Springs
This short hike visits a warm hot springs along the trail to Gaviota Peak.
1 mile
400 feet
34.5046,
-120.2259
Tunnel View580Tunnel View and Trespass Trails Loop
This loop steals views over the 101 Freeway and the Gaviota Tunnel from Gaviota State Park.
2.6 miles
600 feet
34.5046,
-120.2259
Gaviota Wind Caves590Gaviota Wind Caves
This out and back hike just off the 101 Freeway in Gaviota State Park visits wind-carved caves with great ocean views.
2.5 miles
650 feet
34.47172,
-120.2297
El Capitan State Beach Nature Trail595Nature Trail in El Capitán State Beach
This loop explores a lush sycamore grove bordering El Capitán Creek to approach the rocky shore at the end of El Capitán Point.
0.35 miles
18 feet
34.460105,
-120.023608
Tequepis Trail600Tequepis Trail
This out and back hike delivers views of Lake Cachuma as it climbs the Santa Ynez mountains to a saddle overlooking the Pacific.
8.4 miles
2,300 feet
34.5525,
-119.9565
Castle Ruins610Knapp's Castle
This easy hike visits the scenic ruins of an estate home built atop the mountains behind Santa Barbara.
0.8 miles
50 feet
34.518155,
-119.793234
Santa Barbara Painted Cave620Chumash Painted Cave
This very short trail looks in on Native American rock art in the Santa Ynez Mountains.
0.1 miles
20 feet
34.50448,
-119.78773
Lizards Mouth630Lizard’s Mouth
This short out and back hike visits a unique rock formation with amazing views over Santa Barbara and the Pacific.
0.5 miles
25 feet
34.503055,
-119.86569
Jesusita Trail640Inspiration Point from San Roque Road
This out and back hike up the western side of Jesusita Trail reaches a panoramic perch in the Santa Ynez Mountains overlooking Santa Barbara.
7.55 miles
1,400 feet
34.45432,
-119.72875
Inspiration Point Tunnel Road642Inspiration Point from Tunnel Road
This out and back hike combines Tunnel Trail and Jesusita Trail to ascend Mission Canyon to a sweeping viewpoint that looks down over Santa Barbara and up into the Santa Ynez Mountains.
3.75 miles
825 feet
34.46492,
-119.71272
Tangerine Falls650Tangerine Falls
This out and back hike crosses a lush canyon to a beautiful waterfall on the edge of Los Padres National Forest near Santa Barbara.
875 feet
34.45605,
-119.6533
Montecito Peak660Montecito Peak
This partial loop climbs to a panoramic summit in Los Padres National Forest overlooking Montecito and Santa Barbara.
7.1 miles
2,450 feet
34.456058,
-119.6533
McMenemy Overlook670McMenemy Overlook
This hike uses four trails to form a loop to a vista point in the Santa Ynez Mountains behind Montecito.
3.7 miles
1,000 feet
34.446008,
-119.622303
Ennisbrook Trail Montecito673Ennisbrook Trail
This easy lollipop loop crosses charming stone bridges over San Ysidro Creek to explore a lush oak forest that is flooded by nasturtiums in the spring.
1.85 miles
150 feet
34.425482,
-119.622238
Carpiteria Salt Marsh680Carpinteria Salt Marsh Nature Park
This level out and back hike explores El Estuaro, a vital ecosystem for shorebirds.
1.2 miles
10 feet
34.395872,
-119.528247
Carpinteria Bluffs690Carpinteria Bluffs Trail to Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary Overlook
This short hike goes from Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve to a viewing area above a harbor seal rookery, offering beach access and beautiful oceanfront hiking.
1 - 2 miles
25 - 100 feet
34.386929,
-119.498625
Sespe Creek800Sespe Creek to Willett Hot Springs
This out and back hike follows Sespe Creek to a relaxing hot springs.
19 miles
500 feet
34.5605,
-119.1648
Rose Valley Falls810Rose Valley Falls
This out and back hike leads to the lower tier of a lovely two-tier 300-foot waterfall.
0.8 miles
150 feet
34.5317,
-119.1829
Wheeler Gorge Trail820Wheeler Gorge
This loop explores the creek and forest on a nature trail around a 70-site campground in Los Padres National Forest.
0.7 miles
100 feet
34.518444,
-119.271208
Horn Canyon Trail823Horn Canyon Trail
This hike in Ojai goes up a canyon in the frontcountry of the Topatopa Mountains and ventures off trail along the soothing waters of Thacher Creek.
2.9 miles
750 feet
34.46337,
-119.17838
Sisar Canyon Trail824Sisar Canyon Trail
This hike travels up a canyon to a viewpoint in the Topatopa Mountains between Ojai and Santa Paula.
5.5 - 6.5 miles
1,125 - 1,200 feet
34.44338,
-119.13567
Santa Paula Canyon Trail Punchbowl827Santa Paula Canyon Trail to the Punchbowl
This hike ventures up rugged Santa Paula Canyon to a waterfall and a Punchbowl of pools and cascades in Santa Paula Creek by Big Cone Camp.
8 miles
800 feet
34.4262,
-119.0894
Emma Wood State Beach830Ocean's Edge and River's Edge Trails Loop
This level loop in Emma Wood State Beach borders the Pacific Ocean, the Ventura River, and an estuary flocked by seabirds.
1.5 mile
25 feet
34.28057,
-119.315346
La Jolla Canyon840La Jolla Canyon Loop
This hike explores Point Mugu State Park on the west end of the Santa Monica Mountains, offering incredible ocean views.
11.75 miles
1,250 feet
34.086097,
-119.03688
Mugu Peak850Mugu Peak
This out and back hike from La Jolla Canyon to the 1,266-foot summit features superb ocean and canyon views.
6.5 miles
1,250 feet
34.092697,
-119.055712
La Jolla Canyon Falls860La Jolla Canyon Falls
This out and back hike visits a short seasonal waterfall in Point Mugu State Park.
1.5 miles
250 feet
34.093047,
-119.043134
Overlook Trail870Scenic and Overlook Trails Loop
This loop takes in tremendous ocean views above Big Sycamore Canyon in Point Mugu State Park.
2.7 - 3.5 miles
450 to 550 feet
34.071305,
-119.012668
The Grotto Malibu880Grotto
This out and back hike visits a remote grotto in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.
3 miles
500 feet
34.109292,
-118.937438
Sandstone Peak890Sandstone Peak
This loop summits the tallest peak in the Santa Monica Mountains.
6.25 miles
1,075 feet
34.111576, -118.926766
Tri Peaks900Tri Peaks
This 1-mile addition to the Sandstone Peak loop adds extra views to the hike.
7.45 miles
1,075 feet
34.111576, -118.926766
Angel Vista Thousand Oaks910Angel Vista via Rosewood Trail
This out and back hike is the most direct route to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Conejo Valley.
4 miles
800 feet
34.176802,
-118.912804
Angel Vista920Angel Vista via West Los Robles Trail
This out and back hike reaches an overlook on the north side of the Santa Monica mountains overlooking Thousand Oaks.
7.6 miles
800 feet
34.1719,
-118.881
Oak Creek Canyon Trail922Oak Creek Canyon Trail
This loop starts with an all-access nature trail with signs in English and Braille before transitioning to a less developed dirt single track, looping through chaparral and oak woodlands in Los Robles Open Space.
0.8 miles
200 feet
34.1753,
-118.8856
Tarantula Hill Thousand Oaks hike925Tarantula Hill
This out and back hike follows a paved trail to the top of a small, round hill in Thousand Oaks with views across the Conejo Valley into the surrounding mountains.
1 mile
275 feet
34.195528,
-118.885343
Paradise Falls930Paradise Falls in Wildwood Park
This loop visits a 40-foot waterfall in the open spaces of Thousand Oaks.
2.55 miles
260 feet
34.2200,
-118.9028
Lizard Rock940Lizard Rock
To add extra mileage and views to a visit to Paradise Falls in Thousand Oaks, consider placing Lizard Rock on your itinerary.
4.35 miles
570 feet
34.2200,
-118.9028
Rocky Peak950Rocky Peak
This hike climbs to a 2,715-foot summit in Rocky Peak Park in the Santa Susana Mountains between Chatsworth and Simi Valley.
4.75 miles
1,100 feet
34.268362,
-118.636155
China Flat Simi Peak Trail955China Flat & Simi Peak
This hike ventures up rugged ridges to a peaceful oak savanna and a trail to the highest point in the Simi Hills, sporting 360-degree views of surrounding mountain ranges.
5.45 - 6.2 miles
1,090 feet
34.19536,
-118.77684
Cave of Munits and Castle Peak960Cave of Munits and Castle Peak
This action-packed two-attraction loop crosses through an impressive cave to climb to a rocky peak with views over the San Fernando Valley.
2.1 miles
750 feet
34.195322,
-118.658543
hikespeak
M Trail Loop Lemon Grove Loop Trail Hike Cerro San Luis Madonna Mountain Hike to the M San Luis Obispo California
The mountain named Cerro San Luis is one of the top places to hike in San Luis Obispo, and its trailhead is actually in walking distance from downtown SLO. If you're drawn to the large white “M” on the side of the mountain, you're in luck! Not only is the “M” reachable as an extension of the hike to the summit, but thanks to trail created in 2017, hikers can touch... Read more.
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Tagged with · Free Trails · Morros
Distance: 2.4 miles · Elevation change: 560 feet
By: Published: Last updated: March 19, 2021
Reservoir Canyon Creek Bypass Trail loop hike San Luis Obispo California
During the late teens of the 22nd century, San Luis Obispo has developed Reservoir Canyon Natural Reserve into a versatile hiking destination, with upgraded trails and features. Reservoir Canyon Trail and Summit Trail deliver great half-day hikes. However, a shorter option exists that packs Reservoir Canyon into a one-mile experience with 150 feet of elevation change. Use Creek Bypass... Read more.
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Tagged with · Free Trails · Reservoir Canyon Natural Reserve · Waterfalls
Distance: 1 mile · Elevation change: 150 feet
By: Published: Last updated: February 12, 2019
Reservoir Canyon Trail Summit Trail Loop San Luis Obispo Hike Bowden Ranch Reservoir Canyon Natural Reserve
If you've hiked up the hill east of downtown San Luis Obispo on Reservoir Canyon Trail or Summit Trail, you've probably pondered the prospect of connecting the two hikes in order to spend more time enjoying grand views over San Luis Obispo County. Follow Reservoir Canyon Trail up to a stone bench viewpoint, cross Ridge Trail to an old tower housing a bell, and descend Summit Trail to... Read more.
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Tagged with · Free Trails · Reservoir Canyon Natural Reserve · Summits
Distance: 5.6 miles · Elevation change: 1350 feet
By: Published: Last updated: February 13, 2019
Reservoir Canyon Summit Trail San Luis Obispo Hike to High School Hill Tower Bowden Ranch Open Space
You'll give a ringing endorsement to this San Luis Obispo hike! Reservoir Canyon's Summit Trail ascends to sweeping panoramas over San Luis Obispo and an old tower with a bell that you can ring with a pebble. The hike from Reservoir Canyon to the High School Hill Tower is 4.1 miles round trip with 1,175 feet of elevation change. Expand your horizons from there by following Ridge Trail up to... Read more.
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Tagged with · Free Trails · Reservoir Canyon Natural Reserve · Summits
Distance: 4.1 miles · Elevation change: 1175 feet
By: Published: Last updated: February 13, 2019
Hazard Peak Bloody Nose Trail Hiedra Trail Hazard Peak Trail Hike Montaña de Oro State Park Hike California
The panoramic summit of Hazard Peak in Montaña de Oro State Park has excellent coastal views. Hazard Peak Trail is the most obvious route to the top and a great choice, rising to the 1,076-foot summit over 3 miles. A junction partway up Hazard Peak Trail makes it possible to add a couple other trails to the approach. Bloody Nose Trail and Hiedra Trail are a combined 0.85 miles long,... Read more.
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Tagged with · California State Parks · Free Trails · Irish Hills · Los Osos · Ocean Views · Montaña de Oro State Park
Distance: 5.55 miles · Elevation change: 950 feet
By: Published: Last updated: May 20, 2017