The Calif. Highway 1 Discovery Route is located along the coast and inland valleys of San Luis Obispo County and offers breath­tak­ing beach trails, beautiful nature hikes, and an inspiring waterfall or two. With amazing weather all year long, we've pulled together a list of the top hikes that will knock your socks off this winter. No matter your fitness level, there is something for everyone.

Spanning more than 101 miles of prime Pacific coastline conveniently located midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, the California Highway 1 Discovery Route winds through 10 diverse artisan towns, seaside villages and destination wine country. From San Simeon & Ragged Point, Cambria, Cayucos, Los Osos/Baywood Park, and Avila Beach & Valley, to Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley, Oceano and Nipomo, enjoy the fresh sea air as you hike along the coast, or beautiful views as you drive through the vineyards of Edna and Arroyo Grande Valley, and abundant natural settings as you hike up to Big Falls. Washington Post travel writer Bob Carden said it best, "Dotted with small towns and family-owned vineyards, the region is an oft-overlooked cove of quiet, natural beauty."

In addition, most of the top 15 hikes listed below are in regions that provide opportunities for visitors to take the next step in eco-travel. The Calif. Highway 1 Discovery Route launched the country's first Stewardship Travel Program, which embodies ecotourism's qualities of appreciation for place and culture, adventure, enjoyment and learning, and takes it one step further by providing exciting opportunities to participate in regional conservation and preservation through direct action and contributions. Interested travelers can easily add a meaningful activity to their vacation itineraries from one of the 70 activities found along the California Highway 1 Discovery Route.

Go to http://www.ci.winecoastcountry.com/files/H1DR_Top15WinterHikes.pdf for details on the top 15 winter beach and nature hikes and more. 

Share this article: