Paso Robles, California
One of the top outdoor adventures in Paso Robles, California is hiking the Salinas River Walk. This trail offers a scenic journey along the Salinas River, with notable landmarks such as the towering oak trees and the unique rock formations. The trail is moderately difficult, making it a must-visit for those seeking a bit of a challenge. For those interested in bird watching, the trail is home to a variety of bird species. In addition, the trail is also a popular spot for horseback riding. Another best outdoor activity in Paso Robles is a visit to the Barney Schwartz Park, a scenic park with a beautiful lake, perfect for picnicking and fishing. The best Trails and Outdoor Activities in Paso Robles truly offer something for everyone.
Top Spots in and near Paso Robles
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San Luis Obispo County, California
Spooner's Cove
5.0Spooner’s cove is one of those small hidden beaches where you can watch stunning sunsets in a peaceful environment. Located in Montana De Oro State Park, the small gem is surrounded by countless hikes and camping spot. It is also one of the only areas of the park that is dog friendly. If you are ...Read more -
San Luis Obispo County, California
Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail
4.02 mi / 302 ft gainThe Bluff Trail is a simple walk that takes you along the coast in Montaña de Oro. The trailhead is located just past Spooner's Cove and has parking on both sides of the road. The path is paved, making it easily accessible for anyone who wants to enjoy these incredible views. If you're feeling a...Read more -
San Simeon, California
Explore Hearst Castle
4.5Hearst CastleYou always hear about it but rarely do you make the necessary full day stop to visit the castle with Big Sur just around the corner.Hearst Castle, located high above the ocean, was the creation of two extraordinary individuals, William Randolph Hearst, and architect Julia Morgan.They...Read more -
San Luis Obispo, California
Bike or Run the Bob Jones Trail
5 miThe Bob Jones Trail provides a variety of activities -- running, walking, biking, skateboarding/rollerblading, and some exploring by the creek. You can choose where you would like to start, across the street from the Central Coast Aquarium off Avila Beach Dr. or from the parking lot off Ontario R...Read more -
San Luis Obispo, California
Ontario Ridge to Shell Beach Bluff Trail Loop
4.02.79 mi / 679 ft gainOntario Ridge to Shell Beach Bluff Trail Loop is a loop trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Avila Beach, California.Read more -
San Luis Obispo, California
Catch the Sunset at the Avila Sea Caves
4.0When I attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, I would come out to this place to watch the sunset. It was my favorite spot to sit on a rock and take in the beautiful scenery as the sun went down. You don't really have to hike to get a nice view, you can park the car and walk out to the rock cliffs and...Read more -
San Luis Obispo, California
Point San Luis Lighthouse via Pecho Coast Trail
3.4 mi / 879 ft gainThis guided roundtrip hike to Point San Luis Lighthouse has one of the best views of the central coast coastline. You will get a chance to see the Avila Beach, Avila Pier, Call Poly Pier, and Harford Pier from a high point. The trail crosses through a land owned by PG&E; therefore, the hike...Read more -
San Simeon, California
Elephant Seal Vista Point
5.0Elephant Seal Vista Point is a favorite place to see the elephant seals. If you’re in the area and have the opportunity, it's a must see. During the Spring, the adult elephant seals and the baby seals are out. Nearby are easy, clearly marked, walking paths, along the cliffs edge. Dogs are not all...Read more -
Pismo Beach, California
Surf Shell Beach
5.0Shell Beach is north of downtown Pismo Beach. This is a fun wave that works best during the fall and winter months. It's a beach break with both lefts and rights. The wave is rippable and is less popular than waves at the pier or at Morro Bay. However, the wave is much less consistent than the ot...Read more -
San Simeon, California
Elephant Seal Vista Point Trail
5.05.27 mi / 184 ft gainElephant Seal Vista Point Trail is an out-and-back trail that provides a good opportunity to view wildlife located near San Simeon, California.Read more -
Oceano, California
Camp at Pismo State Beach
4.7Hiking along nature trails, swimming, and surf fishing are all possible here, including wheelchair accessible fishing at Ocean Lagoon. Facilities consist of fire rings, restrooms, and showers. Restaurants are not far from the campground, as well. Make your reservation here.Read more -
Oceano, California
Catch a sunset at the Oceano Dunes
Driving on the beach is fun, and there are few places in California where you can legally do it. Just south of Pismo Beach you'll find Oceano Dunes. Pay the $4.00 entrance fee and drive your car right onto the beach. Keep an eye on tides and watch out for deep sand and sneaker waves! You won't be...Read more -
San Simeon, California
Ragged Point Trail
4.50.81 mi / 249 ft gainRagged Point is a quick stop off Hwy1 in Big Sur. It offers amazing vistas of where the mountains meet the ocean. There are scenic spots overlooking both the North and the South. The southern vista overlooks San Carpoforo Creek. Big Sur is truly one of the most beautiful places in California, and...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Salmon Creek Falls
5.00.29 mi / 102 ft gainThe trailhead to Salmon Creek Falls is located along a pullout just 45 miles south of Pfieffer Burns State Park on the Highway 1. The falls are only about .25 miles from the trailhead, perfect for a quick visit if you are already driving through Big Sur. Though the Salmon Creek Trail continues on...Read more -
Big Sur, California
Salmon Creek Trail to Spruce & Estrella Camps
4.56.07 mi / 1919 ft gainFeel free to hike Salmon Creek Trail at your own pace – you can choose to turn back at any point, or at the Spruce (2 miles in) or Estrella (3.25 miles in) sites. The trail leads to open vistas of the coast, giving stunning views of the cliffs and ocean. Around 2 miles in, follow the fork to the...Read more -
Arroyo Grande, California
Explore the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes
The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes and nearby Lake Oso Flaco are home to many endangered and threatened species of plants and animals. A beautiful, short boardwalk takes you from the parking lot, over Lake Oso Flaco, and through the dunes before arriving at the ocean. Enjoy the local wildlife and abundan...Read more
