California Coastal Trail

California

San Luis Obispo County

Pismo Beach

California Coastal Trail

Easy

2.6

(12)

hikers

California Coastal Trail

Q: Where can I park to access this section of the California Coastal Trail?

You can find convenient parking at Dinosaur Caves Park , which serves as a starting point for this route.

Q: Is this section of the California Coastal Trail dog-friendly?

Generally, many sections of the California Coastal Trail, especially within parks, allow dogs on a leash. It's always best to check local signage at Dinosaur Caves Park or Margo Dodd Park for specific regulations regarding pets.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

Thanks to California's temperate climate, this section of the California Coastal Trail offers pleasant hiking opportunities year-round. However, for the most comfortable experience, consider visiting during spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the coastal fog is less prevalent.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this trail?

No, this section of the California Coastal Trail is generally accessible to the public without the need for permits or entrance fees. The primary goal of the CCT is to enhance public access to the coast.

Q: How long does it take to hike this section of the California Coastal Trail?

This particular segment of the trail is relatively short, taking approximately 28 minutes to complete at a moderate pace.

Q: Is this section of the California Coastal Trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, this route is rated as 'easy' and is suitable for beginners and families. It features minimal elevation changes, making it a pleasant and accessible walk.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?

This section of the trail primarily features paved paths and compacted soil, typical of coastal park trails. You'll experience easy walking along bluff edges with scenic ocean views.

Q: What can I see along the route?

The trail offers stunning Pacific Ocean views throughout. You'll start near Dinosaur Caves Park and conclude at Margo Dodd Park , both offering beautiful coastal scenery and viewpoints.

Q: Does this trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, this route is part of the larger California Coastal Trail network. It also overlaps with sections of the Pacific Coast Bike Route (North) and Pacific Coast Bike Route (South), as well as the Shell Beach Multi-use Path.

Q: Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks along this trail?

Absolutely. The trail itself is a continuous viewpoint of the Pacific Ocean. Key points include the starting point at Dinosaur Caves Park and the destination, Margo Dodd Park , both renowned for their scenic coastal vistas.

00:28

1.76km

20m

Hiking

Hike an easy 1.1-mile section of the California Coastal Trail, offering ocean views and passing Dinosaur Caves Park and Margo Dodd Park.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

432 m

Dinosaur Caves Park

Highlight • Parking

Perched on ocean bluffs overlooking the Pacific, this scenic park offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and local history. The accessible paved paths wind along dramatic cliffs, treating visitors …

Tip by

879 m

Margo Dodd Park

Highlight • Viewpoint

A serene coastal gem neighboring Dinosaur Caves Park, Margo Dodd offers some of Pismo Beach's most captivating ocean vistas from its elevated position. The park's intimate setting features well-placed benches …

Tip by

1.76 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.46 km

300 m

Surfaces

993 m

413 m

300 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Wednesday 21 October

21°C

14°C

88 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access this section of the California Coastal Trail?

You can find convenient parking at Dinosaur Caves Park, which serves as a starting point for this route.

Is this section of the California Coastal Trail dog-friendly?

Generally, many sections of the California Coastal Trail, especially within parks, allow dogs on a leash. It's always best to check local signage at Dinosaur Caves Park or Margo Dodd Park for specific regulations regarding pets.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

Thanks to California's temperate climate, this section of the California Coastal Trail offers pleasant hiking opportunities year-round. However, for the most comfortable experience, consider visiting during spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the coastal fog is less prevalent.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this trail?

No, this section of the California Coastal Trail is generally accessible to the public without the need for permits or entrance fees. The primary goal of the CCT is to enhance public access to the coast.

How long does it take to hike this section of the California Coastal Trail?

This particular segment of the trail is relatively short, taking approximately 28 minutes to complete at a moderate pace.

Is this section of the California Coastal Trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, this route is rated as 'easy' and is suitable for beginners and families. It features minimal elevation changes, making it a pleasant and accessible walk.

What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?

This section of the trail primarily features paved paths and compacted soil, typical of coastal park trails. You'll experience easy walking along bluff edges with scenic ocean views.

What can I see along the route?

The trail offers stunning Pacific Ocean views throughout. You'll start near Dinosaur Caves Park and conclude at Margo Dodd Park, both offering beautiful coastal scenery and viewpoints.

Does this trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, this route is part of the larger California Coastal Trail network. It also overlaps with sections of the Pacific Coast Bike Route (North) and Pacific Coast Bike Route (South), as well as the Shell Beach Multi-use Path.

Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks along this trail?

Absolutely. The trail itself is a continuous viewpoint of the Pacific Ocean. Key points include the starting point at Dinosaur Caves Park and the destination, Margo Dodd Park, both renowned for their scenic coastal vistas.