Published June 4th, 2025
BY SAVANNA RADOWICZ
For those with a goal to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty of the Carmel area this summer, there is no better way than to take advantage of the extensive, scenic hikes. Whether in the market for a weekend backpacking trip, a half-day hike or a mild climb, here is a collection of the best hikes in the area in order from least to most difficult.
Waterfall Trail to the Mesa Pond
On a sunny summer day Garland Park’s many trails create the perfect opportunity to spend the afternoon outside. Photo by SAVANNA RADOWICZ
Accessible from Garland Ranch Regional Park’s main entrance, the Waterfall Trail is one of the many ways to
reach the open plains of the mesa. The Lupin Loop Trail leads directly to Waterfall Trail, where a canopy of native trees cover the moderate climb to the top. While the waterfall itself is not usually flowing, the moss covered rocks and trickling stream make for a peaceful climb.
With shade-covered steps and a path alongside the river, the waterfall is perfect for a hot summer day. Photo by SAVANNA RADOWICZ
Laureles Trail
A small but mighty climb, Laureles Trail is perfect for those trying to fit a good
workout into a couple of hours. The steep ascent is complemented by scattered views of Carmel Valley Village below. At the top, there is a bench perfectly nestled into the shade and rolling hills for further exploration. Start by parking at the end of Los Helechos road and following the Carmel River Trail before taking the first left up Laureles.
Even on a cloudy day, views from the fire lookout boast impeccable skylines. Photo by SAVANNA RADOWICZ
Carmel Valley Fire Lookout
With many different routes to the top, this hike is truly a choose your own adventure. Once summiting, enjoy a hilltop lunch with a 360 degree view of the Santa Lucia Mountains, Carmel Valley Village, Carmel-By-The Sea and even the Moss Landing smoke stacks if skies are clear. Make sure to pack your trash! Hikers can start from the end of Via Las Encinas, Garland Park main entrance or even Carmel Valley Ranch to avoid the steep climb up the front.
At 4.6 miles long, the Soberanes Canyon Loop trail gives hikers the best of both worlds with winding ocean-view switchbacks and red wood pathways. Photo by SAVANNA RADOWICZ
Soberanes Canyon Loop Trail
From a 180-degree view of the stunning Big Sur coast to towering redwoods and a trickling stream, this challenging hike truly has everything. While the entire loop includes some rather steep stretches of hill climbs, it can be simplified into a very mild stroll to the end of the redwood canyon and back out. Little suggestion for those wanting to complete the whole hike–start at sunrise and go up the back half of the loop to see beautifully colored ocean views and to reach the shade before it gets too hot.
Pine Valley from Angel Camp
This Tassajara trail is not for the faint of heart. With sun-exposed hillsides and a few steep segments, it is best turned into a weekend backpacking trip. Descending into the valley is nothing short of jaw-dropping with grand rock formations to the right and a shaded stream to the left, perfect for exploring without the distraction of screens. Drive into Angel Camp before embarking on the Pine Ridge Trail. The trail goes all the way out to Big Sur, but the Pine Valley camp sites are about six miles in.
