Bob Jones Trail
A scenic, paved 5-mile trail following San Luis Obispo Creek to Avila Beach, perfect for biking, walking, and a unique stop at The Secret Garden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Bob Jones Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, paved 5-mile trail following San Luis Obispo Creek to Avila Beach, perfect for biking, walking, and a unique stop at The Secret Garden.
"This paved trail is a must-do for biking, walking, or running to Avila Beach!"
Bike Rentals Available
Rent bikes in Avila Beach town to cruise the trail. Easy and fun! :bike:
Paved & Easy Path
Great for walking, running, or biking. Very accessible! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Secret Garden
Off the Bob Jones Trail
A unique oasis for drinks and snacks, nestled along the trail. A perfect, unexpected stop!
Avila Beach Waterfront
End of the Bob Jones Trail
The trail culminates at the picturesque Avila Beach, offering ocean views, dining, and shops.
San Luis Obispo Creek Path
Along the Bob Jones Trail
Enjoy a scenic, paved path following the gentle San Luis Obispo Creek.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Access & Parking
The Secret Garden Stop
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bike Rentals Available
Rent bikes in Avila Beach town to cruise the trail. Easy and fun! :bike:
Paved & Easy Path
Great for walking, running, or biking. Very accessible! :athletic_shoe:
Pack Snacks & Water
While there are stops, bringing your own is smart for longer trips. :water_wave:
Look for the Garden
The 'Secret Garden' is a hidden gem, keep an eye out on the left side! :seedling:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bike Rentals Available
Rent bikes in Avila Beach town to cruise the trail. Easy and fun! :bike:
Paved & Easy Path
Great for walking, running, or biking. Very accessible! :athletic_shoe:
Pack Snacks & Water
While there are stops, bringing your own is smart for longer trips. :water_wave:
Look for the Garden
The 'Secret Garden' is a hidden gem, keep an eye out on the left side! :seedling:
Carry Items Back
Remember you'll need to carry any purchases back to your starting point. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Bob Jones Trail for its accessibility, scenic beauty, and the unique charm of The Secret Garden. It's a highly recommended paved path for biking, walking, and running, leading to the enjoyable Avila Beach. Some note that parking can be challenging during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular trailhead is near the corner of Ontario Rd & Avila Beach Dr in Avila Beach, CA, offering free parking. For those starting in San Luis Obispo, taking Higuera to Ontario Rd is recommended to access the dedicated bike path.
Yes, there is free parking available at the main trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is advised.
Yes, you can start from San Luis Obispo. The route often involves surface streets before connecting to the dedicated trail. Following Higuera to Ontario Rd is a suggested path.
The Bob Jones Trail is approximately 5 miles one-way, making it a 10-mile round trip if you go from the main trailhead to the end and back. Some sources indicate it's about 3 miles from the trailhead to Avila Pier.
While public transport can get you to Avila Beach, direct access to the trailhead via public transport might be limited. It's generally easier to drive or bike to the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Bob Jones Trail is free to access and use. Parking at the main trailhead is also free.
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. There are no specific official operating hours posted, but it's a public access path.
No, tickets are not required as the trail is free to access. You can simply show up and enjoy the path.
The trail is open to walking, running, and biking. Some sections might be more suitable for certain activities. Always be mindful of other users.
Dogs are generally allowed on the Bob Jones Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Bob Jones Trail is a paved pathway, making it smooth and accessible for walking, running, and biking. It follows the San Luis Obispo Creek.
Don't miss the 'Secret Garden,' a unique stop for refreshments. The trail also leads to the beautiful Avila Beach waterfront.
Absolutely! The paved, relatively flat terrain makes it an excellent choice for runners.
Yes, the Bob Jones Bike Trail is a popular route for cyclists, offering a scenic ride from the trailhead to Avila Beach.
The 'Secret Garden' offers refreshments. At the end of the trail in Avila Beach, you'll find various dining options, shops, and beach access.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The 'Secret Garden' is a popular stop for drinks and snacks. The trail also leads directly to Avila Beach, where numerous restaurants and cafes are available.
The Secret Garden offers drinks like beer, wine, and kombucha, along with cinnamon rolls and other light snacks.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. It's a good idea to pack snacks and water, especially for longer excursions.
While there aren't designated picnic areas along the trail itself, the 'Secret Garden' has seating, and the end of the trail at Avila Beach offers plenty of spots to relax and enjoy food.
At Avila Beach, you'll find a variety of dining options, from casual seafood spots to cafes and restaurants, perfect for refueling after your trail adventure.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush greenery, the creek, the unique 'Secret Garden,' and the scenic Avila Beach waterfront. The trail offers diverse natural beauty.
Yes, the trail is ideal for nature photography with its creek views, diverse plant life, and bird sounds.
Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour lighting. Mornings can also be lovely with soft light and fewer people.
Yes, the Secret Garden is a picturesque spot and a popular place for photos.
Drone usage is typically restricted in many public parks and trails. It's best to check local regulations for Avila Beach and San Luis Obispo County before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Reaching Avila Beach offers playgrounds and plenty of space for kids to run around. Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as options are limited until you reach The Secret Garden or Avila Beach. Consider bringing a small backpack for easy carrying. The trail is also great for teaching kids about nature and local flora and fauna.
🚴 Cyclists & Bike Enthusiasts
+2 You can rent bikes in Avila Beach and ride the trail to its end, or start from San Luis Obispo for a longer cycling adventure. Highlights for cyclists: The trail's length (approx. 5 miles one-way) is ideal for a morning or afternoon ride. The stop at The Secret Garden provides a unique refreshment point, and the destination of Avila Beach offers rewarding views and amenities.
+1🚶♀️ Walkers & Runners
Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer run, the trail's length and accessibility make it versatile. Recommendations for walkers/runners: Start early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bob Jones City to Sea Trail Experience
+1 It's a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, providing a safe and dedicated route away from traffic. Many visitors enjoy renting bikes in Avila Beach and riding the trail out and back, or vice versa. The trail's gentle grade makes it accessible for most fitness levels, and the natural surroundings provide a tranquil escape.
Key features include its paved surface, creek-side path, and the eventual transition to ocean views as you approach Avila Beach. It's a versatile trail that caters to various interests, from active recreation to a relaxed exploration of the Central Coast.
Discovering The Secret Garden
+2 It's a place where you can pause your adventure to enjoy a refreshing drink, a snack, or simply relax in a unique, garden-like atmosphere. Visitors can find The Secret Garden on the left side of the trail, typically less than a mile from the main trailhead.
It's known for offering beverages like beer, wine, and kombucha, as well as treats such as cinnamon rolls. The ambiance is often described as relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect spot to break up your walk or bike ride. Pro-tip: While it's a wonderful place to stop, remember that anything you purchase will need to be carried back with you if you're biking or walking the full length of the trail.
Connecting to Avila Beach
The trail's endpoint offers direct access to the Avila Beach waterfront, a hub of activity and relaxation. Upon reaching Avila Beach, visitors are greeted with a variety of attractions. You can stroll along the pier, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants, browse the local shops, or simply relax on the sandy shores.
+1 The transition from the tranquil trail to the lively beach town provides a satisfying conclusion to the journey. For those looking to extend their experience, renting bikes in Avila Beach is a popular option, allowing for easy exploration of the town and its surroundings after completing the Bob Jones Trail.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit