The best walks and hikes around Del Rey Oaks
4.7
(119)
1,632
hikers
109
hikes
Hiking around Del Rey Oaks offers diverse natural features, with trails winding through canyons, wetlands, and along an ecologically significant creek. The region is characterized by a warm-summer Mediterranean climate, supporting varied flora and fauna. Del Rey Oaks is also a key part of the Fort Ord Rec Trail and Greenway (FORTAG), connecting local parks and natural preserves to a broader regional network.
Best hiking trails in Del Rey Oaks
- The most popular hiking route is Earl Moser, Madrone, Rhus, Iris, Coffeeberry, Pine, Sage Loop, a 5.9 miles (9.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 47 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores a variety of natural habitats within the area.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Jacks Peak via Olmsted Road, a moderate 5.4 miles (8.8 km) path. This trail offers views of the surrounding landscape and is often completed in about 2 hours 32 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, a 7.6 miles (12.2 km) trail leading through coastal areas, often completed in about 3 hours 7 minutes.
- Hiking around Del Rey Oaks is defined by wetland preserves, perennial creeks, and connections to a regional trail network. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy nature walks to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Del Rey Oaks are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 110 reviews. More than 1700 hikers have used komoot to explore Del Rey Oaks's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5
hikers
9.50km
02:47
280m
260m
Hike the Earl Moser, Madrone, Rhus, Iris, Coffeeberry, Pine, Sage Loop in Jacks Peak County Park, a moderate 5.9-mile route with wildflowers
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
8.75km
02:33
230m
240m
Hike the moderate 5.4-mile Jacks Peak via Olmsted Road route through a Monterey Pine forest, with panoramic views of Monterey Bay.
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2
hikers
12.2km
03:07
50m
40m
If you're looking for an accessible coastal walk with continuous ocean views, the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail delivers. This 7.6-mile (12.2 km) moderate hike follows a paved path along the former Southern Pacific Railroad, offering stunning vistas of sandy beaches and dramatic dunes. You'll pass iconic spots like Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row, with plenty of chances to spot sea otters and seals, especially in the celebrated section between Pacific Grove and Fisherman's Wharf.
This trail is incredibly convenient, connecting many of Monterey's top attractions directly. Parking is available at various points along the route, but popular areas can fill up quickly, so an early start is often a good idea. The trail is open year-round, but for the most pleasant experience and to avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting during the spring or fall.
What makes this trail truly special is its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, tracing the path of an old railway line. It provides a fantastic way to explore Monterey's vibrant culture and natural environment, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and even the Monterey Bay Aquarium. It's an ideal choice for families or anyone seeking an easy hike in Monterey Bay with high scenic payoff.
3.0
(1)
30
hikers
8.05km
02:06
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
32
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A lovely wharf you should see
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Nice flat run on footpath to aquarium.
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This scenic junction offers a rewarding pause point after the uphill approach. Filtered sunlight streams through towering pines, creating stunning views best enjoyed while catching your breath. Trail markers here are well-maintained, making navigation straightforward.
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Kalisa Moore, known as the “Queen of Cannery Row,” was born in Latvia and came to America after World War II. She bridged the eras, opening her fine dining restaurant when most canneries had already closed. Over the years, “Kalisa’s” evolved into a bohemian coffeehouse where artists, writers and poets “hung out.” Her weekend cabaret was filled with musicians, dancers and the occasional celebrity from the Monterey Jazz Festival. As time went on and Cannery Row was reborn, Kalisa became a major factor in preserving memories of Steinbeck’s era and promoted tourism and commerce as president of the Cannery Row Foundation. For fifty years, she was a friend to the famous and a mother to the needy with a local following that knew and loved her. Kalisa's La Ida Cafe was a very special time and place, and Kalisa will always be remembered as the "Queen of Cannery Row."
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Cannery Row, the waterfront district that boomed in the 1850s - For thousands of years it was home to the Ohlone, Esselen and Salinas tribes, and in the 19th century immigrants from Europe and Asia settled here to fish the waters, especially for sardines. Thanks to the canneries that resulted, Monterey became known as the "Sardine Capital of the World." John Steinbeck, born and raised in nearby Salinas, immortalized this era in his 1945 novel Cannery Row, and the name stuck.
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Bruce Ariss Way is a narrow alley, the pedestrian-only continuation of Irving Avenue between Wave Street and Cannery Row. What was once an unofficial walkway between the residential area of the row, across the railroad tracks, and the waterfront canneries has been converted into a small park. In the early 1990s, the City of Monterey relocated three worker's shacks from 866 Wave Street to this site and opened them to the public. They are interpreted as being occupied by a Japanese, a Filipino, and a Spanish family, respectively, alluding to the cultural mix that characterized cosmopolitan Cannery Row and representing the living conditions of workers between the 1920s and 1950s. There were many shacks like this in the neighborhood in the early 20th century, but these are the only remaining remnants of this housing type on Cannery Row.
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Nice, small (and free!) museum just before Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. Nice exhibition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in and around Del Rey Oaks?
Del Rey Oaks and its surrounding area offer nearly 100 hiking routes. These range from easy strolls through wetlands to more challenging moderate excursions, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
Are there easy, family-friendly hiking options in Del Rey Oaks?
Yes, Del Rey Oaks is very family-friendly, with 73 easy routes available. The Fishermans Wharf – Monterey State Historic Park loop from Monterey is a great easy option, offering a pleasant 2.8 km walk. The Frog Pond Wetland Preserve also features a gentle ¾-mile loop trail, perfect for nature walks with children.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Del Rey Oaks?
Hikers in Del Rey Oaks will encounter diverse natural features, including unique wetland preserves, such as the Frog Pond Wetland Preserve, and the ecologically significant Arroyo del Rey creek. The trails wind through sagebrush, willow canopies, and groves of redwoods, Coast Live Oak, and Monterey Pine trees, offering a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, there are several circular routes. A notable one is the Earl Moser, Madrone, Rhus, Iris, Coffeeberry, Pine, Sage Loop, which is a moderate 9.5 km trail that explores various natural habitats.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Del Rey Oaks?
Del Rey Oaks enjoys a warm-summer Mediterranean climate, making it ideal for year-round outdoor exploration. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summers are warm but generally comfortable for hiking. Even winter provides mild conditions suitable for trails.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Del Rey Oaks?
The trails in Del Rey Oaks are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.9 stars from over 110 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse terrain, the tranquility of the natural preserves, and the well-maintained paths that connect various points of interest.
Are there any notable attractions or landmarks near the hiking trails?
Yes, Del Rey Oaks is close to several interesting attractions. You can explore historical sites like Monterey State Historic Park and Cannery Row, Monterey. For scenic views, consider visiting Fishermans Wharf or taking a drive along the famous 17-mile Drive.
Can I access coastal hiking trails from Del Rey Oaks?
Absolutely. Del Rey Oaks offers convenient access to coastal hiking opportunities. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is a popular 12.2 km route that allows you to explore the scenic coastline.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on the trails?
Yes, especially at the Frog Pond Wetland Preserve, which is a haven for wildlife. You might spot Pacific tree frogs, various resident bird species, and migratory visitors. The Arroyo del Rey creek also supports a diverse array of plants and animals.
Does Del Rey Oaks connect to a larger trail network?
Yes, Del Rey Oaks is an integral part of the Fort Ord Rec Trail and Greenway (FORTAG), an extensive regional network of paved recreational trails. This system connects local parks, including the Frog Pond Wetland Preserve, to broader open spaces, offering extended exploration opportunities for hikers and cyclists.
Are there any trails that offer views of the wider Monterey Bay area?
Yes, trails like Jacks Peak via Olmsted Road, a moderate 8.8 km path, provide excellent views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of Monterey Bay. Jacks Peak County Park, nearby, is also known for its panoramic vistas.
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