Where to Hike in Paso Robles

Itching to hit the trails? In a time when many of us are rediscovering our love of the outdoors, hiking is becoming a favorite hobby. Next time you're ready to explore, take your adventure to California and experience hiking in Paso Robles.

Located near vineyards, mountains, and coastal cliffs, Paso Robles is a popular tourist destination. What's not to love with wines to taste, restaurants to try, and trails to hike? Next time you're in Paso Robles, lace up your shoes and explore these eight hiking paths.

8 Hiking California Trails Near Paso Robles

1. Salinas River Walk

2 Miles – Paso Robles

The Salinas River Walk is a 2-mile trail running through Paso Robles. Several portions are paved and wheelchair accessible, while other small sections are packed soil. The River Walk can be accessed by foot or bike at 13^th Street and Creston, near downtown, or from Larry Moore Park, where there are wheelchair accessible parking spots.

The Salinas River Walk is a great trail for hiking in Paso Robles. But it's planned to be much longer. When completed, the River Walk will stretch 30 miles from Santa Margarita to San Miguel!

2. Black Hill Trail – Morro Bay State Park

2.5 Miles – Morro Bay

California coastal vibes await at Morro Bay State Park. The Black Hill Trail is a great hiking spot with incredible views waiting at the top. The entire trail is 2.5 miles long, but you can opt to walk only the final half mile by driving to the top of Black Mountain Road.

Note that the upper parking lot is small and fills up quickly. Ample parking is available at the golf course clubhouse on Lower State Park Road if you're willing to do the longer hike.

3. Hearst San Simeon State Park Trail

3.3 Miles – Cambria

Nestled near the ocean in Cambria, Hearst San Simeon State Park features mountains, coastal wetlands, and wildflowers. A 3.3-mile trail runs through a beautiful portion of the park, which can be trekked in a loop, or as an out-and-back trail. If you're unfamiliar, out-and-back means that you hike to your destination, then retrace your steps back to the starting point on the same path.

You can access the Hearst San Simeon State Park trail from the Washburn Day Use Area. This small parking lot features restrooms for your convenience.

4. Bishop Peak Trail

3.5 Miles – San Luis Obispo

Some of the best hiking near Paso Robles can be found 30 miles south in San Luis Obispo. This college town is home to the Bishop Peak Trail, a great hike for those seeking a challenge. The out-and-back trek is 3.5 miles round trip and rated as moderate for difficulty. Reaching the summit is worth the effort, as there are stunning views of the area.

If the Summit Trail sounds a bit intense, try the Felsman Loop. Accessible from the same Patricia Drive trailhead, this 1.6-mile path is rated easy and offers a pleasant walk.

5. Three Bridges Oak Preserve Trails

3 Miles – Atascadero

The town of Atascadero has protected its most beautiful biomes in the Three Bridges Oak Preserve. This natural area features a 3-mile trail system for hiking, with some sections also open for cycling and equestrian use.

We recommend the Lookout Trail, but it's also worth hiking the Oak Woodland Loop. If you're up to it, head for the highest elevation on the shady Madrone Trail. Check out the trail map for full details.

6. Bluff Trail – Fiscalini Ranch Preserve

0.9 Miles – Cambria

Fiscalini Ranch Preserve sits along the famous cliffs of Cambria. Scores of trails crisscross the natural area, but the most popular is the Bluff Trail. At roughly a mile long, this easy trail features endless ocean views accompanied by crashing waves. It's also ADA accessible.

If you're seeking a paved path, try the Marine Terrace Trail. This 0.7-mile path is is also ADA accessible and is open to cyclists.

7. Estero Bluffs State Park Trail

7.2 Miles – Cayucos

Tucked along California State Route 1, Estero Bluffs State Park stretches for miles along the Pacific Ocean. A 7.2-mile trail runs through a portion of the park, passing by bluffs and tidal wetlands. You can also walk just a short section of the trail, as the whole route is an endeavor.

The trail can be accessed at the pullout and parking lot near San Geronimo Road in Cayucos.

8. Valencia Peak Trail – Montaña de Oro State Park

4.2 Miles – Los Osos

Overlooking the ocean, the Valencia Peak Trail is the quintessential California hiking experience. The trail is within Montaña de Oro State Park and is roughly a 4.2-mile loop. The distance can increase or decrease slightly depending on which trails you use.

You can access the Valencia Peak Trail from its dedicated trailhead, the Oats Peak Trailhead, or the Badger Trailhead.

Camping in Paso Robles

We hope you've loved these trails for hiking in the Paso Robles area. Next time you visit, bring your boots and take your stay at one of our nearby resorts. You'll find great amenities and comfortable accommodations at any of the following outdoor destinations:

• Sun Outdoors Paso Robles
• Vines RV Resort
• Sun Outdoors Central Coast Wine Country

Be sure to bring a hiking buddy for the trip too. Share this post and ask which trail they're most interested in conquering!

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