Take a trip to Carmel by the Sea and explore the natural beauty of the area with some of the best trails for running, walking, or hiking. We have also included options for pet-friendly Carmel by the Sea hikes, that way your faithful friend can join in on the fun too! Spend less time planning and more time enjoying everything our charming town has to offer.
Strap on your best pair of hiking boots and remember to pack some snacks for outdoor adventures! There are trails available for every skill level, whether you’re just starting out or a hiking expert, with lush scenery and stunning views of the ocean. All locations are dog-friendly except where designated otherwise with more info and regulations available on their respective websites.
Photo courtesy of CarmelCalifornia.com
Scenic Bluff Path – Perfect for a relaxing walk along Carmel Beach with plenty of benches and areas to watch the sunset.
Mission Trail & Nature Preserve – Over 3 miles of trails making their way through pine forests, coastal woodlands, and even wetlands with plenty of places for a great photo.
Photo courtesy of CarmelCalifornia.com
Carmel River State Beach – Fantastic for bird watching or sightseeing, Carmel River is home to a variety of waterfowl and songbirds in the nearby sanctuary.
Garland Ranch Regional Park – There’s a hike for everybody at Garland Ranch and you could easily spend an entire day seeing everything this beautiful area has to offer.
Photo courtesy of CarmelCalifornia.com
Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail – A paved trail making its way along the coastline that gives convenient access to those wishing to visit Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, and other nearby attractions without the hassle of traffic and parking.
Asilomar State Beach – An absolutely gorgeous coastal trail that winds its way past sand dunes and tide pools in a protected marine reserve.
Photo courtesy of CarmelCalifornia.com
Jacks Peak County Park – One of only 3 natural stands of Monterey Pines left in the US, this essential ecological site is also a fantastic place to hike and experience this one-of-a-kind forest.
Palo Corona Regional Park (No Dogs Allowed) – The largest land conservation project in Monterey County, Pale Corona is 10,000 acres of undeveloped open space filled with all manner of local wildlife, untouched greenery, and some excellent hiking trails.
Photo courtesy of CarmelCalifornia.com
Point Lobos State Reserve (No Dogs Allowed) – Often referred to as the “crown jewel of the state park system”, Point Lobos has a rich geological history with everything from bird watching and whale spotting to hidden shoreline coves along the hiking trails.
Garrapata State Park (No Dogs Allowed) – A hidden jewel of the area and local favorite, the park has breathtaking vistas and views of the ocean with redwood groves dotting the coastline.
Have an unforgettable getaway at Carmel Country Inn and make us your home base for all sorts of outdoor activities! Start your day out right with a hearty breakfast at our buffet and fuel up for some fun in the sun! After a long day of exploring Carmel by the Sea hikes, you can come back to a cozy room and relax with all the amenities you need for a great stay. Comfortable king and queen beds, whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, private decks, and more help create the perfect atmosphere for a soothing retreat from modern life. We are also a dog-friendly Carmel hotel, so feel free to bring Fido along for the ride so they can enjoy the area’s picturesque scenery right alongside you! We hope this list helps you plan out an amazing trip and we hope to see you soon!
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