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Best forest hiking trails in San Luis Obispo County
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Best forest hiking trails in San Luis Obispo County

Need a nature reset? These forest hikes will immerse you in a sea of greenery, where the air is crisp, the ground is soft, and every step feels like a magical woodland escape.

Here are some great trails to explore in San Luis Obispo County.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Lawrence Moore Park - Salinas River Walk

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 4.0 (3) · 6.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 18 min

2

Easy

Morro Coast Audubon Society Sweet Springs Nature Preserve Loop

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 5.0 (3) · 869 m · Est. 10 min

3

Medium

Upper Lopez Canyon Road, Little Falls and Big Falls Loop Trail

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 4.0 (7) · 20.1 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

4

Easy

Blinn Ranch Trail

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 8.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 8 min

5

Easy

Montana de Oro State Park Camp via Reservoir Flat Trail

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 4.0 (8) · 4.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 3 min

6

Medium

Reservoir Canyon Road and Tower Ridge Loop Trail

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 4.0 (5) · 8.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 28 min

7

Easy

Nipomo Regional Park Loop

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 5.0 (2) · 3.0 km · Est. 40 min

8

Difficult

Bishop Peak

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 4.0 (5) · 6.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 50 min

9

Medium

Big Falls from Upper Lopez Canyon Road

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 5.0 (4) · 7.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 3 min

10

Easy

Jim Green Trail Loop

San Luis Obispo County, California · star 4.0 (6) · 2.7 km · Est. 38 min

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Reviews for forest hiking trails in San Luis Obispo County

Miss Alva Kiehn avatar

Lawrence Moore Park - Salinas River Walk

PlateauMapmaster77 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Darius Howe Ret. avatar

Morro Coast Audubon Society Sweet Springs Nature Preserve Loop

SummitWayfinder37 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Dane Schroeder avatar

Upper Lopez Canyon Road, Little Falls and Big Falls Loop Trail

PlateauRidgechaser61 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Sen. Gordon Huels avatar

Blinn Ranch Trail

DriftwoodAdventureguide80 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Rod Moen avatar

Montana de Oro State Park Camp via Reservoir Flat Trail

PebbleGraniterover32 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in San Luis Obispo County

What is the climate like for hiking in California?

California's vast geography results in diverse climates. Coastal regions, with their mild, Mediterranean climate, offer year-round hiking opportunities, though winter rains may muddy trails. In contrast, the inland valleys and desert regions are best hiked from October to April, as summer temperatures can be prohibitive.
The Sierra Nevada, famous for its mountains and forests, is popular in summer and fall. However, winter brings heavy snowfall, making trails inaccessible. Meanwhile, the pleasant climate of Southern California allows for hiking throughout the year, with cooler, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
To summarize, California's diverse climate offers year-round hiking opportunities, varying by region. Visit www.parks.ca.gov for more detailed information about specific trails and their recommended seasons.

Do I need a permit to hike in California?

Permits for hiking in California, particularly in wilderness areas or for overnight trips, are often required. Managed by the National Park Service, Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management, permit processes vary. For more information, visit respective agency websites or www.recreation.gov for federal lands.

Is wild camping allowed in California?

Wild camping in California is generally permitted in national forests and Bureau of Land Management lands. However, restrictions apply, such as the requirement of a campfire permit. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Detailed regulations can be found on agency websites like www.fs.usda.gov

Are there mountain rescue services in California?

In case of a hiking emergency in California, dial 911. Also, the California Office of Emergency Services coordinates search and rescue. The Mountain Rescue Association (MRA) has several units in California, with information available at www.mra.org. Always plan ahead and hike safely.

Are there dangerous plants in California?

California's flora varies widely, from coastal scrub and redwood forests to desert plants and alpine flora in the Sierra Nevada. This diversity can affect hiking experiences and trail conditions. For detailed information on California's flora, visit the California Native Plant Society website: www.cnps.org

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in California?

California's diverse habitats host a wide range of wildlife, from harmless squirrels to larger mammals like black bears. Ticks and mosquitoes may pose minor nuisances to hikers. Be aware of potential encounters, particularly with venomous snakes in desert areas. For more, visit https://wildlife.ca.gov/

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