The best city hikes and walks in Fort Ord National Monument
4.8
(121)
1,298
hikers
37
hikes
Urban hiking trails in Fort Ord National Monument offer a diverse landscape characterized by coastal paths, rolling hills, and varied ecosystems. The region features extensive grasslands, oak woodlands, and chaparral, providing a mix of open spaces and shaded areas. Trails often follow streamside corridors and traverse ancient dune formations, contributing to unique plant and wildlife communities.
Best urban hiking trails in Fort Ord National Monument
- The most popular urban hiking route is Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, a 7.6…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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.
Sign up for free
5.0
(3)
27
hikers
7.02km
01:48
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
34.7km
08:56
170m
170m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
4.27km
01:06
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
A lovely wharf you should see
0
0
Nice flat run on footpath to aquarium.
0
0
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!
0
0
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."
3
0
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.
3
0
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.
3
0
Nice, small (and free!) museum just before Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey. Nice exhibition.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Fort Ord National Monument?
Fort Ord National Monument offers a wide selection of urban hiking trails. You'll find over 30 routes, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging paths, perfect for exploring the area's unique blend of natural beauty and historical sites.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on urban hikes in Fort Ord National Monument?
Urban hikes in Fort Ord National Monument traverse diverse landscapes. You can expect to see rolling hills, expansive grasslands, and pockets of oak woodlands. Some trails also feature maritime chaparral and streamside corridors, offering a varied and engaging experience.
Are there easy urban walks suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are many easy urban walks perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Monterey Beach – Fishermans Wharf loop from Monterey is an easy option, offering pleasant views and a manageable distance. Many of the 25 easy routes available are suitable for a relaxed outing.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest along the urban trails?
While exploring the urban trails, you might encounter remnants of the monument's past as a U.S. Army base, such as an old military watchtower near Parker Flats. Many trails also offer spectacular panoramic views of the Salinas Valley and Monterey Bay, providing natural landmarks to enjoy.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Fort Ord National Monument?
The komoot community highly rates urban hiking in Fort Ord National Monument, with an average score of 4.79 stars from over 120 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse scenery, the historical elements, and the rewarding views of the Pacific Ocean and Salinas Valley.
Are there any long-distance urban hiking options?
For those seeking a longer urban hiking experience, the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail offers a challenging route stretching over 34 kilometers. This trail provides an extensive journey through the area's coastal urban landscapes.
Can I find urban loop trails in Fort Ord National Monument?
Yes, several urban loop trails are available. An example is the Monterey Canning Company – View of Monterey Harbor loop from Monterey State Beach, which allows you to start and end your hike in the same location while enjoying scenic views.
What kind of wildlife might I see on an urban hike?
Despite being urban-adjacent, Fort Ord National Monument is rich in wildlife. You might spot black-tailed deer, rabbits, and various bird species like California quail and red-tailed hawks. Keep an eye out for vibrant wildflower displays, especially from late winter through fall. For more detailed information on local wildlife and plants, you can visit the BLM website.
Where are the main trailheads for urban hikes in Fort Ord National Monument?
Key trailheads for accessing the monument's extensive network, including urban-accessible routes, are Creekside Terrace and Badger Hills. These locations often provide amenities such as restrooms, maps, and interpretive displays to help you start your adventure.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Fort Ord National Monument?
Fort Ord National Monument offers pleasant hiking conditions year-round, but spring and fall are particularly popular. Spring brings vibrant wildflower blooms, while fall offers cooler temperatures. The mild coastal climate generally makes it suitable for urban hikes in any season.
Are there any coastal urban trails?
Absolutely. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is a prime example, offering a moderate urban hike along the beautiful coastline with stunning views of Monterey Bay.
Most popular routes in Fort Ord National Monument
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
