Terrace Hill Open Space
Terrace Hill Open Space offers breathtaking panoramic views of San Luis Obispo with an easy, accessible hike, perfect for sunsets and quick nature esc...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Solitary walks
Terrace Hill Open Space
Best Time
Solitary walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Terrace Hill Open Space offers breathtaking panoramic views of San Luis Obispo with an easy, accessible hike, perfect for sunsets and quick nature escapes.
"It's a beautiful vantage point and stupid easy to hike up. Try getting there for a sunrise or sunset!"
👟 Bring Walking Shoes
Essential for enjoying the trails and summit views comfortably.
🌅 Sunset Picnic Spot
Perfect for a low-cost date with dinner, drinks, and music.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Summit
Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of San Luis Obispo and the surrounding hills. A perfect spot for photos!
Sunset Vista Point
Summit
Experience a memorable sunset with a picnic or a quiet moment overlooking the illuminated city.
Shaded Forest Trails
North side of the open space
Explore cooler, shaded paths lined with manzanita brush, offering a different ambiance from the summit views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Views, Easy Hike
Year-Round Solitude & Sunsets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Bring Walking Shoes
Essential for enjoying the trails and summit views comfortably.
🌅 Sunset Picnic Spot
Perfect for a low-cost date with dinner, drinks, and music.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
A great spot for walks with your furry friend.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trails
Side trails from Jennifer, Rachel, and Bishop Streets offer convenient access.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Bring Walking Shoes
Essential for enjoying the trails and summit views comfortably.
🌅 Sunset Picnic Spot
Perfect for a low-cost date with dinner, drinks, and music.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
A great spot for walks with your furry friend.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trails
Side trails from Jennifer, Rachel, and Bishop Streets offer convenient access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Terrace Hill Open Space for its stunning panoramic views and easy accessibility, making it a favorite for quick hikes, sunset picnics, and dog walks. While some note the lack of facilities, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its value as a free, scenic escape within San Luis Obispo.
"Close by for walks year round from home. Early to mid afternoon is great for solitary walks. Shaded forest trail with manzanita brush is on the North side. Side trails surround on lower levels from Jennifer at Rachel and from Bishop Streets."
J D
"If you would like to plan a low cost date for the wife or girlfriend. Terrace Hill is the perfect place for this to happen. Bring along dinner, beverages of your choice, and music. She well have a very memorable evening watching the sun go down."
805 SLO
"Good place to see the whole area. There is a smallish circular path at the top where you can walk around and get a 360 view. Some shade at the top and bench."
Kristy Kallback-Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Terrace Hill Open Space is easily accessible from various points in San Luis Obispo. You can find trail access from Jennifer, Rachel, and Bishop Streets, offering convenient entry points for a quick hike.
While specific parking lots aren't heavily advertised, street parking is generally available in the residential areas surrounding the open space, particularly near the trail access points.
Yes, biking is a popular way to access the open space, especially for those looking to explore the wider network of trails in San Luis Obispo.
Information on direct public transport routes to the immediate trailheads is limited, but San Luis Obispo has a bus system that can get you close to the general area, followed by a short walk.
The reviews mention access from Jennifer, Rachel, and Bishop Streets, which are good starting points for finding trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Terrace Hill Open Space is a public park and does not require any admission tickets. Entry is free for all visitors.
Terrace Hill Open Space is generally open year-round from sunrise to sunset, allowing for visits at various times of the day.
There is no entrance fee to access Terrace Hill Open Space, making it a budget-friendly option for outdoor recreation.
While it's open until sunset, it's best to check local regulations for specific nighttime access. However, sunset visits are highly recommended for the views.
For larger gatherings or organized events, it's advisable to check with the San Luis Obispo Parks and Recreation department regarding any necessary permits.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike up Terrace Hill is considered very easy, making it accessible for most fitness levels. It's a short climb to reach the summit and its stunning views.
You'll get incredible panoramic views of the entire San Luis Obispo area, including the city, surrounding hills, and distant landscapes.
Restroom facilities are not explicitly mentioned in reviews, so it's recommended to plan accordingly and use facilities before or after your visit.
Absolutely! The sweeping vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset, make it a prime location for photographers.
Yes, Terrace Hill Open Space is dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the trails and views with your canine companion.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within Terrace Hill Open Space itself. It's recommended to bring your own picnic or dine in downtown San Luis Obispo.
The summit offers a small circular path with benches and some shade, making it an ideal spot for a picnic while enjoying the views.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's always best to be discreet and responsible if bringing beverages for a picnic. Check local ordinances if unsure.
Downtown San Luis Obispo, just a short drive away, offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit any taste.
Typically, there are no regular food trucks or vendors operating within the open space itself.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset are considered the golden hours for photography at Terrace Hill, offering dramatic lighting and stunning colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, and a tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset.
The summit itself provides the primary vantage point for panoramic shots. The circular path at the top allows for 360-degree photo opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's recommended to check with the City of San Luis Obispo Parks and Recreation department for current rules regarding drones in open spaces.
The city skyline, rolling hills, and the changing colors of the sky during dawn and dusk are the most popular subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top, turning the visit into a fun outing. The shaded trails on the north side can offer a cooler experience on warmer days. Remember to bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities on-site. It's also a dog-friendly space, so your furry family members can join the adventure too!
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Plan a sunset picnic with your favorite food and drinks to create a truly romantic experience. The panoramic vistas as the sun sets are unparalleled and provide a beautiful backdrop for conversation and connection. It's a simple yet profound way to enjoy quality time together.
🏃♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
The relatively short but consistent incline to the top makes it a good spot for interval training. For hikers, it's a perfect place for a quick conditioning session or a warm-up before tackling more challenging nearby hikes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Terrace Hill
These trails are well-suited for a variety of activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful solo walk, a refreshing morning run, or a place to let your dog stretch its legs, Terrace Hill provides a welcoming environment. The city of San Luis Obispo manages over 7,000 acres of open space, and Terrace Hill is a key part of this accessible natural network, with trail maps and status updates often available through local ranger resources.
When planning your hike, consider the time of day. While the shaded trails offer respite, the summit can be exposed. The ease of access from surrounding streets like Jennifer, Rachel, and Bishop makes it a convenient option for locals and visitors alike, ensuring you can easily incorporate a dose of nature into your day.
The Magic of Sunset at Terrace Hill
Many visitors recommend bringing a picnic to enjoy as the sky transforms. The relatively easy hike up means you can easily carry dinner, drinks, and even some music to create a special evening. The small circular path at the top offers a 360-degree view, ensuring you won't miss any part of the breathtaking spectacle.
Beyond romantic outings, the summit is also a favored spot for those looking to run laps or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility as the day ends. The combination of accessibility, stunning views, and the natural beauty of the setting makes a sunset visit to Terrace Hill an unforgettable experience.
Terrace Hill: A Local's Perspective
Locals often highlight the versatility of the space. It's not just for a quick stroll; it's a place for exercise, quiet contemplation, and social gatherings. The ability to sit on a bench at the top and survey the entire area provides a unique sense of connection to the town.
The community also values its role in the broader San Luis Obispo open space system, which encompasses over 3,500 acres of trails. Terrace Hill, with its easily accessible summit and varied paths, stands out as a prime example of how these natural areas contribute to the quality of life in the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit