3 Best Hiking Trails in Santa Maria, CA

“Jim May Park includes a loop-type trail, excellent for hiking, walking, and jogging. The trail is considered an easy to moderately challenging trail route. The trail is also a trail where visitors can see the natural sightseeing of plants and trees. Jim May Park's expansive grass and a beautiful huge lake full of wildlife and surrounded by a walking trail are just a few of the reasons to visit. There is also a BBQ pit and a large playground in the park. Take the view from the pier or picnic in the covered picnic area. On-site restrooms are available. Visitors can walk around the pond, and there is a nice platform to look at the ducks and other birds on the trail.”

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“Monarch Butterfly is an ideal destination that provides breathtaking views The Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove is one of only five spots in the state where over 10,000 butterflies are counted each year. The Grove has thousands of brilliant orange and black Monarch Butterflies migrate to Pismo State Beach each year, a spot critical to their successful journey, seeking refuge from the harsh northern winters. The grove is easily accessible from CA State Highway 1, which runs along the southern edge of Pismo Beach. The butterflies congregate on the branches of towering, majestic Eucalyptus trees that line a riparian estuary that flows into the Pacific Ocean from late October to February.”

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“Orcutt Trails includes a 3.1-mile moderately trafficked circle with magnificent views of the surrounding hills and villages. The trailhead has a beautiful dog park with little and large dog portions. During the trail, Visitors can see the different varieties of plants and trees and enjoy and explore a variety of plants within the area. The trail is excellent for hiking, walking, and riding. Dogs are allowed on the trails but must be on a leash in some areas. Visit the Open Space in pairs or groups to see the natural beauty of the Orcutt Trails. The trailhead is suitable for kids.”

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