de Anza Hiking Trail

Jim Green Hiking Trail

Rocky Canyon Hiking Trail

Lake Park Hiking Trail

de Anza Hiking Trail (Juan Bautista de Anza)

The de Anza trail is named after a Spanish explorer, Juan Bautista de Anza, a third generation frontier solder of New Spain, who led a large group of emigrants from Sonora Mexico to Northern California in 1776. The trail helped open California’s rich valleys to European influences. Many of the state’s mission settlements were successful due largely to de Anza’s efforts. At one point during his lengthy journey, de Anza made camp along the Salinas River near what is now present-day Atascadero.

In 1990, Congress acknowledged the significance of the Anza expeditions by establishing the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. This historic trail passes through Atascadero in close proximity to the Salinas River. In May of 1998, the Atascadero Mutual Water Company and the City of Atascadero opened segments of the trail for public use.

The Atascadero Mutual Water Company trail offers a flat five mile trek. The number of shady spots provided by giant oaks that surround this trail makes it a great spot to walk when temperatures soar. To follow a route similar to that taken by the famous Spanish explorer start at 4545 Sycamore Rd. (Atascadero Water Company’s pumping station & maintenance yard). The trail begins on an access road for the water company, which does not provide a great deal of scenery; however, in less than one mile you will find yourself on an established trail where the native plants and animals will surround you with a variety of unique shapes, smells and sounds. The entire round trip loop is approximately 5.8 miles in length. Trail markers are easy to find and should keep most hikers on the trail for the entire length of the journey.

The City’s section of the trail begins at 7785 Aragon and parallels the Salinas river south, looping back past the City’s water treatment plant. The entire length of the trail is approximately 1.2 miles.

The de Anza trails are open to walkers, bikers and horseback riders only. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. For more information on the Juan Bautista de Anza trail please contact the City of Atascadero Community Services Dept. (805) 461-5000.

The Jim Green trail begins at the end of Cortez Ave. winding around the north side of Chalk Mountain Golf Course, which is part of the county's 230 acre regional park.

Named after the late Jim Green of Atascadero, an outdoor enthusiast responsible for the formation of many hiking and equestrian trails in San Luis Obispo county, the trail begins rather inauspiciously, being flanked by residential homes on one side and railroad tracks on the other, however, within a couple of hundred feet you start to experience more of a true "wilderness feeling." A large trail marker with information about the area, will also come into view at this point and you will have to choose which direction to take as the trail is a two-mile loop.

Open to hikers, equestrians, bicyclists, and dogs, the trail is an excellent spot for those who want a quick walk (about 40 minutes) that is neither too strenuous nor too easy. The trail is not open to motorized vehicles.

Rocky Canyon Hiking Trail

An ideal trail for hikers, cyclists and equestrians. The LaPaloma Creek Park located on Viejo Camino serves as an excellent trailhead. Travel east on Halcon Rd, crossing the Railroad and Salinas River to Rocky Canyon Rd. Proceed east one mile on Rocky Canyon Rd., enter and pass through the Quarry area paying heed to all signs. A modest climb up the canyon on an old jeep road approximately one mile, will take you to a wide, flat, dirt road. The road travels east approximately four miles to Hwy 229 and the outskirts of Creston.

The Historic town of Creston offers several watering spots and cool shade before your return trip to Atascadero.

Lake Park Hiking Trail

Atascadero Lake Park is open to walkers and joggers. A lovely park nestled in Atascadero with a road and pathway surrounding a beautiful lake. Walk or jog around the Lake and through the Park to complete approximately 2 miles.