Looking for a most glorious day hiking experience? Well, this is definitely the place! With dozens of ocean front trails, carrying names such as Cypress Grove Trail, Whalers Knoll Trail, Moss Cove Trail, Sea Lion Point Trail and Granite Point Trail, Point Lobos State Reserve offers awesome views of tide pools, crashing surf over jagged rock formations, peaceful coves, unparalleled seashore wildlife and beautiful wildflowers. This is definitely a place for the family. Trails range from short (less than .5 mile) to moderately long (1.4 miles), but none is strenuous. The trails intertwine - automobiles are also allowed within the reserve.
The State Park is located less than four miles south of Carmel, California on the west side of Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway). It rests upon the site of a former whaling station and an abalone cannery. Everything from Sea Otters, Harbor Seals and California Sea Lions to the elusive Bobcat and Brandt's Cormorant may be seen, and Gray Whales come within 500 yards of shore on occasion - between December and May.
Foot traffic is free - automobiles must pay a small entrance fee. To maintain low impact usage, a maximum of 450 persons are allowed in the park at any one time. No Pets! Park opens at 9:00 A.M. and closes in the Winter at 5:00 P.M. and Summer at 7:00 P.M.
Point Lobos State Reserve
Route 1, Box 62
Carmel, CA 93923
Tel. (831) 624-4909
EMail: ptlobos@mbay.net
GO TO: http://www.pt-lobos.parks.state.ca.us
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