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Bob Jones Trail

San Luis Obispo, United States

A scenic, paved 5-mile trail following San Luis Obispo Creek to Avila Beach, perfect for biking, walking, and a unique stop at The Secret Garden.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Bob Jones Trail - Image 1

Bob Jones Trail

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic, paved 5-mile trail following San Luis Obispo Creek to Avila Beach, perfect for biking, walking, and a unique stop at The Secret Garden.

"This paved trail is a must-do for biking, walking, or running to Avila Beach!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bike Rentals Available

Rent bikes in Avila Beach town to cruise the trail. Easy and fun! 🚲

Paved & Easy Path

Great for walking, running, or biking. Very accessible! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Secret Garden

The Secret Garden

Off the Bob Jones Trail

A unique oasis for drinks and snacks, nestled along the trail. A perfect, unexpected stop!

Avila Beach Waterfront

Avila Beach Waterfront

End of the Bob Jones Trail

The trail culminates at the picturesque Avila Beach, offering ocean views, dining, and shops.

San Luis Obispo Creek Path

San Luis Obispo Creek Path

Along the Bob Jones Trail

Enjoy a scenic, paved path following the gentle San Luis Obispo Creek.

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Planning Your Visit

Trailhead Access & Parking

Finding the right trailhead is key! Many opt for the main lot near Ontario Rd & Avila Beach Dr for easy access to the paved path. Parking can fill up, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Some suggest starting from San Luis Obispo for a longer ride, but be prepared for surface streets before hitting the dedicated trail. Reddit

The Secret Garden Stop

Don't miss the charming 'Secret Garden' located off the Bob Jones Trail, often associated with Sycamore Mineral Springs. It's a popular pit stop for drinks and snacks, offering a unique break amidst the natural beauty. TikTokInstagram+2

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, pleasant temps
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, but busier
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sping quarter is in full swing ☺️🌸🍃#spring #springquarter #bobjonestrail #avila #avilabeach #sanluisobispo #slo #calpolyslo #weekend #centralcoast #highstreetdeli #baseball
@kkateharrison
3.1K likes • 26.6K views

Bike Rentals Available

Rent bikes in Avila Beach town to cruise the trail. Easy and fun! 🚲 Instagram

Paved & Easy Path

Great for walking, running, or biking. Very accessible! :athletic_shoe: TikTokInstagram

Guess I'm The problem 🫶🏼 #avilabeach #bobjonestrail #thesecretgarden #sycamoremineralsprings
@maybelline8316
768 likes • 9.7K views
Have you checked out The Secret Garden off the Bob jones trail? @sycamoresprings is behind this awesome spot! It’s best to park at the Bob Jones trail head by the 101 and walk less than a mile, you’ll find it on the left side. Great place to stop for a beer, glass of wine or kombucha with a cinnamon roll. They have games, plenty of seating, and occasionally have live music. We went as a family a...
thegoodslolife.re
24 likes • 991 views

Pack Snacks & Water

While there are stops, bringing your own is smart for longer trips. :water_wave:

Look for the Garden

The 'Secret Garden' is a hidden gem, keep an eye out on the left side! :seedling: Instagram

Thursday are a fun day we go to the Local Bob Jones Trail 😊 We had 2 adventure walks, 3 day trains and 1 board and train out with us today 🤩 #pawsupvacay #nipomodogtrainer #nipomodogdaycare
pawsup_vacay
29 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bike Rentals Available

Rent bikes in Avila Beach town to cruise the trail. Easy and fun! 🚲 Instagram

Paved & Easy Path

Great for walking, running, or biking. Very accessible! :athletic_shoe: TikTokInstagram

Pack Snacks & Water

While there are stops, bringing your own is smart for longer trips. :water_wave:

Look for the Garden

The 'Secret Garden' is a hidden gem, keep an eye out on the left side! :seedling: Instagram

Carry Items Back

Remember you'll need to carry any purchases back to your starting point. :shopping_bags:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Bob Jones Trail for its accessibility, scenic beauty, and the unique charm of The Secret Garden. It's a highly recommended paved path for biking, walking, and running, leading to the enjoyable Avila Beach. Some note that parking can be challenging during peak times.

What People Like

Paved and accessible path
Scenic creek views
The Secret Garden stop

What People Dislike

Parking can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular trailhead is near the corner of Ontario Rd & Avila Beach Dr in Avila Beach, CA, offering free parking. For those starting in San Luis Obispo, taking Higuera to Ontario Rd is recommended to access the dedicated bike path. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is free parking available at the main trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is advised. Instagram

Yes, you can start from San Luis Obispo. The route often involves surface streets before connecting to the dedicated trail. Following Higuera to Ontario Rd is a suggested path. Reddit

The Bob Jones Trail is approximately 5 miles one-way, making it a 10-mile round trip if you go from the main trailhead to the end and back. Some sources indicate it's about 3 miles from the trailhead to Avila Pier. Instagram+1

While public transport can get you to Avila Beach, direct access to the trailhead via public transport might be limited. It's generally easier to drive or bike to the trailhead.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Bob Jones Trail is free to access and use. Parking at the main trailhead is also free. Instagram

The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. There are no specific official operating hours posted, but it's a public access path.

No, tickets are not required as the trail is free to access. You can simply show up and enjoy the path.

The trail is open to walking, running, and biking. Some sections might be more suitable for certain activities. Always be mindful of other users. Instagram

Dogs are generally allowed on the Bob Jones Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check local regulations for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The Bob Jones Trail is a paved pathway, making it smooth and accessible for walking, running, and biking. It follows the San Luis Obispo Creek. TikTokInstagram

Don't miss the 'Secret Garden,' a unique stop for refreshments. The trail also leads to the beautiful Avila Beach waterfront. TikTokInstagram+2

Absolutely! The paved, relatively flat terrain makes it an excellent choice for runners. Instagram

Yes, the Bob Jones Bike Trail is a popular route for cyclists, offering a scenic ride from the trailhead to Avila Beach. Instagram+2

The 'Secret Garden' offers refreshments. At the end of the trail in Avila Beach, you'll find various dining options, shops, and beach access. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The 'Secret Garden' is a popular stop for drinks and snacks. The trail also leads directly to Avila Beach, where numerous restaurants and cafes are available. Instagram+3

The Secret Garden offers drinks like beer, wine, and kombucha, along with cinnamon rolls and other light snacks. Instagram

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. It's a good idea to pack snacks and water, especially for longer excursions.

While there aren't designated picnic areas along the trail itself, the 'Secret Garden' has seating, and the end of the trail at Avila Beach offers plenty of spots to relax and enjoy food. Instagram

At Avila Beach, you'll find a variety of dining options, from casual seafood spots to cafes and restaurants, perfect for refueling after your trail adventure. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the lush greenery, the creek, the unique 'Secret Garden,' and the scenic Avila Beach waterfront. The trail offers diverse natural beauty. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, the trail is ideal for nature photography with its creek views, diverse plant life, and bird sounds. TikTok

Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour lighting. Mornings can also be lovely with soft light and fewer people. Instagram

Yes, the Secret Garden is a picturesque spot and a popular place for photos. TikTokInstagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in many public parks and trails. It's best to check local regulations for Avila Beach and San Luis Obispo County before flying a drone.

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