The best city hikes and walks in Fort Ord Dunes State Park
4.7
(105)
1,415
hikers
61
hikes
Urban hiking trails in Fort Ord Dunes State Park traverse a unique landscape of restored coastal dunes and four miles of ocean beach along Monterey Bay. The park features a mix of sandy paths and paved recreation trails, offering continuous ocean vistas. Remnants of its past as a U.S. Army training base, including old ammo bunkers, are integrated into the natural environment. This area provides accessible routes for exploring both natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Best urban hiking trails in…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
34.7km
08:56
170m
170m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
890m
00:14
0m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
12.2km
03:07
50m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(17)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
4.54km
01:10
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A lovely wharf you should see
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Nice flat run on footpath to aquarium.
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Fishwife, adjacent to the Beachcomber Motel, is steps away from Asilomar Beach. The restaurant serves fresh seafood with a Caribbean twist in a relaxed, beachside setting. It is a great place to stop for lunch, and while you're here, don't miss a chance to try a slice of their legendary homemade key lime pie!
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Kalisa Moore, known as the “Queen of Cannery Row,” was born in Latvia and came to America after World War II. She bridged the eras, opening her fine dining restaurant when most canneries had already closed. Over the years, “Kalisa’s” evolved into a bohemian coffeehouse where artists, writers and poets “hung out.” Her weekend cabaret was filled with musicians, dancers and the occasional celebrity from the Monterey Jazz Festival. As time went on and Cannery Row was reborn, Kalisa became a major factor in preserving memories of Steinbeck’s era and promoted tourism and commerce as president of the Cannery Row Foundation. For fifty years, she was a friend to the famous and a mother to the needy with a local following that knew and loved her. Kalisa's La Ida Cafe was a very special time and place, and Kalisa will always be remembered as the "Queen of Cannery Row."
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Cannery Row, the waterfront district that boomed in the 1850s - For thousands of years it was home to the Ohlone, Esselen and Salinas tribes, and in the 19th century immigrants from Europe and Asia settled here to fish the waters, especially for sardines. Thanks to the canneries that resulted, Monterey became known as the "Sardine Capital of the World." John Steinbeck, born and raised in nearby Salinas, immortalized this era in his 1945 novel Cannery Row, and the name stuck.
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Bruce Ariss Way is a narrow alley, the pedestrian-only continuation of Irving Avenue between Wave Street and Cannery Row. What was once an unofficial walkway between the residential area of the row, across the railroad tracks, and the waterfront canneries has been converted into a small park. In the early 1990s, the City of Monterey relocated three worker's shacks from 866 Wave Street to this site and opened them to the public. They are interpreted as being occupied by a Japanese, a Filipino, and a Spanish family, respectively, alluding to the cultural mix that characterized cosmopolitan Cannery Row and representing the living conditions of workers between the 1920s and 1950s. There were many shacks like this in the neighborhood in the early 20th century, but these are the only remaining remnants of this housing type on Cannery Row.
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Nice, small (and free!) museum just before Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. Nice exhibition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Fort Ord Dunes State Park?
Fort Ord Dunes State Park offers over 45 urban hiking trails, catering to various preferences. Most of these, around 35, are considered easy, making them accessible for many visitors.
What kind of terrain can I expect on urban hikes in Fort Ord Dunes State Park?
Urban hikes in Fort Ord Dunes State Park primarily feature expansive rolling coastal dunes and four miles of pristine ocean beach. You'll find a mix of sandy paths and paved recreation trails, offering continuous ocean vistas and a unique blend of natural and restored landscapes.
Are there any easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, many urban trails here are easy and family-friendly. An excellent option is the Marina Dunes Preserve Trail, which is relatively short and offers a gentle introduction to the park's coastal environment. Another easy choice is the Monterey Beach – Fishermans Wharf loop from Monterey, providing pleasant coastal views.
Can I bring my dog on the urban hiking trails?
Dogs are permitted on paved trails within Fort Ord Dunes State Park, but they must always be kept on a leash. To protect sensitive habitats and endangered species, dogs are not allowed on spur trails leading to the beach or on the beach itself.
What interesting landmarks or historical sites can I see along the urban trails?
As you explore the urban trails, you can discover remnants of the area's past as a U.S. Army training base, including old ammo bunkers tucked within the dunes. Interpretive signs and a mobile phone audio tour provide historical context. A boardwalk also leads to a bluff top viewing platform, offering panoramic views of Monterey Bay.
What is the best time of year to go urban hiking in Fort Ord Dunes State Park?
The park is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall often offer the most pleasant weather for urban hiking, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. These seasons are also excellent for wildlife viewing, as many migratory birds pass through the area.
Are there any longer or more challenging urban routes for experienced hikers?
While most urban trails are easy to moderate, the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail offers a more challenging experience, stretching over 34 kilometers. This route provides extensive coastal views and a longer duration for those seeking a more demanding urban adventure.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while urban hiking?
Fort Ord Dunes State Park is a significant habitat for various wildlife. You might spot seals, sea lions, and a wide variety of sea and shore birds. The park is also home to endangered species like the western snowy plover, Smith's blue butterfly, and California legless lizard, making it an ecologically rich area.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes in the park?
Yes, there are several loop options for urban hikers. For example, the Monterey Canning Company – View of Monterey Harbor loop from Monterey State Beach offers a moderate circular walk with scenic views of the harbor and coastline.
How do other hikers rate the urban trails in Fort Ord Dunes State Park?
The urban trails in Fort Ord Dunes State Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from nearly 100 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning ocean views, the well-maintained paths, and the unique blend of natural beauty and historical elements.
Is there public transport or parking available for accessing the urban trails?
While the guide focuses on the trails themselves, Fort Ord Dunes State Park generally offers parking facilities. For specific public transport options to the park, it's advisable to check local transit schedules as these can vary.
What are some moderate urban hiking options in the park?
For a moderate urban hike, consider the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail. This route offers a good balance of distance and elevation, providing scenic coastal views without being overly strenuous.
Most popular routes in Fort Ord Dunes State Park
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