Pacific Grove, California
Pacific Grove, California is a must-see destination. With its scenic views and top attractions, it's no wonder why it's one of the most visited places in the area. From hiking and biking trails to beachside strolls, there's something for everyone. Must-visit attractions include Lovers Point Park, Point Pinos Lighthouse, and Asilomar State Beach. For some outdoor adventures, explore the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, Elkhorn Slough Reserve, and the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an adventure, Pacific Grove offers some of the best trails and activities in the area.
Top Spots in and near Pacific Grove
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Saratoga, California
Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail
4.430.22 mi / 3409 ft gainWant to experience one of the bay area's most memorable backpacking trips? We've got the details to get you out on the trail. To start the trek, drop your car at the Castle Rock State Park Parking Lot, which is located ~2.5 miles south of the junctions of Highways 35 and 9 off of Highway 35. Not...Read more -
Saratoga, California
Castle Rock Trail Camp via Saratoga Gap Trail
4.75.09 mi / 1158 ft gainCastle Rock Trail Camp has a different policy than other backcountry camps in the area (i.e. campsites along Skyline to the Sea). This campground is open all year and requires reservations for 15 of the 20 campsites. If you can, grab a spot a Frog Flat Camp. To get to the camp, park your car at t...Read more -
Paicines, California
Camp in Pinnacles National Park
4.0/ 1819 ft gainPinnacles Campground is accessible from the east side of the park, and you generally lose cell service about 20 minutes before the park entrance. The campground offers tent camping, group camping, and a handful of RV sites. The tent and group sites have individual picnic tables and fire rings, an...Read more -
Pescadero, United StatesRelax at Costanoa Lodge
3.0Looking for a quick escape from the city, but sleeping on the ground isn’t really your thing? Look no further than Costanoa Lodge in Pescadero, an upscale "glamping" experience just an hour south of San Francisco with tons of hiking options. This is a really fun option for anyone who enjoys being...Read more -
Morgan Hill, California
Mississippi Lake via Coe Headquarters
5.025.52 mi / 4974 ft gainIf you're tired of trying and failing to get reservations for backcountry camping around the bay area, then Henry Coe State Park is the perfect place to visit. No reservations need to be made prior to the trip. All you need to do is get to the HQ on the morning of your trip, get your permits and ...Read more -
Morgan Hill, California
Backpack to Coit Lake
5.026 miThis trail can be started from Coe Headquarters or Hunting Hollow Trailhead. The trail from Coe HQ is 2 miles longer, almost all elevation but provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. These directions will be starting from Coe HQ.Follow the loop around the parking area to the backpa...Read more -
Pescadero, California
Año Nuevo and Goat Trail Loop
4.03.76 mi / 761 ft gainThis steep and winding trail takes you to the top of a ridge where you can see the Pacific coastline and the redwoods piercing through the forest canopy. To do this trail connect the Ano Nuevo Trail, Olmo Fire Road, Goat Trail and the Six Bridges Trail. If you don't have all day to do the Canyon ...Read more -
Pescadero, California
Canyon Rim Route
5.08.94 mi / 2070 ft gainLocated deep within the Santa Cruz Mountains, Butano State Park boasts a large redwood canyon with many miles of hiking trails as well as campsites. This state park is one of the quietest and least visited parks on the peninsula making a perfect place to escape the hustle of the Bay Area Butano...Read more -
Saratoga, California
Seven Springs Trail Loop
2.75 mi / 541 ft gainThe Seven Springs loop is only one great option of several in the preserve. Starting from the Prospect Rd parking lot the loop is 2.8 miles of rolling hills in and out of the shade. Most of the trail is at least 2 person width so easy to walk with a friend or furry companion. There have been larg...Read more -
Pescadero, CaliforniaCamp at Butano State Park
Butano State Park definitely flies under the radar. But for those who love quick escapes, small crowds, fun hikes, and beautiful redwoods, it's a favorite. The park features miles of hiking trails, 21 drive-in campsites and 18 walk-in campsites. Restrooms with running water are provided. Drinking...Read more -
Pescadero, California
Little Butano Creek Trail
2.2 mi / 341 ft gainThis short hike follows Little Butano Creek through a lush redwood forest. The trail crosses the creek multiple times as you walk over redwood pine needles and through pockets of ferns. Dogs can join on this trail, but must be on leash. To get back to your car, continue the loop along Butano Cre...Read more -
La Honda, California
Portola Redwoods State Park Loop
4.88.21 mi / 1924.54 ft gainTake in the best of Portola Redwoods State Park: towering redwoods, a waterfall, wildflowers, and a mix of narrow singletrack and wide old logging roads. This loop comes in around 8 miles, with a shorter 5-mile option if you’re looking for something more mellow. Redwood hikes are always a trea...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Goat Camp via Twitchwell Flat Use Trail
5.09.2 mi / 3852 ft gainTo find this trailhead, head down Highway 1 towards Limekiln State Park Campground. Between Lucia and Limekiln, there should be a shoulder off the side of the road to park overnight. Cross the street to the trailhead of Twitchwell Flat Use Trail. Bear in mind that there is abundant poison oak alo...Read more -
Pescadero, California
Exploring Big Sur to Pigeon Point
We started off in Big Sur and took as many pull-off viewpoints as possible between Big Sur and the final destination, Pigeon Point Lighthouse. The weather was foggy in some spots but would open up to reveal the vast Pacific Ocean and sun in others. The weather was mild for us but we're familiar w...Read more -
Pescadero, California
Pigeon Point Lighthouse
5.0Pidgeon Point Lighthouse is conveniently located just 50 miles south of San Francisco. Constructed in 1872 and standing at 115 feet, it is among the tallest lighthouse in America. Part of the state park system, it is surprisingly secluded. Numerous parking space were available in the lot with ha...Read more -
Big Sur, California
3 Branches of the Limekiln
4.01.98 mi / 696 ft gainThe 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 ...Read more
