SLO County Market Update & Article on Local Central Coast Hikes
*INTERESTING FACT –
California live oaks in El Moro Elfin Forest grow just 4 to 20 feet tall, while elsewhere, these trees could reach heights up to 50 feet. The harsh conditions of their environment, including poor soil, salt spray and constant winds, have naturally stunted their growth.
LOCAL HIKES
From rugged coastal cliffs to oak-studded hills, San Luis Obispo County has a trail for every kind of hiker. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape, a challenging climb, or a peaceful walk through nature, there’s always another path to discover. In this newsletter, we’ll explore some of the trails, views, and unique landscapes that make hiking SLO County such a special way to experience the Central Coast.
AVILA BEACH
Bob Jones – Easy
Also known as the City to the Sea Trail, Bob Jones is a 2.5 mile, paved, walking and biking path that ends downtown in Avila Beach.
7009 Ontario Road
Sycamore Crest & Ontario Ridge – Difficult
Sycamore Crest is a steep 1.7 mile out-and-back trail behind Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort. It follows a wide gravel path through lush oaks. The trail meets up with the Ontario Ridge Trail, where your hike can be extended to the bluff above Shell Beach with spectacular ocean views.
1215 Avila Beach Drive
PISMO BEACH
Pismo Preserve – Moderate
This 880 acres of protected land has over 10 miles of multi-use trails. The Discovery Trail is a moderate 5.4 mile loop, climbing the ridgeline with sweeping coastal views. The Vamanos Canyon Trail is an easy 0.75-to-1.3 mile route through shaded oak trees.
80 Mattie Road
SAN LUIS OBISPO
Serenity Swing – Moderate
Located behind Poly Canyon, this 3.5 mile round trip hike takes you through grassy hills, past an architecture graveyard and up to a rope swing hanging from an oak tree where you can take in the panoramic views.
Intersection of Poly Canyon Rd. and Village Drive
Cerro San Luis “Madonna Mountain” – Difficult
The 4 mile round-trip trail offers stunning views of Laguna Lake and Bishop’s Peak. From the summit, take in sweeping views of the city, the Santa Lucia Mountains, and the chain of morros stretching to Morro Bay.
1183 Fernandez Road
SANTA MARGARITA
Grey Pine – Difficult
This out-and-back trail is 3.5 miles long, winding through woodland with views of Santa Margarita lake.
4695 Santa Margarita Lake Road
LOS OSOS
Montaña de Oro Bluff – Easy
Perfect for hikers of all levels, Bluff Trail in Montaña de Oro State Park is a 3.4 mile roundtrip hike featuring coastal bluffs, tide pools, beaches, and the scenic coastline.
Pecho Valley Road (Just past Spooner Ranch House)
MORRO BAY
Cerro Alto – Difficult
One of the highest points in SLO County, this 4 mile hike is located just off HWY 41 between Morro Bay and Atascadero. The challenging terrain pays off with expansive views over Los Padres National Forest
13741 Cerro Alto Road
CAMBRIA
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve – Easy
The Bluff Trail features an ADA compliant boardwalk that runs 1 mile along the coastal bluff. Taking Marine Terrace Trail will turn the hike into a loop and add another 0.7 miles to your trip. Both trails are flat with plenty of benches to enjoy the view.
4600 Windsor Blvd.
ATASCADERO
Three Bridges Oak Preserve – Moderate
Three Bridges Oak Preserve in Atascadero features a 3 mile trail through shaded oak woodlands, grassy meadows, and creekside areas. The summit offers scenic views of the city below.
9930 Carmelita Avenue
