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Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
4.9 ★★★★★ 10,862 Google reviews · Running trail in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Point Lobos State Natural Reserve'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.
Scenic coastal area featuring diverse sea animals & wildlife, hiking, diving & a whaling museum.
What runners say about Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
“Most paths are flat and well-maintained, making them accessible for all fitness levels.”
“This park is truly one of a kind: countless species of animals, plants, and trees, stunning landscapes, historical stories, and even whale spotting.”
“The ocean breeze, the sound of the waves, and the natural scenery made the whole walk feel peaceful and refreshing.”
Awesome park with lots of well maintained trails. Enjoy easy to moderate walks to some trails w slight elevation. Some beautiful views w most trails under the shade of trees. Several picnic areas and plenty of parking. Get there first, we did, it did not take long for the line of cars to grow.
I absolutely love visiting this place. It just has something for everybody. The trails are just beautiful through moss-laden trees and the dramatic landscape of the cliffs meeting the Pacific. It just brings so much joy to me as a birder.
Absolutely stunning natural beauty all around!! Walked most of the coastal trails and pretty easy to get around. Recommend getting to the park early (especially if you want to park inside in one of the lots) as the place fills up quite quickly.
Thoroughly enjoyed my hike at Point Lobos. I was pleasantly surprised that such stunning views didn’t have a strenuous hike attached to it. Most hiking trails are easy to moderate for the average person. And some are super short with great views (good for those just wanting to get in and out).
Trail conditions & character
“This park is truly one of a kind: countless species of animals, plants, and trees, stunning landscapes, historical stories, and even whale spotting.”
“If the main lot is full, you can park along Highway 1, but make sure your tires are completely behind the white line and park parallel to the road to avoid a hefty ticket.”
“• Stroller Friendly: For parents, the Lace Lichen Trail is a fantastic stroller-friendly option.”
“It is wide and relatively flat, allowing you to easily navigate the forest scenery with a toddler.”
“The ocean breeze, the sound of the waves, and the natural scenery made the whole walk feel peaceful and refreshing.”
“There is a $10 entry fee to be paid at the entrance kiosk - they take Credit Cards and there are (flushing yay) restrooms available.”
Plan your run at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — 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.
- Websiteparks.ca.gov
- Phone+1 831-624-4909
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 8 am–6:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 8 am–6:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 8 am–6:30 pm |
| Thursday | 8 am–6:30 pm |
| Friday | 8 am–6:30 pm |
| Saturday | 8 am–6:30 pm |
| Sunday | 8 am–6:30 pm |
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