Salmon Creek Trail to Spruce & Estrella Camps

Feel free to hike Salmon Creek Trail at your own pace – you can choose to turn back at any point, or at the Spruce (2 miles in) or Estrella (3.25 miles in) sites. The trail leads to open vistas of the coast, giving stunning views of the cliffs and ocean.

Around 2 miles in, follow the fork to the left to arrive at Spruce point. If you chose to continue on, head to Estrella Camp. This last stretch is highly recommended – the trail climbs higher and higher, offering glimpses of rocky pools and waterfalls, and eventually ending at a small meadow with a campsite.

Another advantage of Salmon Creek is the option to end (or begin) your hike with a swim at the bottom of Salmon Creek Falls (over 100 feet). At the bottom of the trail, follow signs to the left, instead of towards Salmon Creek Trail. The beautiful waterfall and pools are a great place to take relax and have a picnic.

Campgrounds are on a first come-first served basis. For more updates visit the Forest Service website. 

Driving Directions: The trailhead is located at a pull-off of Highway 1, about 2.5 hours south of Monterey, or north of San Luis Obispo.