Let's hike the Reservoir Canyon Trail - Summit Trail Loop

One of my favorites! We’ll start at the Reservoir Canyon Trail parking lot off US 101 just north of San Luis Obispo. First, we'll follow the Reservoir Canyon Trail up to a spectacular stone bench viewpoint atop Murray Hill. Next we'll walk along Ridge Trail to an old bell tower and descend Summit Trail to complete a 5.6-mile loop with 1,350 feet of elevation gain.

The first 1.25 miles of Reservoir Canyon Trail is pretty easy, gaining approximately 225 feet. We'll pass under overhanging oaks, sycamores, and smaller trees along the way. After that, the trail gets significantly steeper and more open with a 1,125 ft. elevation gain over the next 1.4 miles. This stretch is strenuous and the trail very rocky in places, so be sure to wear sturdy boots.

Along the way to the Murray Hill summit, we’ll encounter a large eucalyptus tree sporting a swing followed immediately by a weird collection of scrap metal sculptures including a sheet metal teepee complete with comfortable seating. We’ll take a snack break at the stone benches on top of Murray Hill and admire the 360 degree views.

From there we’ll hike about a mile west on the Ridge Trail enjoying more great views until we encounter a strange, stand-alone bell tower complete with bell. Plenty of stones lying about, so feel free to ring it. We’ll then take a right turn and descend back to the parking lot on the Summit Trail. This is a mostly rocky single track, switchback trail with steep drop offs so an easy pace is best.

To get to the trailhead: From downtown San Luis Obispo, take Highway 101 north for approximately two miles to Reservoir Canyon Road (an easy-to-miss road connecting to the freeway). Turn right and drive half a mile to the trailhead parking area at road’s end.

After the hike, exercise caution when getting back on the highway. If you are going south may be safer to drive north and turn around at the next left hand exit rather than try cutting across northbound traffic to reach the southbound lanes toward San Luis Obispo.

Again, that 1.4 mile climb segment up to Murray Hill is strenuous and always wears me out so be confident you can handle that as well as the 5.6 mile total distance.

Bring water, layers, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy boots and snacks.

Finally, be sure to read the disclaimer below.

Disclaimer
This Meetup Group, SLO County Hikers, its organizers, hosts, and members, take no responsibility for any injuries or accidents that may occur during events. By joining this event you take full responsibility for your own safety. Please ensure that you are in good health before participating and understand that there is risk involved in your participation. SLO County Hikers organizers and trip leaders are not trained and certified hiking or backpacking leaders and as such, SLO County Hikers does not certify the qualifications of any of its organizers or trip leaders, and they are not responsible for your safety. We are all just participants. By participating you acknowledge you have read this Disclaimer and agree to its terms.

Finally, if you bring guests to participate in the event you agree to take full responsibility for your guests and confirm that your guests understand and agree to all above terms and conditions.