The best city hikes and walks in Monterey County
4.8
(593)
7,636
hikers
62
hikes
Urban hiking trails in Monterey County offer diverse landscapes, from rugged Pacific coastlines to serene sand dunes and open spaces. The region is characterized by its dramatic meeting of mountains and ocean, providing numerous coastal paths. Inland, trails can traverse oak woodlands and chaparral, even within urban-adjacent areas. This variety ensures a range of experiences for those exploring the urban and semi-urban environments on foot.
Best urban hiking trails in Monterey County
- The most popular urban hiking route is Monterey…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.41km
01:08
10m
30m
Hike the easy 2.7-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Trail for stunning ocean views, wildlife spotting, and access to iconic landmarks like Lovers Po
2
hikers
12.2km
03:07
50m
40m
Hike the moderate 7.6-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, enjoying ocean views and wildlife spotting along the California coast.
Sign up for free
34.7km
08:56
170m
170m
Hike the difficult 21.6-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, gaining 552 feet with ocean views, sand dunes, and wildlife spotting.
1.79km
00:29
20m
20m
Hike the easy 1.1-mile Rip Van Winkle Open Space trail through a Monterey Cypress forest, perfect for a quick stroll with your dog.
890m
00:14
0m
10m
Hike the easy 0.6-mile Marina Dunes Preserve Trail for scenic ocean views, wind-sculpted dunes, and a unique coastal ecosystem.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Monterey County
City hikes in the Trish Hills
City hikes in Fort Ord Dunes State Park
City hikes around Pacific Grove
City hikes around Monterey
City hikes in Fort Ord National Monument
City hikes in Palo Corona Regional Park
City hikes in Garrapata State Park
City hikes around Carmel-By-The-Sea
The tour of your life – music trails on the Pacific coast
California Coastal Trail — Following the coastline from Mexico to Oregon
Other adventures in Monterey County
Tips from the Community
A lovely wharf you should see
0
0
Nice flat run on footpath to aquarium.
0
0
Fishwife, adjacent to the Beachcomber Motel, is steps away from Asilomar Beach. The restaurant serves fresh seafood with a Caribbean twist in a relaxed, beachside setting. It is a great place to stop for lunch, and while you're here, don't miss a chance to try a slice of their legendary homemade key lime pie!
0
0
Kalisa Moore, known as the “Queen of Cannery Row,” was born in Latvia and came to America after World War II. She bridged the eras, opening her fine dining restaurant when most canneries had already closed. Over the years, “Kalisa’s” evolved into a bohemian coffeehouse where artists, writers and poets “hung out.” Her weekend cabaret was filled with musicians, dancers and the occasional celebrity from the Monterey Jazz Festival. As time went on and Cannery Row was reborn, Kalisa became a major factor in preserving memories of Steinbeck’s era and promoted tourism and commerce as president of the Cannery Row Foundation. For fifty years, she was a friend to the famous and a mother to the needy with a local following that knew and loved her. Kalisa's La Ida Cafe was a very special time and place, and Kalisa will always be remembered as the "Queen of Cannery Row."
3
0
Cannery Row, the waterfront district that boomed in the 1850s - For thousands of years it was home to the Ohlone, Esselen and Salinas tribes, and in the 19th century immigrants from Europe and Asia settled here to fish the waters, especially for sardines. Thanks to the canneries that resulted, Monterey became known as the "Sardine Capital of the World." John Steinbeck, born and raised in nearby Salinas, immortalized this era in his 1945 novel Cannery Row, and the name stuck.
3
0
Bruce Ariss Way is a narrow alley, the pedestrian-only continuation of Irving Avenue between Wave Street and Cannery Row. What was once an unofficial walkway between the residential area of the row, across the railroad tracks, and the waterfront canneries has been converted into a small park. In the early 1990s, the City of Monterey relocated three worker's shacks from 866 Wave Street to this site and opened them to the public. They are interpreted as being occupied by a Japanese, a Filipino, and a Spanish family, respectively, alluding to the cultural mix that characterized cosmopolitan Cannery Row and representing the living conditions of workers between the 1920s and 1950s. There were many shacks like this in the neighborhood in the early 20th century, but these are the only remaining remnants of this housing type on Cannery Row.
3
0
Nice, small (and free!) museum just before Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. Nice exhibition.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Monterey County?
Monterey County offers a diverse selection of over 50 urban hiking trails. These range from easy coastal strolls to more challenging paths, ensuring options for various skill levels and preferences.
Are there easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or families in Monterey County?
Yes, Monterey County is very beginner and family-friendly, with 45 easy urban hikes. Many coastal paths, like sections of the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail, offer flat, paved surfaces with beautiful views, perfect for all ages. The Marina Dunes Preserve Trail is another excellent easy option.
What are some popular urban trails that offer scenic views or unique natural features?
The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is a highlight, offering stunning ocean vistas and passing by iconic spots like Fishermans Wharf. For a different experience, the Rip Van Winkle Open Space provides a tranquil escape within an urban setting.
Can I bring my dog on urban hikes in Monterey County?
Many urban trails in Monterey County are dog-friendly, especially those along the coast and in regional parks. Always check specific trail regulations before you go, as some natural reserves or protected areas may have restrictions. Garland Ranch Regional Park in Carmel Valley is known for its dog-friendly options.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on urban trails?
Coastal urban trails, particularly along the Monterey Bay, offer excellent opportunities for spotting marine wildlife such as sea lions, sea otters, and various seabirds. Inland urban parks may feature local bird species and small mammals. Elkhorn Slough Reserve is a renowned spot for birdwatching and marine life.
Are there any urban hiking trails that form a loop?
Yes, several urban trails in Monterey County offer loop options, which are great for varied scenery without retracing your steps. While specific loop trails vary in length and difficulty, many sections of the coastal recreation trails can be combined with city streets to create circular routes. Elkhorn Slough Reserve also features a five-mile loop trail.
What are the best times of year to go urban hiking in Monterey County?
Urban hiking in Monterey County is enjoyable year-round due to its mild climate. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be popular, especially along the coast, while winter provides cooler, often clear days, perfect for brisk walks. Always be prepared for coastal fog, which can roll in at any time.
Where can I find parking for urban hiking trails in Monterey County?
Parking availability varies by location. Popular coastal trails, like the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, often have designated parking lots near trailheads or along the route, though these can fill up quickly during peak times. Many city parks also offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific trail information for parking details.
Are urban trails in Monterey County accessible by public transport?
Many urban trails, especially those within Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Carmel-by-the-Sea, are well-integrated with local public transport routes. The Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) system serves much of the county, making it possible to access various trailheads without a car. Planning your route in advance using public transport maps is recommended.
What attractions or landmarks can I explore near the urban hiking trails?
Urban trails in Monterey County often lead to or pass by significant attractions. Along the coast, you can visit Fishermans Wharf, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and the iconic Lone Cypress Tree. Inland, parks like Garland Ranch Regional Park offer historic buildings and natural beauty.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Monterey County?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 580 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the accessibility of the trails, and the diverse natural beauty that ranges from ocean bluffs to serene oak woodlands, even within urban settings.
Are there any hidden gem urban trails in Monterey County?
While many coastal trails are well-known, exploring areas slightly off the main tourist paths can reveal hidden gems. Trails within smaller city parks or less-trafficked sections of larger reserves, such as the Rip Van Winkle Open Space, can offer a quieter experience with unique local flora and fauna.
Most popular routes in Monterey County
Most popular attractions in Monterey County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Check out more Hikes throughout Monterey County below and find the perfect route in your destination.
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
