Poly Canyon Design Village
Explore a unique hillside showcasing student-built architectural wonders amidst scenic canyon trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Poly Canyon Design Village
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a unique hillside showcasing student-built architectural wonders amidst scenic canyon trails.
"A cool spot to hike with lots to see, showcasing student creativity in a beautiful setting."
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
There's very little shade, so stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Architectural Graveyard
Poly Canyon
Explore unique, student-built structures nestled in a scenic canyon. A true 'learn by doing' showcase!
Panoramic Canyon Views
Hilltop overlooking the canyon
Hike to the peak for breathtaking, expansive views of the surrounding hills and the unique structures below.
Recent Student Projects
Scattered throughout the canyon
Discover newer, well-preserved structures alongside older, decaying ones, showing the evolution of design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
What to Wear and Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
There's very little shade, so stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. :droplet:
Respect the Structures
These are student projects. Admire them, but don't damage or vandalize them. :pray:
Check Parking Info
Campus parking can be tricky. Look into parking apps or designated visitor lots beforehand. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and uneven. Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Plenty of Water
There's very little shade, so stay hydrated, especially on warmer days. :droplet:
Respect the Structures
These are student projects. Admire them, but don't damage or vandalize them. :pray:
Check Parking Info
Campus parking can be tricky. Look into parking apps or designated visitor lots beforehand. :car:
Explore Beyond the First Structures
The hike continues past the initial buildings, leading to more unique designs and stunning views. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique 'architectural graveyard' and the beautiful hiking trails, calling it a hidden gem. The 'learn by doing' aspect of the student-built structures is highly praised, offering a glimpse into creative innovation. Some note the lack of shade and the need for proper hiking gear, while parking on campus can sometimes be a minor challenge.
"What a cool spot to hike too. Difficult to find parking in campus if you don’t know where to park. I parked in front of the food hall. Downloaded the parking app and that was it.
Lots to see. No shade in the way there. Plenty of areas to sit. You can walk into the structures. Be respectful these were hours and hard work of past students. Enjoy"
Miguel June
"Hiked in this trail for the first time, November/22/20.
The trail starts right in the middle of the campus.
There’s no parking fee, no entrance fee, I didn’t see bathroom at the trailhead.
My hike was a loop 7 miles, around 1,200 feet of the elevation gain.
I was started at something very interesting, those architecture graveyard projects, it was fun, I enjoyed a lot.
Following the dirt, rock, straight up trail, it leads me to the Serenity Swing, (tree of life).
The views of the canyon from the peak is truly breathtaking, it’s spectacular place to take a break.
I was ended my hike at the ranch.
It is not too difficult hike, well maintained trails, no shade, hiking shoes needed, plenty of water, hat, sunblock, snacks.
Happy Hike Everyone!!!"
Tina Nguyen
"Great morning time adventure for family and kids. Park on campus close to the poly canyon gate. We parked by the facilities management lot in a spot NOT labeled “staff.” About a mile hike up to the first structures, all of which were built by cal poly students with engineers and architects to help. Most projects are older, circa 65-85 and in various states of decay. This is amazing in itself and allows the viewer to see how each structure was fabricated. Although I was pleased to see a recent platform, built in 2019, and looking great. “Learn by doing” the cal poly moto is on display and reassuring to the public that this central coastal town will continue to churn out future builders, even if UC Berkeley does a better job of that. Ha ha ha ha ha ha. Go bears."
David Kesting
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Design Village is located within Cal Poly's campus in San Luis Obispo. You'll typically start your hike from a designated trailhead on campus. Parking can be found in various campus lots; it's recommended to check Cal Poly's parking website or use a parking app for the most current information and fees.
Yes, parking is available on the Cal Poly campus. Some visitors have found success parking near the food halls or facilities management lots, but always check signage and consider using a parking app for guidance.
While direct public transport to the trailhead might be limited, you can likely take a bus to the Cal Poly campus and then walk to the starting point of the hike. Check local transit schedules for routes serving the university.
The trailhead is generally located in the middle of campus. Following signs for Poly Canyon or looking for the start of the hiking trail should lead you there.
While the main trails are relatively clear, having a map or using a GPS app on your phone can be helpful, especially if you plan to explore beyond the most obvious structures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee or ticket required to visit the Poly Canyon Design Village. It's an open-access area for hiking and exploration.
There are no admission fees for the Design Village itself. However, you may incur parking fees if you drive onto the Cal Poly campus.
The Design Village is accessible during daylight hours, as it's an outdoor hiking area. There are no set operating hours, but it's best to visit during safe daylight times.
Yes, the Poly Canyon Design Village is accessible year-round. Weather conditions can vary, so check the forecast before your visit.
Yes, you can get a good feel for the unique structures with a shorter visit, but a longer hike allows for more in-depth exploration and reaching the scenic viewpoints.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
It's an outdoor laboratory and exhibition space on Cal Poly's campus where architecture and engineering students design and build experimental structures. It's often referred to as an 'architectural graveyard' due to the collection of past projects.
The hike to the first structures is about a mile, but exploring the entire area and reaching the viewpoints can make it a 3-7 mile round trip, depending on your route.
While many structures are open for exploration, exercise caution. They are student-built prototypes and may be in various states of decay. Be respectful and mindful of your surroundings.
You'll find beautiful views of the surrounding rolling hills and the canyon. Hiking to the higher points offers spectacular panoramic vistas.
Absolutely! The unique architecture against the natural landscape makes for incredible photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within Poly Canyon. You'll need to bring your own snacks and water or plan to eat on the Cal Poly campus or in downtown San Luis Obispo.
You can bring your own food for a picnic, but there are no designated picnic areas. It's best to find a comfortable spot on the trail or near a structure to enjoy your meal. Remember to pack out all trash.
The Cal Poly campus has several dining halls and cafes. Downtown San Luis Obispo, a short drive away, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and warm tones. Golden hour is particularly stunning here.
You can capture unique architectural details, wide landscape shots of the canyon, and creative compositions of the student-built structures.
Drone usage is typically restricted on university campuses and in natural areas. It's best to check Cal Poly's specific drone policy before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the structures and the landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details.
Yes, photographing the student projects is encouraged! They are meant to be admired and shared.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities. Ensure kids wear appropriate footwear and sun protection. Encourage them to observe the different designs and imagine the students who built them. It's a great opportunity for them to explore and be creative in a natural setting.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the natural setting of the canyon, with its rolling hills and open skies. While the focus is on the structures, the surrounding environment is equally captivating. Remember to pack essentials like water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes to fully enjoy the outdoor adventure.
📸 Photographers and Art Enthusiasts
The variety of structures, from weathered relics to more recent installations, offers diverse subjects for capturing compelling images. Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset can yield particularly dramatic lighting for your shots. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the scale of the structures and the landscape, or use a telephoto lens to focus on intricate details.
Remember to be respectful of the student work and the natural environment while you capture your artistic vision. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Learn by Doing' Philosophy
+1The process involves not just conceptualization but also the physical labor of transporting materials by hand to the canyon site and constructing the shelters. This rite of passage fosters a strong sense of community among students, who often collaborate and support each other throughout the Design Village events.
+1Visitors can witness the evolution of this program by observing structures from different eras, from older, weathered prototypes to more recent, innovative designs. It's a living testament to the creativity and dedication of Cal Poly students, offering a unique glimpse into the future of architectural and engineering innovation.
Exploring the Architectural Graveyard
As you hike through the canyon, you'll encounter structures in various states of preservation. Some are remarkably intact, showcasing the original vision and craftsmanship, while others have succumbed to the elements, offering a poignant reminder of the passage of time. This mix of old and new provides a unique perspective on the history of design and construction at Cal Poly.
Visitors are encouraged to walk among these creations, appreciating the ingenuity and effort that went into each one. It's a chance to step into a world of creative experimentation and imagine the student experiences that shaped these unique architectural pieces.
The Hiking Experience
While the initial walk to the first structures is about a mile, the full exploration can extend to several miles, with some trails leading to higher vantage points offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the canyon below.
Many visitors describe the hike as beautiful and calming, with the unique architectural elements adding an artistic dimension to the natural scenery. It's a perfect blend of outdoor activity and creative discovery, appealing to hikers, art enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit