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Monterey Bay Coastal Trail
4.9 ★★★★★ 16 Google reviews · Running trail in Pacific Grove, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Monterey Bay Coastal Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Monterey Bay Coastal Trail
“This little stretch of path and coastline is just gorgeous.”
This little stretch of path and coastline is just gorgeous. There's a lot to take in; we walked the path a dozen times, but usually just found ourselves sitting on one of the many benches drinking a cup of coffee and soaking in the ocean views/air.
This coastal recreation trail is actually 18 miles long that runs from Pacifuc Grive to Castroville that was the original route of the Southern Pacifuc Railway. This paved trail is wide enough for bikes, joggers, strollers and pedestrians walking to shops or walking for fitness.
Wonderful path that blesses its local citizens with a chance to not just trolley through by foot or bike, but also to take in and enjoy such a majestic view! My only complaint is the sea wall from the road needs to be higher to reach from average car door to window height, so it doesn't let the smog flow (especially…
If I could give this place 10 stars I would. I would highly recommend going south as it has the better views, I mean everything is gorgeous but Tip: if you go south on the trail when the sun is near noon you’ll really appreciate all the beauty in full light. The pictures don’t really do this place justice.
Trail conditions & character
“Wonderful path that blesses its local citizens with a chance to not just trolley through by foot or bike, but also to take in and enjoy such a majestic view!”
“This paved trail is wide enough for bikes, joggers, strollers and pedestrians walking to shops or walking for fitness.”
“This paved trail is wide enough for bikes, joggers, strollers and pedestrians walking to shops or walking for fitness.”
Plan your run at Monterey Bay Coastal Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
Running trails near Pacific Grove
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Berwick Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,331 reviews
1-acre park boasting ocean vistas, picnic spots & a grassy lawn, plus hiking & biking trails.
George Washington Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 142 reviews
Recreational green space offering a playground, ball field, walking trails, and picnic areas.