Ano Nuevo State Park - Hiking

Review

Intro

Fifty-five miles south of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge, Ano Nuevo State Park is the perfect place for a family adventure. Within the park, there are sensitive habitats and a nature preserve.

What Makes It Great

That preserve has been created to protect one of the largest colonies of elephant seals, which uses the park to breed from December to March. During that time, access is available only via a guided three-mile hike led by park naturalists. Get reservations early. Everyone wants to see the elephant seals. Typically, pregnant females give birth in late January. By March, small seal pups are playing on the dunes and in tide pools before heading out to sea with their mothers. After the hike, check out the visitor's center for more information about these fascinating animals.

Who is Going to Love It

Families, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts will benefit the most from the mellow but scenic trails. Children get a kick out of the elephant seals - as do their parents - and the preserve is teeming with seaside wildlife. 

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

The park is located at 1 New Years Creek Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060. The entrance fee is $10 per vehicle.