Hikes
Palo Corona Regional Park, “Inspiration Point”
Inspiration Point Trail to Aminas Pond is 5.7 miles. Good for all skill levels, level low to moderate. You will see cows grazing and an occasional bobcat wondering through the lower fields. Amazing views from Inspiration point of Point Lobos. Picnic Bench at the top. No Dogs allowed.
Soberanes, Garrapata State Park
Level hard, One of our hardest in the area. 5.4 miles, South of Point Lobos Natural reserve. Park in the pullout under the row of Cypress Trees. You will see a barn where the trail begins. I recommend taking the trail to the right to hike through the canyon and amongst the ferns and river to ascend up the backside of Soberanes and then descend the front looking at the views of Highway 1 and the Big Sur coastline. Watch your footing, this is a difficult and steep climb with a steep descent. No dogs allowed, bring a lot of water. Wear good hiking shoes.
Garland Ranch Regional Park
700 West Carmel Valley Road, dog friendly, extensive trails to choose your level of difficulty, views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and Carmel Valley, hike the Waterfall trail to Mesa Pond or climb the steep trails to Snively’s Ridge Trail. Visitors center and restrooms at the bottom showcasing some of our native plants and animals.
Garzas Trailhead
Go east on Carmel Valley Road, turn right on Borronda Road, turn left on East Garzas Road and the trailhead is on the right hand side. 7 mile hike. Level medium to hard hike. Steep incline among the ferns and trees and then descend until you get to the river. Dog friendly. Beautiful river crossings, great picnic spots near river.
Point Lobos Loop Trail
6.7 miles, natural reserve, level moderate, the “Crown Jewel” of the State Parks. Choose a short walk or a long journey, amazing hidden coves, abundance of wildflowers, tide pooling, and rocky beaches, amazing spot for a picnic. Don’t miss the secret cove up the stairs at Whaler’s Cove.
Carmel Valley Ranch, Huff and Puff Trail
Hike a quick trail up to the yoga platform and horse corrals with views of Carmel Valley. If you park at the bottom you can walk through the Carmel Valley Ranch’s gated garden area full of beautiful vegetables and flowers, goats, and bee boxes and pass through their own private winery to where the trail head begins. Dog friendly.
Toro Park
9 miles, 1800 ft elevation, views of Monterey bay and Salinas valley, colorful wildflowers year- round, strenuous climb but beautiful views among the rolling hills. This hike can get quite warm, bring lots of water.
Jacks Peak County Park
Easy walk, sweeping views of the Monterey Bay and Point Lobos, parking is close to the peak so you see a lot of mazing views without having to hike too far.
