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Our Favorite Scenic Runs, Hikes and Walks

Carmel Loop

This walk/run takes you through the downtown and residential areas of Carmel by the Sea, along the Scenic Rd that borders the ocean including the famous Carmel Beach, around Carmel Point with views of Carmel River Beach, Monastery Beach and Point Lobos, past Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch Restaurant and the Carmel Mission Basilica and back up to the Horizon Inn via the Carmel Mission Trail. This moderate walk/run will take approximately 1-2 hours. Walking / athletic shoes recommended. Pet-Friendly Leash required.

POINT LOBOS STATE RESERVE

This moderate walk/run requires a short 10 minute drive to the park’s entrance off of Hwy 1 South. You can park along Hwy 1 in designated areas and enter the park on foot. This moderate walk/run takes you along the coast via trails within the park. Points of interest include: the famed Whaler’s Cove, historic Cabin, and the lagoon; coastal cypress groves; and China Beach returning through the coastal forest. This approximately 5-6 mile walk/run will take approximately 2-3 hours. Walking/ athletic shoes recommended. Not Pet-Friendly.

GARLAND REGIONAL PARK

Maple Leaf Trail to Sky Park Trail

This ADVANCED/CHALLENGING HIKE requires a 20 minute drive out Carmel Valley Rd. Park along Carmel Valley Rd in the designated area and enter the trail on foot. This beautiful valley hike starts along the Carmel Valley river bed and begins a steady ascent through the shade of native foliage including coastal oak trees. Hikers can expect to see incredible views of the surrounding landscape with the trail letting out on the top of the ridge overlooking the Santa Lucia Mountains, Fire Tower and Rancho San Carlos preserve. This 4-5 mile hike will take a minimum of 3 hours to complete. Supportive Trail Runners or Hiking Shoes are recommended and hiking poles are suggested for this ADVANCED/CHALLENGING HIKE. Pet Friendly - Leash required

GARRAPATA STATE PARK

Sobranes Canyon-Rocky Ridge Loop (Limited Access)

This ADVANCED/CHALLENGING HIKE requires a 20 minute drive on Hwy 1 South to the entrance to the trail. Park along Hwy 1 in the designated area on the left (in front of the grove of Cypress trees) and enter the trail on foot. This stunning hike will consist of 3 parts: the first part of the trail takes you through a coastal redwood grove along Garrapata creek, the second part takes you up a steep incline face in the Big Sur Mountains with stunning views of the surrounding ridge lines and impressive display of native plants and wild flowers, lastly descend from this ridge down the trail which provides impressive views up and down the Big Sur Coastline. This hike will take a minimum of 3 hours to complete. Supportive Trail Runners or Hiking Shoes are required and hiking poles are recommended for this ADVANCED/CHALLENGING HIKE. Not Pet-Friendly

LOCALS GUIDE TO SCENIC RUNS, HIKES & WALKS

Ask about our exclusive fitness brochure
Provided by Visit Carmel

"Carmel-by-the-Sea invites you to unplug and recharge during your visit with this locals guide to scenic paths and trails. Options include everything from quick jogs or walk right from your charming Carmel hotel room to the recreational trail along the majestic Monterey Bay that's great for long distance training. Plus, you'll find numerous routes for all abilities that overlook stunning coastline and even take you high into the mountains for panoramic views of the surrounding area."