I felt it was only appropriate to review one of my favorite state parks for my 1000th review…read more This park has an extensive history dating back to the Chumash Native American inhabitation. These people lived here long before European explorers arrived. The park was purchased in 1965 by the State of California and made a state park. Prior to it becoming a state park, the land was used for agricultural use as well as farming and dairy use. It consists of 8000 acres of cliffs, seven miles of shoreline, coastal plains, canyons and hills. There is such a peaceful and calm vibe that you feel as you enter the park. As you enter through this colossal Eucalyptus forrest, you are mesmerized with their size. Clouds flow through the forrest and open up to the mighty Pacific Ocean. I always feel like I am entering a different world when I come here. There are so many fun trails to hike at ocean level, mountain level etc. Abundant wildlife is everywhere. You can also just take leisurely walks and enjoy the beauty of the ocean. Plenty of places to picnic, and a small beach to hang out with family and friends. There is also a small campground but what a great place to camp! Dogs are allowed but need to be on a leash. My first time out here was back in 2021. I mainly walked the Bluff Trail and took in the wind shaped jagged cliffs, caves, and rocky shore. I then completed a long beach walk on the strand that led from the park to the shores of Morro Rock. I saw so many dead jellyfish which was odd. I also saw huge turkey vultures. The next summer I took a recommendation from a worker at a local coffee shop. He told me all about Coon Creek trail. I started on this trail but it was pretty flat and I wanted something a little more challenging. I saw a sign for Oats Peak Summit and I went for it. A steep climb but so worth it at the top. Views were incredible on this ultra sunny day. Last summer I took my hubby with me and we decided to hike Valencia Peak. Hiking from sea level up to 1,347 feet proved to be a challenge but such a fabulous reward at the top. I could have spent the day up there just taking in the 360 degree views of the ocean, Morro Bay, Los Osos, and the SLO valley in the background. We absolutely loved this hike! If you find yourself lucky enough to be visiting the central coast, be sure to check out this phenomenal state park. It's truly one of California's finest offerings. Most of all remember to pack in and pack out - LEAVE NO TRACE.

Gold Fashioned A…read moremere fifteen miles west of SLO sits Montaña de Oro, which is one of California's largest state parks at a whopping 8k-acres. And the cherry on top of all that acreage, is a nice seven-mile stretch of California coastline. The Good: *Shockingly--free admission! *Superlative views of rocky shores, cool ocean breezes, and plenty of vitamin sea for everyone. *Bluff Trail is the best way to take advantage of those aforementioned seven miles of shoreline; easy, flat and nonstop ocean views. *Spooner's Cove is a great little beach to have a picnic at (pit toilets available). *Restrooms throughout the park *Mountain biking trails *Campgrounds & environmental camps available The Meh: *Dogs only allowed at Spooner's Cove and campgrounds, but we saw plenty along the trails. I guess it's not heavily enforced, but you take your chances. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ *A few AC parking lots but it's gonna be mostly edge of the shoulder parking. Please pay attention to any signage to avoid tickets/tow. *Little to no shade along the trails, which normally wouldn't be an issue as it's along the coast, but even the coast can get warm. So bring ya waters. The Ugly: *Very popular place and can fill up fast, so don't dilly-dally and get here early. Conclusion: Amazing park with fantastic views, but with a bit of a people problem.

As of Oct 17, 2020 this place is still temporarily closed due to the El Dorado fire…read more The road leading to the trailhead may close seasonally. Please DO NOT park in undesignated spots as you are likely to get towed. Adventure Pass or National Parks Pass is required for entry. Due to many search and rescue situations in the past, hikers may not venture past the waterfall at the end of this route. There is a large parking lot at the trailhead with BOTH free and PAID parking. The gravel lot to the left is free. The lined spots require a day pass which you can purchase at the general store a few miles down the road. Making it to the very top requires a little scrambling and rock climbing, but its doable. So many places to relax and enjoy nature. Overnight camping is no longer allowed, but if you want to hang out for the day and set up a little picnic there are spots and bathrooms. Upper Big Falls is currently closed until 5/21/21 due to public safety. The closure is from the observation deck up to the waterfalls itself. Do not hike or climb past the observation deck. Forest Adventure Pass Daily Pass--Costs: $5 per dayForest Adventure Pass Annual Pass--Costs: $30 Annually Forest headquarters 602 So. Tippecanoe Ave San Bernardino Ca 92408 Tel no (909) 382 2682 (800)735 2922

We decided to come here for a hike, we drove like 50 minutes from AG. The rode goes up a mountain…read morethen descents towards a series of creek passings (about 18). Luckily we took a pick up truck because the creek water level in some of them were about 3ft deep. No 4x4 is needed but definitely helps, car height is more important. When we actually got to the end of the road we went on a hike crossing a couple more creeks. When just about made it to the falls it was tough to get down if your a inexperienced hiker or kid. You have to climb down with a rope, pretty sketchy.. We just decide to hang out at one of the creeks we crossed by foot, very tranquil.

It's harder than you think it's going to be... I live in the CO Rocky Mountains and thought this…read morehike looked little. It loops around the top and has some good vertical. It's a true intermediate hike to the summit. Very pretty.

Beautiful hike. The trail is steep but that affords you the opportunity to get over 1,000 in a…read moreshort amount of time, for amazing views of SLO. This is a challenging but very doable hike. Highly recommend.

I live here... it's aight. Kinda far from stores tho. Wild life is amazing! Drive slow at night and…read morewatch out for the owls.

Carrizo Plain National Monument, mainly known for its seasonal wildflower blooms, is also home to a…read moremassive, u-shaped, sandstone rock formation that showcases some of the best Native American rock paintings (pictographs) in the world. The tour takes you into the inside of the rock formation where you can peer into the alcoves and view the Native American rock art up-close. Unfortunately, much of the art was vandalized in the early 1900s so you can only see small sections of what was once a wide panel of art dating back 1,000s of years. Time spent viewing the art was fairly brief. I was told this is done to protect the nesting birds. I would have liked to of heard more about the art itself and maybe even theories as to their meaning. I have read books that describe how the site was chosen because of the birds-eye-view has a close resemblance to a particular female anatomy and how under-the-influence Shamans would use it to gain entry into the supernatural realm. Unless you have an interest in this kinda stuff then you may want to not make the trip since it takes considerable effort to get here and you probably will find the art itself underwhelming. I personally really enjoyed the trip and I enjoyed the serenity of being in the middle of nowhere experiencing the beauty of the land. You have to call in advance to purchase tickets. You'll also have to endure a 30-mile drive through mostly dirt roads so make sure you come with a vehicle that is able to make it. Park your car at the Goodwin Education Center and when it comes time to go you'll caravan to the parking lot located near the site and then embark on a pleasant 1.4 mile round trip hike to the site. This tour runs on Saturdays from mid-March through May. You can also chose to see it without a guide if you purchase a self-guided pass. They ask that you not post any pics of the art itself out of respect to the sacred site.

Gorgeous scenery. Get here before it gets hot as the lake dries up in summer and turns to salt. I…read morethought there were other lakes around but they were solar panel fields. Make sure you have plenty of gas, water and snacks. Nothing around for 20 miles. Mountain pass to come from Chevron's oil fields in Kettleman was stunning but very winding with hair pin turns amd a big altitude climb. Enjoy the scenery and take your time. Other side to go to or from ocean area is gorgeous as you go by lots of huge ranches that are amazing. Take your time, enjoy the peaceful scenery. Easy to go off edge of winding road. Soda Lake visitors center isn't much but personnel provide great info about lake and surrounding areas. No cost to enter but donations appreciated.

Soda Lake is not a lake full of soda!! Sorry!! Got to admit that would be something very special…read moreif it was. This place can be found at Carrizo Plain National Monument. We always stop by here when we are in the area on the hunt for some beautiful wildflower sightings. The overlook is a great vantage point to see Soda Lake and the surrounding landscape. We've only stopped by during springtime, and each time the views have been spectacular. Other times of the year, it is mostly brown and the lake dry. After a nice rainy season, though, there is likely to be very lovely blooms of wildflowers. The walk up the Soda Lake Overlook is not bad. Just about anyone can manage no matter what their age. It is also a good place to use the bathroom if you don't mind port a potties. There is parking for about a dozen cars too. At the boardwalk, there is also some parking. The walk to the boardwalk and edge of the lake is not too far. Nice easy stroll for all ages as well. Can get very hot cause there is no shade so be prepared to bring water and wear that sunblock. For the loveliest views, the best time to go is during Spring when the wildflowers appear. If you're lucky, then you might witness super blooms!!

I hiked Sycamore Crest Trail in late July. The weather was pleasant--high 70s--but unfortunately,…read moreonce we reached the top, ocean fog completely blocked the views. Total bummer since the panoramic photos I'd seen online were what drew me in. The trail itself was tougher than expected. AllTrails listed it as kid-friendly, but I definitely wouldn't take my 4-year-old on this hike. The way up is a steady incline that really works your calves (be ready for some breaks), and the way down was surprisingly slippery due to loose gravel--even with solid hiking shoes. It's not dangerous, just tricky in spots, and you'll want to watch your footing. Overall, it's a nice enough trail, but I wouldn't call it "easy." It's one of those hikes I might try again on a clearer day just to catch that view--but in my opinion, there are much better hikes in California. For example, Point Lobos was easier and had way better views. Bottom line: manage your expectations, don't bring young kids, unless they are older kids and check the fog forecast before you go!

This a fun, short hike up to a great and vantage view point of Avila Bay and Port San Luis. I was…read morechecking the Sycamore Mineral Springs resort out and saw this trail and decided to go for it. Total mileage out and back is only 1.5 miles but it's a great workout. It was a pretty warm day and I worked up a sweat pretty quickly. Definitely steep but I appreciated the climb. I made it up to the top pretty fast so I was all happy with myself. The elevation gain is quick so be prepared. Lots of pretty views going up but at the top by far is the best. I loved all the gorgeous oak trees that provided some much needed shade along the trail. Once you are at the top, the view is pretty epic and you will want to linger. I could see the Pismo Dunes to my left and the beautiful bay and Port San Luis to my right. Should you desire to continue your hike then head left hike along the Ontario Ridge. Just can't beat the Central Coast of California!

Ended up taking the long route to Pirate's Cove (parked near homes and took the trail) which we…read morelater found out is the Shell Beach Bluff Trail. We enjoyed this scenic trail, which had multi-million dollar homes to our right, and the beautiful ocean to our left; and a somewhat steep incline up to the dirt parking lot and Cave Landing trailhead. Good thing the weather was perfect and there was a lovely breeze; otherwise I would've stopped walking and demanded to go back to the car. Once we got to the trail, it was a fairly easy short walk to get to the cave. After taking in the stunning views from the cave, we trekked to the cove. Be cautious going down, as it's a steep dirt path and a couple flights of stairs. Also note that clothing is optional, and you may run into people in their birthday suits on this secluded beach.

While visiting SLO, I was looking for an ocean hike to complete and found this hike on All Trails…read moreso I went for it. I took the long way traversing through a million dollar neighborhood of gorgeous homes lining the street. Once I was in the dirt I could see the cove from above. The beach is beautiful and not crowded. Of course, clothing is optional but I didn't come for the beach. I came to see the cove. You have to hike down to the cove as it sits on the water, but no biggie. Hiking back up and out for some may be challenging for some so just go at your own pace. When I arrived there was a guy playing a guitar so that was nice, not too many peeps around which allowed me to take a couple of pics. The cove itself is picturesque but the graffiti sucks!! Why must people have to paint on rocks in nature?? I just don't get it!! Go paint on abandoned buildings etc. I stayed for a few minutes then I walked out on the rocks and took in the views of the mighty Pacific Ocean. So gorgeous! I could have sat there all day. You can also access this cove and beach by driving directly to it and then following the path down to it, but I preferred the mini hike instead. Remember to Leave No Trace always.

The hike is beautiful, a bit challenging for me but always the best feeling when I pass the Ridge…read moreFrom the 101 freeway and am able to say I did that !

Awesome views and beautiful trail. Not for the first timer but novice hike is no problemread more