3 Branches of the Limekiln

The Limekiln Trails offer up a moderate hike with defined trails, creek crossings, and limited elevation. From the parking area, head east under the canopy of redwoods until you get to the bridge, where there’s a kiosk marking the trail.

The three branches are ~0.5 miles each, making it easy to take in all 3. You may want to start with the Hare Creek branch first, followed by the Falls branch and finally the Limekilns branch, but the choice is really yours.

Shortly into the hike, you’ll see the first fork in the trail for Hare Creek (right) and Falls / Limekilns (left). Take the quick <0.5-mile hike to the end of Hare Creek, where you’ll come across an ancient redwoods and a small waterfall. At the waterfall, there will be a sign denoting the end of the trail. From here, head back to the fork and begin your trek to the falls.

En route to the falls, you’ll cross Limekiln Creek on a wooden bridge before meeting up with the fork to separate the limekilns (left) and the falls (right). On the branch to the falls, be prepared for a few stream crossings – your shoes will get wet! Also, there’s a small scramble to get to the waterfall, which you’ll see flowing down a large limestone wall. The 100’ waterfall marks the end of the trail. Head back toward the fork to see the Limekilns.

It’s a short hike to the Limekilns once you make it back to the fork. You may ask why should I see these? No problem, here’s a quick history lesson. In the late 1800s, these limekilns were used to smelt limestone and create lime powder, which was used in cement. This cement was shipped from the harbor at Limekiln SP up to Monterey and to SF to construct buildings. There it is!

Need something to tide you over on the drive back, head to La Tortuga Torteria in Seaside.