MDO Hike: Point Buchon Trail to Lookout Point (3.0 Miles Total)

Join us for a stroll on the picturesque Point Buchon Trail at Montaña de Oro State Park. We will hike to Lookout Point (aka "Stonehenge") and back, which is about half way to the end.

I like this section of trail best because it hugs the coast the whole way. After Lookout Point (aka “Stonehenge”—you’ll see why it’s called that if you’ve never done this walk) the trail turns inland and goes uphill a bit, and I want to avoid that in the heat of the day.

Point Buchon is famously beautiful with lots of interesting rock outcroppings offshore. It’s a popular spot for whale watching. I almost always see spouts here, so fingers crossed! We will take our time and stop often for pictures.

There is no shade whatsoever on this trail, so if you get overheated easily like I do, bring plenty of cold water, sun protection, and maybe even a cooling neck gaiter or wet hand towel to cool yourself down. Hopefully we'll have a cool ocean breeze the whole time.

The Point Buchon Trail is managed by PG&E, so each of us will need to sign in at the booth before starting the hike. PG&E issues only 275 permits a day for this trail, but they almost never reach capacity unless there is a wildflower superbloom or it’s a holiday weekend. In the unlikely event they have reached capacity by the time we get there, we will hike the Bluffs Trail instead (around 3.5 miles of easy walking on a wide gravel/dirt trail). The Bluffs Trail is also accessible from the Coon Creek Parking Lot.

When: 2:30 (we will start walking promptly at 2:35)
Parking: Park in Coon Creek Parking Lot at the end of the accessible portion of Pecho Valley Rd (click on the map for exact location)
Distance: 3.0 miles total (from parking lot)
Elevation Gain: Around 250 feet (mostly flat with a few small hills)
Terrain: Wide dirt trail
Dogs: No dogs allowed on trail
Bathrooms: There is a vault toilet in the parking lot and portapotties at the trailhead
Trail Info: Point Buchon Trail
What to Bring:

• Sturdy sneakers or hiking boots with good tread
• Hat and sunscreen
• Water
• Light jacket/layers
• Camera
• Hiking poles (optional)

Disclaimer:
Participation on this walk or hike with SLO Women Hikers is voluntary and at your own risk. The organizer of this group takes no responsibility for injuries or accidents that may occur during events.

By participating in this group, you acknowledge that walking and hiking outdoors can be hazardous activities and that you are aware of the risks involved, including but not limited to:

• Injuries from falls, slips, or trips
• Inclement weather conditions
• Wildlife encounters
• Poison oak and insect bites
• Fatigue and exhaustion

You are responsible for your own well-being and safety during all events. It is your responsibility to:

• Know your abilities and limits before participating
• Assess the difficulty level of each hike and decide if it's suitable for you
• Bring necessary gear, food, and water
• Stay informed about weather conditions and trail status
• Follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by the organizer or other authorities

Waiver of Liability:
By participating in this group, you and any guests you bring agree to waive any and all claims of liability against the organizer, other participants, and any affiliated entities for any injuries, accidents, or damages that may occur during events.