Nestled along California’s rugged central coast, Monterey is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Known for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich history, this coastal region offers hiking opportunities that cater to adventurers of all skill levels. Monterey’s trails provide a unique way to experience the area’s natural beauty, from towering redwood forests and serene coastal bluffs to scenic meadows and hidden waterfalls. Whether you’re seeking a stroll or a challenging trek, the breathtaking vistas and tranquil surroundings will leave you in awe.
This article explores ten of the most captivating places to hike in Monterey, CA, each offering its unique charm and adventure. Discover the iconic Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, where cypress groves meet dramatic coastal cliffs, or venture into the heart of Big Sur to witness the raw beauty of McWay Falls. Traverse the rugged terrain of Pinnacles National Park, known for its striking rock formations and diverse wildlife, or explore the lesser-known trails of Garland Ranch Regional Park, where oak woodlands and riverbanks create a serene escape.
If you’re looking for more cool places in California, check out this guide.
Join us as we uncover these ten breathtaking hiking destinations, each promising an unforgettable journey through Monterey’s unparalleled natural landscapes. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your essentials, and get ready to embark on an adventure that will connect you with the mesmerizing beauty of Monterey, California.
1. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Overview
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is often referred to as the “crown jewel” of California’s state park system, and for good reason. Located just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this reserve offers a pristine and diverse landscape that captivates visitors year-round. The reserve is home to an array of trails that wind through ancient cypress groves, dramatic coastal bluffs, and rich tide pools teeming with marine life. The park’s diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including sea otters, harbor seals, and a plethora of seabirds.
Highlights
- Cypress Grove Trail: This short loop trail offers an immersive experience through the rare and ancient Monterey cypress trees, which are found naturally only in this area and along the central coast. As you meander through the grove, you’ll be treated to breathtaking ocean views and the chance to observe the unique flora and fauna that inhabit this special ecosystem.
- Sea Lion Point Trail: A moderate hike that takes you along the rugged coastline, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. This trail provides numerous vantage points where you can watch sea lions basking on the rocks and playing in the surf below. The trail also passes through diverse habitats, including coastal scrub and rocky shorelines, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.
2. Garrapata State Park
Overview
Garrapata State Park, located along the iconic Highway 1, is a hidden gem known for its rugged coastline, verdant redwood groves, and diverse plant life. Covering approximately 2,939 acres, this park offers a variety of hiking experiences that cater to adventurers of all levels. The park’s name, “Garrapata,” means “tick” in Spanish, but don’t let that deter you; the breathtaking scenery is worth every step. With its dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush canyons, Garrapata provides an immersive experience of California’s natural beauty.
Highlights
- Soberanes Point and Whale Peak Trail: This scenic hike is a must-do for any visitor to Garrapata State Park. The trail offers a 2-mile loop with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline. During the spring, wildflower displays add a burst of color to the landscape, making the hike even more enchanting. Keep an eye out for migrating gray whales, which can often be seen from the trail as they travel along the coast.
- Rocky Ridge Trail: For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Rocky Ridge Trail offers a 4.6-mile loop that takes you through redwood forests and up to breathtaking viewpoints. The trail provides a mix of steep climbs and gentle slopes, offering hikers a chance to experience the park’s diverse terrain. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of flora and fauna, making it a rewarding hike for nature enthusiasts.
3. Andrew Molera State Park
Overview
Andrew Molera State Park offers a more rustic and less-developed hiking experience compared to other parks in the region. Located along the Big Sur coast, this park covers over 4,700 acres of diverse landscapes, including meadows, beaches, and the scenic Big Sur River. The park is named after Andrew Molera, a pioneer in the region’s agricultural history. It’s an ideal destination for hikers who prefer a quieter, more natural setting, away from the crowds. The park’s trails provide opportunities to explore the stunning coastal scenery and diverse ecosystems that define Big Sur.
Highlights
- Creamery Meadow Trail: This easy hike is perfect for families and those looking for a leisurely walk. The trail takes you through picturesque grassy meadows, where you can enjoy the vibrant wildflowers in the spring and the gentle rustling of the grasses in the breeze. The trail leads to the beach, where you can relax and take in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a peaceful day by the water.
- Ridge Trail: For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Ridge Trail offers a strenuous hike with rewarding views. The trail ascends through chaparral-covered hills and oak woodlands, eventually reaching a ridge that provides panoramic vistas of the Big Sur coastline. On clear days, you can see for miles along the rugged coast and across the sparkling ocean. The diverse plant and animal life along the trail adds to the experience, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts.
4. Garland Ranch Regional Park
Overview
Garland Ranch Regional Park, nestled in the scenic Carmel Valley, offers an extensive network of trails that cater to hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers alike. Spanning over 4,400 acres, the park’s diverse terrain includes riverbanks, canyons, oak woodlands, and chaparral-covered hills. The park is known for its rich biodiversity, with opportunities to observe a variety of plant and animal species. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking both leisurely walks and more strenuous hikes, all within a picturesque setting.
Highlights
- Mesa Trail: This moderate hike is a favorite among visitors for its panoramic views of the Carmel Valley. The trail winds through oak woodlands and open meadows, offering a chance to see wildflowers in the spring and a variety of bird species year-round. The summit provides a perfect spot to rest and take in the sweeping vistas of the valley below.
- Waterfall Trail: For those looking for a shorter but rewarding hike, the Waterfall Trail is a must-visit. This trail takes you through a shaded canyon and leads to a seasonal waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff. The trail is relatively short but can be steep in places, making it a bit of a challenge. The sight and sound of the waterfall, especially after a rainstorm, make the effort worthwhile. Additionally, the trail offers several spots to stop and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding forest.
5. Pinnacles National Park
Overview
Pinnacles National Park, located east of Monterey, is a hidden gem that offers hikers a unique and unforgettable experience. Known for its striking volcanic rock formations, cave systems, and diverse wildlife, the park spans over 26,000 acres and provides a variety of trails that cater to all levels of hikers. The park is divided into two main sections, East and West, each offering distinct features and trail experiences. Pinnacles is also a haven for bird watchers, as it is one of the few places where you can spot the endangered California condor soaring above the rugged landscape.
Highlights
- Bear Gulch Cave Trail: This fascinating hike takes you through a series of talus caves formed by large boulders wedged into narrow canyons. The trail is relatively short but offers a unique spelunking experience, as you’ll need a flashlight to navigate through the dark passages. The trail ends at the Bear Gulch Reservoir, a serene spot surrounded by towering rock formations and lush vegetation. It’s a perfect place to rest and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
- High Peaks Trail: For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the High Peaks Trail offers a strenuous but rewarding hike. This trail takes you through steep and narrow passages, with handrails and steps carved into the rock to assist hikers. The summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the park’s iconic pinnacles and the distant rolling hills. Along the way, keep an eye out for the park’s diverse wildlife, including condors, falcons, and bobcats.
6. Fort Ord National Monument
Overview
Fort Ord National Monument, a former military base turned protected area, spans over 14,000 acres and offers a vast network of trails that traverse rolling hills, grasslands, and maritime chaparral. Located just north of Monterey, this monument is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The monument’s diverse habitats support a rich variety of plant and animal species, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers and bird watchers. The area’s history adds an intriguing layer to your exploration, with remnants of its military past still visible along the trails.
Highlights
- Badger Hills Trail: This moderate hike takes you through rolling hills and provides sweeping views of the Salinas Valley. The trail is well-marked and offers a mix of open grasslands and shaded oak woodlands. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna, including wildflowers in the spring and various bird species throughout the year. The open vistas and tranquil surroundings make it a perfect hike for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
- Trail 68: For a longer and more immersive experience, Trail 68 offers an extensive journey through the monument’s diverse landscapes. This trail meanders through maritime chaparral, oak woodlands, and grasslands, offering a comprehensive view of the area’s natural beauty. Bird watchers will be delighted by the variety of species that can be spotted along the way, including hawks, quails, and even the occasional golden eagle. The trail is also popular with mountain bikers and equestrians, adding to its dynamic and multifaceted appeal.
7. Big Sur
Overview
Big Sur, located along the rugged central coast of California, is a world-renowned destination known for its dramatic scenery and challenging hikes. Stretching for about 90 miles between Carmel and San Simeon, Big Sur offers a variety of trails that showcase its stunning coastline, towering redwood forests, and breathtaking mountain vistas. The region’s natural beauty has inspired countless artists, writers, and outdoor enthusiasts, making it a must-visit destination for any hiker seeking an unforgettable adventure.
Highlights
- McWay Falls Trail: This short but iconic hike offers some of the most picturesque views in Big Sur. The trail is an easy, 0.6-mile round trip that leads to an overlook where you can see McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly onto the sandy beach below. The sight of the waterfall against the backdrop of the turquoise ocean is truly mesmerizing, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
- Ewoldsen Trail: For those seeking a more strenuous hike, the Ewoldsen Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. This 5-mile loop trail takes you through dense redwood groves and along steep ridges, offering panoramic views of the Big Sur coastline. The trail gains significant elevation, providing hikers with a workout and stunning vistas from the top. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse plant and animal life, including wildflowers, ferns, and possibly even deer or bobcats. The combination of lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and ocean views makes this hike a quintessential Big Sur experience.
8. Toro County Park
Overview
Toro County Park, located near the city of Salinas, spans over 4,756 acres and offers a variety of trails that wind through oak woodlands and grasslands. This park is a popular destination for hikers, picnickers, and nature enthusiasts, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park’s diverse terrain and elevation changes make it an ideal spot for both strolls and more challenging hikes. With its rolling hills, open meadows, and scenic vistas, Toro County Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Highlights
- Ollason Peak Trail: This challenging hike is a favorite among experienced hikers seeking a rewarding adventure. The trail takes you on a 7.6-mile loop with a significant elevation gain, leading to the summit of Ollason Peak. From the top, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Salinas Valley and the surrounding mountains. The trail passes through oak woodlands, chaparral, and grasslands, offering a diverse range of scenery and habitats. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, hawks, and wild turkeys.
- Redtail Canyon Trail: For a more moderate hike, the Redtail Canyon Trail offers a 3.2-mile loop that takes you through scenic canyons and woodlands. The trail features gentle inclines and shaded sections, making it a pleasant hike for all ages. As you meander through the canyon, you’ll encounter a variety of plant and animal species, including colorful wildflowers in the spring and vibrant autumn foliage. The peaceful surroundings and natural beauty of the trail make it a perfect escape for a relaxing day in nature.
9. Jacks Peak Park
Overview
Jacks Peak Park, located just a short drive from downtown Monterey, is a tranquil oasis known for its forested trails and stunning vistas of Monterey Bay. Spanning over 525 acres, the park offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling coast, with a network of trails that wind through lush forests of Monterey pine and oak trees. The park’s high elevation provides excellent viewpoints, making it a popular destination for hikers seeking both solitude and scenic beauty. Jacks Peak is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it an excellent spot for nature observation.
Highlights
- Skyline Nature Trail: This easy hike is perfect for those looking to enjoy panoramic views of Monterey Bay without too much effort. The 1.5-mile loop trail meanders through shaded forests and open meadows, offering a mix of scenery and habitats. Along the way, you’ll find several viewpoints that provide sweeping vistas of the bay, the city of Monterey, and the distant Santa Cruz Mountains. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities.
- Iris Trail: For a slightly longer and more immersive experience, the Iris Trail offers a 2.3-mile loop that takes you deeper into the forest. This trail is named after the beautiful wild iris flowers that bloom in the spring, adding a splash of color to the landscape. As you hike through the shaded forest, you’ll encounter a variety of plant and animal species, including deer, rabbits, and numerous bird species. The trail is peaceful and less crowded, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quiet escape from nature.
10. Santa Lucia Preserve
Overview
The Santa Lucia Preserve is a private nature reserve located in the scenic Santa Lucia Mountains, just a short drive from Monterey. Spanning over 20,000 acres, the preserve is dedicated to the conservation of its diverse ecosystems, which include oak woodlands, redwood groves, grasslands, and coastal scrub. Access to the preserve is limited to guided hikes and special events, ensuring that the natural beauty of the area remains pristine and undisturbed. The guided hikes are led by knowledgeable naturalists who provide insights into the ecology, history, and conservation efforts of the preserve.
Highlights
- Long Ridge Trail: This guided hike takes you on a journey through the diverse landscapes of the Santa Lucia Preserve. The trail covers a mix of terrain, including rolling hills, dense forests, and open meadows. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the native plant and animal species that call the preserve home. The hike culminates in a stunning viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s a perfect spot to take in the beauty of the preserve and reflect on the importance of conservation.
- Indian Springs Trail: Another guided hike, the Indian Springs Trail, explores the cultural and natural history of the preserve. The trail meanders through oak woodlands and follows the path of a seasonal creek. Along the way, you’ll learn about the area’s rich Native American history and the traditional uses of native plants. The trail also provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various bird species. The serene and unspoiled environment of the preserve makes this hike a truly immersive and educational experience.
1-Day Itinerary
Morning
- Start at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Arrive early to explore the Cypress Grove Trail and Sea Lion Point Trail. Enjoy the breathtaking ocean views and the unique Monterey cypress trees.
Midday
- Lunch in Carmel-by-the-Sea: Head to the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea for lunch. There are plenty of quaint cafes and restaurants to choose from.
Afternoon
- Hike at Garrapata State Park: Spend the afternoon hiking the Soberanes Point and Whale Peak Trail. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and, if it’s spring, the beautiful wildflowers.
Evening
- Dinner in Monterey: End your day with dinner at a restaurant in Monterey, where you can savor fresh seafood and local cuisine.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Coastal Trails
Morning
- Start your day at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
- Hike the Cypress Grove Trail and Sea Lion Point Trail.
Afternoon
- Lunch in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
- Head to Garrapata State Park for an afternoon hike on the Rocky Ridge Trail.
Evening
- Dinner in Monterey.
Day 2: Big Sur Adventure
Morning
- Drive to Big Sur and start with the McWay Falls Trail.
- Enjoy the iconic views of McWay Falls.
Afternoon
- Lunch at a scenic spot in Big Sur.
- Hike the Ewoldsen Trail for a more challenging adventure.
Evening
- Return to Monterey for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Day 3: Inland Exploration
Morning
- Visit Garland Ranch Regional Park and hike the Mesa Trail.
Afternoon
- Lunch in Carmel Valley.
- Hike the Waterfall Trail and enjoy the seasonal waterfall.
Evening
- Enjoy a farewell dinner in Monterey.
1-Week Itinerary
Day 1: Point Lobos and Carmel
Morning
- Explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Afternoon
- Lunch in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
- Continue exploring Carmel’s shops and galleries.
Evening
- Dinner in Monterey.
Day 2: Garrapata and Big Sur
Morning
- Hike the Soberanes Point and Whale Peak Trail at Garrapata State Park.
Afternoon
- Lunch in Big Sur.
- Hike the McWay Falls Trail.
Evening
- Dinner in Big Sur.
Day 3: Big Sur’s Hidden Gems
Morning
- Hike the Ewoldsen Trail.
Afternoon
- Picnic lunch in Big Sur.
- Visit Andrew Molera State Park and hike the Creamery Meadow Trail.
Evening
- Return to Monterey for dinner.
Day 4: Pinnacles National Park
Morning
- Drive to Pinnacles National Park.
- Hike the Bear Gulch Cave Trail.
Afternoon
- Picnic lunch in the park.
- Continue hiking the High Peaks Trail.
Evening
- Return to Monterey for dinner.
Day 5: Fort Ord National Monument
Morning
- Hike the Badger Hills Trail.
Afternoon
- Lunch in Salinas.
- Explore Trail 68 at Fort Ord National Monument.
Evening
- Dinner in Monterey.
Day 6: Toro County Park and Jacks Peak Park
Morning
- Hike the Ollason Peak Trail at Toro County Park.
Afternoon
- Lunch in Salinas.
- Hike the Skyline Nature Trail at Jacks Peak Park.
Evening
- Dinner in Monterey.
Day 7: Relax and Reflect
Morning
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Monterey.
- Optional morning hike at a favorite spot or visit local attractions.
Afternoon
- Lunch and souvenir shopping in Monterey.
Evening
- Farewell dinner in Monterey, reflecting on your incredible adventures.
Conclusion
Monterey, California, is a hiker’s dream, offering an array of trails that showcase the region’s unparalleled natural beauty. From the coastal allure of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve to the rugged charm of Big Sur, each hiking destination provides a unique adventure and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you’re traversing the dramatic rock formations of Pinnacles National Park or exploring the serene woodlands of Garland Ranch Regional Park, you’ll find that Monterey’s trails cater to all levels of experience and offer something special for everyone.
The diverse landscapes of Monterey, ranging from redwood groves and coastal bluffs to meadows and rivers, create a rich tapestry of outdoor experiences. Each trail offers breathtaking vistas and opportunities to observe the region’s abundant wildlife and unique flora. These hikes are more than just physical activities; they are journeys that immerse you in the natural splendor and tranquility of Monterey.
So, lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure to discover these ten breathtaking hiking spots in Monterey, CA. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, these trails will leave you inspired and rejuvenated, reminding you of the profound beauty and serenity that nature offers. Happy hiking!
