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Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Carmel-by-the-Sea | Map and Routes
Bare rock · Beach
4.9 (208 ratings)
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a breathtaking setting for walking and hiking enthusiasts. With 436.3 acres of diverse landscapes, including rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and lush forests, ...
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a breathtaking setting for walking and hiking enthusiasts. With 436.3 acres of diverse landscapes, including rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and lush forests, this park is a paradise for outdoor activity seekers. The park features a variety of well-maintained trails that cater to different fitness levels, making it a great destination for walkers and hikers of all abilities. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Point Lobos has something to suit everyone's needs. Visitors can explore the numerous trails that wind through the park, taking in the stunning coastal views and abundant wildlife along the way. One of the highlights of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the extensive network of scenic trails that offer a range of experiences for walkers and hikers. The park boasts a total of X routes, with the longest route spanning 3.8 miles, providing an opportunity for a more immersive outdoor adventure. As visitors traverse the trails, they can expect to encounter breathtaking vistas of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and its diverse ecosystems. The park's well-marked trails and informative signage ensure that walkers and hikers can easily navigate the terrain while enjoying the natural beauty and serenity of Point Lobos. Whether you're seeking a short, invigorating walk or a longer, more challenging hike, this park has a trail to match your activity level and time frame. For walkers and hikers looking to explore the natural beauty of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, the park offers an ideal destination for an active and rewarding outdoor experience. With its diverse landscapes, well-maintained trails, and stunning coastal views, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of this coastal gem. Whether you're interested in a leisurely walk to soak in the serene surroundings or a more invigorating hike to explore the rugged coastline, Point Lobos has something for everyone. For more information about the park's trails and routes, visitors can download the Pacer Pedometer app to access detailed maps and route information, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable outdoor adventure.
View MoreView MorePoint Lobos, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, USA36.5171° N , -121.9423° W
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Walking and Hiking in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, is a paradise for walkers and hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With its breathtaking views and diverse terrain, this park offers an array of activities suitable for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a casual stroller ...
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, is a paradise for walkers and hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With its breathtaking views and diverse terrain, this park offers an array of activities suitable for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a casual stroller or a seasoned hiker, Point Lobos has something for everyone. The park's essential amenities include restrooms, wheelchair-friendly facilities, multiple parking lots, picnic sites, and drinking water stations, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their outdoor adventures comfortably. For those with accessibility needs, the park offers wheelchair-friendly access to some of its most captivating sights. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Whalers Cabin and Whaling Station Museum, as well as the stunning viewpoints at Sea Lion Point and Point Lobos. Whether you're interested in a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the ideal destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience.
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Essential Amenities in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Accessibility in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Things to See in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Viewpoint
Sea Lion Point
Viewpoint
Point Lobos
Museum
Whalers Cabin and Whaling Station Museum
Best Walking Routes in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
#1 - Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
12
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 5m
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a 0.3 mile (1,000-step) route located near Carmel, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#2 - Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary
7
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Carmel, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
#3 - Carmelo Meadow Trail
4
Length: 0.2 milesEst. Time: 4m
Carmelo Meadow Trail is a 0.2 mile (500-step) route located near Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.
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Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Leaderboard
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2*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
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FAQs About Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Where is the best place to walk in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?
The best place to walk in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the Point Lobos Trail, which is 3.8 miles long and offers beautiful coastal views. This trail has a rating of 4.0 and is highly recommended by the Pacer community.
How many routes are in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve has a total of 13 routes available for walking and hiking. These routes vary in length and difficulty, providing options for all skill levels.
Which is the longest route in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?
The longest route in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, which is 3.5 miles long and offers a diverse natural environment to explore. This route is highly rated and recommended by the Pacer community.
Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?
Yes, there are restrooms, wheelchair-friendly paths, multiple parking lots, picnic sites, and drinking water available throughout the park to accommodate walkers and hikers.
How accessible is Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?
The park is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring accessibility for all visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and trails.
What kind of sports can I do in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?
While traditional sports facilities are not available, visitors can engage in activities such as walking, hiking, and enjoying the various viewpoints and natural attractions in the park.
What is the best season to walk in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?
The best season to walk in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is typically in the spring and fall when the weather is milder, and the park is less crowded.
What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?
Visitors to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve should prepare for cool and often foggy conditions, especially in the summer. The winter can be rainy, so it's advisable to bring appropriate rain gear during that time.
What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Point Lobos State Natural Reserve?
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and numerous bird species. Visitors should also be cautious of encountering rattlesnakes and mountain lions, though these encounters are rare.
Last updated: Dec 1, 2025