Bristle Cone Pines are some of the oldest trees living. Their lifespan is almost 5,000 years. They only live at high altitudes in extreme environments.
Valencia Peak, California
Located in Montana de Oro SP near Los Osos its elevation is recorded at 1347 feet, and is about 2 miles from the trailhead. Depending on personal and weather factors time to top is subjective, but can usually be achieved in about an hour or so. Better fitness, quicker time, right?
Sandspit Beach, California
Accessible by Pecho Valley Road in Los Osos into Montana de Oro. The hike to beach passes by WWII ordinance training areas for D-Day that are clearly cordoned off. A great sea level hike that goes up to the mouth of Morro Bay across from the Morro Rock.
Redwood National Forest, California
The Lady Bird Johnson Grove in the Redwood National Forest of California was the first Presidential protected Redwood Forest in the U.S. It was designated in the late 1960's by President Richard M. Nixon.
Ragged Point, California
Ragged Point is at the Southern end of Big Sur, California, which is where the Central Coast truly begins. It is about a 15 minute drive from San Simeon Bay and Hearst's Castle.
Point Buschon, California
Point Buschon is on PG&E's land, north of the Diablo Nuclear Power Station. Access is through Montana de Oro SP's last parking lot to the south. A short hike to the steward's sign in hut. Great coastal views with no more than an 80 foot elevation gain throughout.
Piedras Blancas Light Station, California
North of Hearst's Castle in San Simeon and south of Ragged Point this historical lighthouse facility played a historical role in U.S. maritime history. Tours are by reservation with easy coastal independent hiking afterward.
North Rim, Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Supai Tunnel is on the North Kaibab Trail of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It is almost halfway to the Colorado River near the bottom of the canyon.
Monument Valley, Arizona
Buttes and geological monuments in the Navajo Nation. Formations tower between 400 and 1,000 feet. A favorite location of film director John Ford.
Hike Finder
Harmony Headlands, California
Located between Cayucos and Cambria on the west side of California's Highway 1. Great coastal views with a moderate terrain for easy hiking.
Estero Bluffs, California
The 'Bluffs' are north of the Cayucos Pier and they extend almost to the Harmony Headlands. They weave the coastline dodging in and out of the Pacific Ocean. On a clear day it is magical. Storms are beautiful, but leave the trails in slip and slide shape.
