Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail

Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail winds along the coast of Monterey, California with views of the Pacific Ocean, marine mammals, and other glorious sites. The trail is also called the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. The trail is 18 miles running from Pacific Grove to Castroville, providing a tour of Monterey Peninsula and Monterey to visitors. The trail also follows the Southern Pacific Railroad Line at certain points.

Trail access can be found at Pacific Grove Trailhead off of Highway 1 and Del Monte Avenue. There is parking close to Lighthouse Avenue, where visitors can begin their walk. The lot requires payment, unless you can find street parking. The trail has some seasonal restrictions, such as when the fog is very dense. Monterey Bay suffers from quick changes in temperature and weather conditions, requiring visitors to be prepared.

As visitors follow the trail they will be taken north towards Lovers Point Trailhead and along the rocky shoreline. There are plenty of photographic opportunities along the way, even in the first .3 miles. There is also a mural at .3 mile showing the history of Monterey and the bay. Cannery Row is part of the trail, where visitors will see the famous Steinbeck location.