Garland Ranch Regional Park

Garland Ranch Regional Park is a hiker's paradise. Located in Monterey County's gorgeous Carmel Valley, it's also a great place to bring with your dog. You will find many off-leash areas in the park where your dog can roam freely.

There are a variety of hikes that are sure to please all levels of hiking abilities. Hiking trails wander alongside Garzas Creek, through Rumsien Indian habitation sites and nineteenth-century homesteading and logging settlements, along the Carmel River, and up the Santa Lucia Mountains. You can even hike to a waterfall!

One of the more challenging hikes is Snively's Ridge Trail. It has steep grades up to 30%, but rewards you with breathtaking views sweeping from the ocean to the mountains. Novices can enjoy the Buckeye Nature Trail, which is mostly flat. You can pick up a trail map at the Visitor's Center or print this PDF Trail Map from the park district's website.

In addition to hiking, visitors can also enjoy photography, horseback riding, birdwatching, and mountain biking (in the Cooper Ranch area).

Garland Ranch is home to a large number of animals. These include birds, mammals, and plants. Pick up the Bird Guide available at the Visitor's Center to see birds spotted in the park.

This regional park is part of the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District. For more information you can contact the District Ranger Station at (831) 659-4488.

Directions From Hwy. 1:Turn east onto Carmel Valley Road. Continue for 8.6 miles. The park's main entrance will be on your right.

Directions From Hwy. 101: Turn onto Route 68 east to Laureles Grade. Take Laureles Grade to Carmel Valley Road and turn right. Garland Ranch Regional Park's main entrance will be on your left.

After learning about Garland Ranch Regional Park, explore other exciting things to do in Monterey