Cerro Alto Summit – San Luis Obispo County

Cerro Alto Summit – San Luis Obispo County

Location: San Luis Obispo County, CA
Miles: 7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3.5 hours
Users: Hikers, dogs, mountain bikes, and horses permitted. No wheelchair access.

Photo Source: peakery

The Hike: 

The Cerro Alto Summit is one of the highest points of San Luis Obispo County. This peak delivers a wonderful panoramic view. It almost seems like you can see the entire surrounding county from the top of this large peak.

There are a couple of ways that you can reach the summit. The shortest route takes you up a steep almost 2 mile ascent. There is also a more gradual trail that will take you to a junction part of the way up the mountain. This is the trail that is used most often and is the most recommended.

There is a spur trail located on a southern ridge of the summit. All of the trails provide wonderful views over the Los Padres National Forest.

Cerro Alto Summit is located in Morro Bay California and offers an elevation change of 1,600 feet. The trails are open to bikes, dogs, and hikers. One stipulation for hiking or biking in this area is that you are required to have a National Forest Adventure pass in order to enter.

Top 3 Adventure Hacks

1) Watch the stars at night

Go camping at Cerro Alto Campground and do some stargazing. You can book ahead for $25 per night! Bring also a flashlight in case you need it in the dark.

2) Pack light

Always pack light when you go hiking so you can move better and easier. But never forget the essentials, water to stay hydrated, snacks to keep you energized, and a map just in case.

3) Keep your dog on a leash

If in case you let your dog tag along with you, put them on a leash.