Fave Five | Top Five Hikes in Santa Maria Valley
Practice social distancing and stay connected with Santa Maria Valley #SantaMariaStyle! Every other week, we’ll provide you with ways to enjoy Santa Maria Valley by bringing the fun and the flavors to the comfort of your own home.
Oso Flaco Lake Trail
Oso Flaco Lake Trail is an easy, 1.7-mile, famous out and back trail located in the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area. This trail features a lake and is good for all skill levels and perfect for families. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round.
Los Flores Ranch Park
With 15 miles of hiking trails and tons of wildlife to view along the way, one of the best ways to unplug on your Santa Maria trip is to enjoy a hike in Los Flores Ranch Park. Guided tours and group nature walks are available for those seeking a little more structure and some nature education, or, simply pick up a trail map and head into the park on your own.
Pismo Preserve
The Pismo Preserve is a stunningly beautiful outdoor nature preserve located 20 minutes north of Santa Maria, in Pismo Beach at the southern end of San Luis Obispo County. Visitors to the preserve can hike on more than 11 miles of trails that vary in terrain and scenery, from oaky woodlands to coastal ridgelines. The trails provide stunning panoramic views of the pacific coastline.
Rice Ranch Trail
Located near Orcutt Community Park is this easy, 3.2-mile loop trail, which features opportunities to see beautiful wild flowers and wildlife. The trail offers a number of nearby activity options and is accessible all year. Leashed dogs are also welcome on this trail.
Point Sal Overlook Trail
This is a hard, 9.8-mile out and back trail also located near Casmalia. This trail offers hikers with amazing views, but the road to the stop is steep and winding in certain areas, so come prepared. The trail is also used for fishing and is accessible year-round.
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