Hike El Chorro Park

     El Chorro Regional Park is located about 3.5 miles north of San Luis Obispo, directly across from Cuesta College. Dairy Creek Golf Course, shares this expansive property which used be grazing land for cows (that's why it's called "Dairy Creek"). Many dairy farms were located in the area, prior to the govenment purchasing the land in the 1940s. Camp San Luis Obispo was created to train soldiers, and used this property to do so, until the Nixon administration in 1972. President Nixon gave the land, that is now El Chorro Park, to San Luis Obispo County. Under county control, the land is used for golfing, camping, events, a botanical garden, sports, and most important to this article....hiking.  

     This hike has a steady incline to it, so you get to the panoramic view quickly. However, the terrain is not so steep that beginers or parents with their kids will have trouble. The quick and easy trek to start seeing the majesty of the surrounding area, makes this a great hike for Cuesta students between classes.

In order to find the trailhead, continue to the very last parking lot in El Chorro Park. From there, the pedestrian gate is about .25 miles along the road. The Sierra Club has provided an opportunity to hike a self-guided nature trail at this location. The signs are clearly visible, and you should have no problem following them.

Approximately .5 miles up the trail, you will make a right turn toward Eagle Rock. After finishing the final mile, you will arrive to the final viewing area. From the top you are able to see all 9 Morros, From Morro Rock, to Islay Hill, you will see the "sisters" lie never before.

This hike, is "pound-for-pound" on of the greatest hikes the area has to offer (if you disagree, comment with your favorite). With limited effort, you can see nature's splendor laid out before you. Don't forget to tag your pictures from the top #ExploreSloCounty when you post them to Instagram! Have fun, stay safe, and happy hiking!!!