5 must-do San Luis Obispo hiking trails
San Luis Obispo, and the Central Coast in general, is known for its great weather and miles of beautiful hiking trails. Here are five must-do San Luis Obispo area trails for hikers of all skill levels.
1. Pismo Preserve
Pismo Preserve is a Central Coast hidden gem. Boasting glorious views of Pismo Beach and Oceano, the main trail is not too steep and has a gradual incline. Sunset is especially gorgeous and it makes for a great picnic location.
The main trail is easy to find and features a gradual, mellow incline with switchbacks. Once you get high enough, the trail has beautiful views of Pismo Beach and Morro Rock. I would especially recommend going in the springtime, when the hills are green and wildflowers are plentiful.
Keep in mind that parking is limited and it does get crowded, but it’s definitely worth waiting a few minutes for parking.
Skill level: Beginner
Average distance: 5.4 mile loop
2. High School Hill
If you’re looking for a quicker, but more difficult trail, then High School Hill is for you. I would recommend wearing hiking boots or good trail shoes, since there’s lots of loose gravel on the trail.
While High School Hill is less popular trail compared to Bishop Peak or Cerro, the views from the top are just as magnificent. Hikers are able to see all of downtown San Luis Obispo and multiple peaks. While High School Hill is only 3.4 miles out-and-back, keep in mind that it is definitely much of a steeper incline.
Skill level: Moderate
Average distance: 3.4 miles out and back
3. Bluff Trail – Montana de Oro
The four mile long Bluff Trail is definitely easier than most of the other San Luis Obispo hikes, but Montaña de Oro is a hidden gem and the coastal views are spectacular.
The trail itself is flat, so it’s a good choice for beginner hikers. I would recommend hiking here for sunset, but keep in mind it does get windy.
The trail goes right along the coast, allowing for incredible views of the cliffs and ocean. In the springtime, the fields are full of gorgeous California Golden Poppies and the drive into Montana de Oro is gorgeous as well.
Skill level: Beginner
Average distance: 4.1 mile loop
4. West Cuesta Ridge
The West Cuesta Ridge Road to Cuesta Ridge Botanical Area trail is a beautiful hike (and is also good for mountain biking) that goes along Cuesta Ridge. The trail is wide and does not have a steep incline, but it’s a good choice for hikers of all levels, since the entire hike is 17 miles long (many hikers typically just do a few miles of it).
This is definitely a less popular trail that does not get too crowded and the views of San Luis Obispo and the coast are just as spectacular as some of the more popular hikes, especially when the hills are green.
Skill level: Moderate
Average distance: 17.4 miles out and back
5. Islay Hill
Islay Hill is a short trail with a gradual incline, located near Tank Farm Road. While the trail itself is only 1.5 miles out and back, the incline makes for a good workout and the views from the top are gorgeous, especially in the spring when the hills are green.
This is definitely a great option for those looking for a short hike with great views from the top and is also a good choice for trail running. Despite decent elevation gain, hikers are rewarded with 360 degree views of San Luis Obispo and Edna Valley.
Skill level: Beginner
Average distance: 1.5 miles out and back
