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Pismo Preserve
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,021 Google reviews · Running trail in Pismo Beach, California · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Loop distance
- 11 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Pismo Preserve'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.
900-acre nature preserve open to the public for docent-led hikes, runs, bike rides & horse rides.
What runners say about Pismo Preserve
“Trails were well maintained, signs clearly indicate which way the path continues at intersections, and the view was beautiful.”
“Trails were well maintained, signs clearly indicate which way the path continues at intersections, and the view was beautiful.”
“The trails were well groomed and clearly marked with many wildflowers and a couple of snakes.”
“It's dog friendly and many people were hiking/ walking with their furry companions”
We’re lucky to have this nature preserve on the Central Coast. The views on these trails are spectacular and are all very well maintained. With a variety of routes to choose from, for hiking or biking, this should be on the list of places to visit, on the coast.
What a fantastic hike. Beautiful weather beautiful views. We did a 6 mile hike with my friends. It was super fun. Not too hard only ~650ft of elevation change. Dog friendly but for some parts I'd recommend a leash.
Broke up hanging out on the beach with a 5.5 mile hike on the Discovery Trail (yellow markers). Great hike. About 800 feet of elevation over 2.5 miles. Go in the morning when it’s foggy as there isn’t much shade for most of it. Easy to follow trail.
Finally did this hike on a weekday, as it has been super packed on weekends since it opened up. If you are planning on driving, please note, there are limited spots and you might want to come in the late afternoon when it’s not super busy or park somewhere in Pismo or shell beach.
Trail conditions & character
“Trails were well maintained, signs clearly indicate which way the path continues at intersections, and the view was beautiful.”
“The views of the ocean and coastline are spectacular The parking lot was full when we got there but street parking was available nearby.”
“If you are seeking the highest point of elevation on the Discovery Trail you need to veer off slightly to Lover's Point.”
“It's dog friendly and many people were hiking/ walking with their furry companions”
“Broke up hanging out on the beach with a 5.5 mile hike on the Discovery Trail (yellow markers).”
“The Spring to Spring Trail is a loop, so you can start either from the right or the left.”
“Bathrooms were very clean, the water fountain was operational and clean, and the park map was accurate and clear.”
“Bathrooms were very clean, the water fountain was operational and clean, and the park map was accurate and clear.”
Plan your run at Pismo Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Loop distance11 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Trail mapOfficial trail map
- Websitelcslo.org
- Phone(805) 544-9096
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Pismo Beach
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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