Five Monterey/Santa Cruz County Trails for Family Hikes

What better way to celebrate family togetherness than spending time in nature? Celebrate National Hike Day with one of our recommendations.  A hike is also the perfect way to walk off those  Thanksgiving calories!

1. For the view: Point Lobos State Reserve

With miles of stunning coastline views, families can hike short trails or longer journeys. The North Shore Trail is a fantastic starting point for breathtaking views of the Carmel coastline and Pebble Beach. A word of caution: although it is 1.7 miles long, the hike begins with a staircase. If hiking upward is not your thing, then check out the gentle Sea Lion Point Trail or the Cypress Grove Trail, which are both just under a mile long. Entrance to Point Lobos is $10 per vehicle.

2. For an easy option: Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail

The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is an 18-mile paved trail that allows you to walk to many of Monterey’s attractions, like Cannery Row, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The trail is open to pedestrians and bikes and is a great way to see the coastline.

3. For hiking and beach time: Andrew Molera State Park

Andrew Molera State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails close to Monterey. The Beach Trail and Headland Trail are nice options for families as you can combine a hike with some time at the beach. This park is much quieter than some of the other state parks in the Big Sur area because the coastline isn’t as dramatic.

4. For the redwoods: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Whether you are a family with toddlers or teens, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park has something for everyone. There are over 35 miles of hiking and biking trails among a variety of forested areas, including the famed redwoods. For those with younger ones, the Redwood Grove Loop is the perfect starting place. At just under a mile in length, it offers up-close views of the redwood giants.

5. For 34 miles of hiking trails: Wilder Ranch State Park

This state park offers some expansive views of the Pacific coastline and over 34 miles of hiking trails. Families will love Old Cove Landing, an easy 2.6-mile seaside trail. The well-maintained trail is great for younger ones as it is relatively flat and there are plenty of opportunities to see pelicans, geese, and quite possibly sea lion and whales. The beach is accessible by walking across the bluffs. Start at the Visitors Center and follow the trail along the cliffs. The trail ends up looping back around to where you started. There is a fee of $10 per vehicle to gain entrance.