My discovery of the Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail in Los Osos, CA, was a happy accident that fueled my love for this beautiful state. A friend and I were exploring a nearby area and decided to follow a road to see where it led. Where we ended up was quite possibly one of the most beautiful coastal hikes in the state.  

This scenic, rugged oceanfront park has hills, cliffs, beaches, campgrounds, and lots of wonderful trails to explore. The park is easily accessible from the little town of Los Osos. From Highway 101, take Los Osos Valley Road through town until it turns into Pecho Valley Road, then continue almost four miles to Spooner Cove. It was actually the first view of the Cove that made us stop here the first time. There are a couple of options for parking. I usually go past the cove turn-off and park in the spaces along the road near the trailhead. You can also park in the Spooner Cove lot. Look for a short trail past the restrooms that leads up to the roadside parking area. The trailhead is at the end of the Bluff Trail Parking.

AllTrails says this easy 4-mile hike generally takes less than an hour and a half to complete, but it takes me quite a bit longer. Every vista point is worth savoring (pro tip: make sure your phone has plenty of storage available for photos!), and there are a couple of good reasons to leave the trail for a bit.

The views start immediately. In fact, the first overlook is about a quarter-mile from the trailhead, halfway out to the point, and gives you a spectacular view of the rock formations around Spooner Cove. This first part of the trail goes out to the edge of the bluffs and has a branch that loops back to the beginning of the trail, less than a mile in total, if you’re just up for a short but picturesque adventure. There is also a public restroom along the way.

The jagged, layered rocks and rock islands that have been carved along this part of the coast are truly breathtaking. And the trail follows the edge closely so you constantly see and hear the waves crashing on them - I find it mesmerizing. You also receive awesome views of the mountains on the opposite side of the trail, and during spring and summer, loads of orange poppies and wildflowers in between.

Several tiny paths lead from the main trail to the very edge, where I always take way too many photos. One path leads to a small bridge and a staircase down to the beach where you can - and should - explore the extensive tide pools full of crabs, sea stars, anemones, and other marine critters. There are multiple areas with more tide pools to explore if you’re willing to climb around a little! If you can, try to time your visit during lower tides.

I highly recommend bringing snacks and planning at least half a day to really enjoy your Bluff Trail adventure. Whether it’s a bright summer day (bring sunscreen), a chilly fall morning, or a cool, foggy afternoon that requires a cozy sweatshirt, I am never disappointed by this place. I am positive you won’t be either. The trail is family-friendly but you’ll have to leave your fur-baby at home for this one. Have you ever explored Montaña de Oro State Park or hiked along the incredible Bluff Trail? Share your experience with us in the comments!