It’s that time of year again when people are eager to be outdoors amongst nature and enjoy the new season. To help you with your exertion, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best hiking and biking trails near Carmel Valley, CA.
Granted, in California, the weather ranges from nice and warm to nice and warmer. Still, the spring season is the perfect time to tie up your hiking boots or strap on your helmets and hit the trails for an exhilarating hiking or biking experience. So, let’s move on to our list.
Lupine Loop Trail
Level: Easy
Length: 1.4-mile loop
Elevation: 72’
To start you off easy we have the Lupine Loop trail. This beautiful trail is open year-round and features a flat and simple 1.4-mile loop that takes you around the base of Garland Ranch. It takes approximately 34 minutes to complete and only has a 72-foot rise in elevation. The trail is mostly in direct sunlight with some low shrubs along the pathway. Dog-walkers, horseback riders, and runners alike are welcomed along the trail. You’ll also have the option to extend your hike by embarking on one of the many trailheads that appear along the loop.
Garland Ranch Waterfall Loop Trail
Level: Moderate
Length: 2-mile loop
Elevation: 239’
A locals’ and visitors’ favorite is the Garland Ranch waterfall loop trail. The trail is moderately challenging as it takes you nearly 2 miles around Garland Ranch Regional Park with a 239-foot elevation gain. The average hiker takes about 50 minutes to complete the loop but will thoroughly enjoy the partially shaded trail surrounded by forest with views of the mountains. The trail is open year-round and is dog-friendly, and also offers several locations to let your dogs off their leash. Do keep in mind that the waterfall along the trail is typically dried up during the warmer months of the summer as there’s little to no rain in the area during that time.
Redwood Canyon Trail
Level: Moderate
Length: 3.4-mile loop
Elevation: 797’
This next popular trek is the Redwood Canyon trail. This moderate trail does require some endurance as it is a 3.4-mile hike featuring a 797-foot elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. This beautiful loop trail begins in a natural oak grove and takes you through an abundance of blooming wildflowers in the spring months, a stunning patch of Redwood trees, and views of the Pacific Ocean as you reach the top. Along the way, you’re also given the opportunity to hike down into the canyon to see more big trees.
Pedego Electric Bike Tours
Level: Easy
Length: 10 miles
If you’re looking for a biking experience that will give you all the views but half the work, look no further than Pedego Electric Bike tours. The hills and distance of this tour are made “miles” easier by Pedego’s unparalleled eBikes. We recommend the scenic Carmel-by-the-Sea guided tour. They offer this tour at either 10 am or 3 pm. The ride allows 2 – 12 bikers, is 10 miles round trip and takes about 2 hours to complete. You will be simply enamored by views of storybook cottages amongst the trees and modern mansions along the coast. Your guide will also enlighten you on Vista’s rich history of famous buildings and residents as you ride.
Chews Ridge Road Mountain Biking
Level: Easy
Length: 1.6 miles
Elevation: 269’
Enjoy this easy yet thrilling out-and-back biking route through the Los Padres National Forest. The trail is 1.6 miles in length, has a 269-foot elevation gain, and offers breathtaking views. The trail is made easy for bikers, hikers, and horseback riders and it is unlikely you’ll encounter many other people during your exploration.
There will truly be no better feeling than enjoying one of these 5 best hiking and biking trails near Carmel Valley, CA. “Coming home” to our rejuvenating Lodge will be the relaxing part of your day. Our tranquil destination offers you and your family (and your puppers) full amenities and over 40-years of hospitality experience. Don’t miss out, book now!
