Covers trails in Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties. Provides clear, concise directions to the trailhead; detailed 2-color route maps; trail milestones; and commentary.

This day hiking guide is the perfect companion for travelers along the well-known stretch of California coastline between San Francisco and Los Angeles. It includes how and where to access coastal beaches, tidepools, lighthouses, off-shore rock formations, and wildlife sites; panoramic overlooks along the adjacent mountain ranges; and urban strolls through several communities. Spectacular scenery and a range of hikes for every level of experience.

This guide takes you into the little-known wilds of three central coast counties: San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura. Each trip lists mileage, difficulty, elevation gain, and a "child rating," and has a route map.

* Guidebook to 55 dog-friendly hikes in California's Central Coast, Carmel Valley, Big Sur, and the Sierra Nevada* Tips on trail etiquette, trip preparations, finding appropriate routes for your dog, reducing environmental impacts, and more* Most up-to-date info on leash laws and regulationsCentral California has it all - gorgeous coastal parkland, mountainous wilderness areas, and everything in between. Hiking with your dog in Central California has never been easier for residents and visitors alike. This guide includes dog-friendly trails between Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo, stretching across the Central Valley eastward to Lee Vining and southward to Lone Pine. These trails are not only legal for canine hikers, but also welcoming and safe. Additionally, this guide presents information on hiking responsibly with your dog: what to do when you encounter other hikers, tips on minimizing negative impacts, and skills for preparing your dog for a hike in the varied terrainof Central California.

There is nothing more exhilarating than a walk in the forest. Hiking the trails is a daily ritual for many on the California Central Coast, and for Jill Thayer, each path is a new adventure that inspires and renews her appreciation of the natural environment. In Sojourns, Jill shares her favorite trails from Big Sur to Oceano Dunes and regions in between with resources on how to find them, and why they are her go-to places for balance, reflection, and a bit of exercise. A photographic essay captures the rich experiences from walks and hikes up and down rugged hills; across lush green meadows and fields of wildflowers; along winding forest paths of centuries-old oak, cypress, and eucalyptus trees; over chiseled sand dunes and windswept beaches; and atop dramatic cliffs that cascade down to the Pacific. Interspersed with favorite quotes that reveal the essence of the journey, the imagery takes you on a visual narrative of discovery through exquisite trails of the region, and beckons to the wanderlust of your imagination. Make time to immerse yourself in the healing power of nature. Sojourns seeks to inspire you to get out, connect with our natural environment, and embrace the conservation of our land and Pacific coastline. Take a deep breath and fill your senses with wonder and solace from a hurried world.

From hot springs hikes to journeys among the mighty Sequoias, there's something here for everyone! Routes range from short day hikes to overnight backpacking trips, with difficulty levels (moderate to challenging) clearly labeled. Book jacket.