In SLO CAL (the San Luis Obispo region), running season never really ends. Whether chasing ocean views along the coast, climbing mountain trails or logging easy miles on a beachside path, runners will find a route that fits their style and pace. 

Planning a running getaway should be exciting, not overwhelming. This guide is a one-stop resource for exploring SLO CAL on foot, covering some of the region's iconic running routes along with a few local favorites that fly under the radar. 

Beyond the miles, this guide highlights great places to refuel after a run, whether craving a hearty recovery meal, a light and healthy bite or the perfect spot to carb-load before race day or a Sunday long run. It also introduces the local running clubs that make SLO CAL such a welcoming destination for runners, showcasing the region's small-town charm. From weekly group runs and community meetups to a supportive local running culture, this guide offers an insider's look at what makes the region special. 

Looking for a next race? SLO CAL offers events for every type of athlete throughout the year, whether it's a half marathon, marathon, triathlon, Spartan race, trail race or fun run. Runners might even find the perfect race to anchor a next training block, or the perfect reason to plan a return trip. 

From scenic routes and post-run fuel stops to local race-day inspiration, this guide has everything needed to start a next running adventure in SLO CAL. 

Running Trails in SLO CAL

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Group of hikers walks a coastal trail at sunset with ocean views and grassy dunes in Montana de Oro.

What's a runner's guide without a list of trails taking you around the county — whether you want a paved path, some trail running or to go off path and explore the local roads of SLO County? 

  • Bob Jones Trail (Avila): A paved 6 mile (9.7 km) round trip through trees, past a pond, by 2 cafes and out to the Avila Pier. Good pick for your next long run  
  • Morro Bay Rock to Cayucos Pier (Morro Bay/Cayucos): A sandy, 6 mile (9.7 km) path right on the beach from Morro Bay Rock to the Cayucos Pier, with an ocean view the whole way 
  • Poly Canyon Trail (City of San Luis Obispo): A 2.5 mile (4 km) dirt trail on Cal Poly's campus through the architectural graveyard, showcasing architecture students’ built structures. 
  • Dinosaur Caves Park to Pirates Cove (Pismo Beach/Avila): Start at Dinosaur Caves Park, run through the streets of Shell Beach, then join a paved oceanfront path to Pirates Cove in Avila Beach 
  • Montaña de Oro Bluff Trail (Los Osos): A 3.4 mile (5.5 km) round trip dirt path in Montaña de Oro State Park along cliffs, breaking waves and rock structures 
  • Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Bluff Trail (Cambria): A 2 mile (3.2 km) run on boardwalks and gravel paths through the town of Cambria 
  • Salinas River Walk (Paso Robles): A partially paved 2 mile (3.2 km) trail along the Salinas River, good for a shakeout run before the Wicked Wine Run 
  • Atascadero Lake Park Loop (Atascadero): A 1.3 mile (2.1 km) loop along Atascadero Lake, perfect for an all-out mile run 
  • High Ridge Trail Loop (Arroyo Grande): This 5-mile (8 km) loop trail, east of Lopez Lake, features plenty of hills, making it a great route for building endurance before a hilly race. 

Local Running Clubs & Groups

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Bob Jones Trail
Highway 1 Discovery Route

The only thing better than running alone in SLO CAL is running with others. Check out these SLO CAL running clubs and experience the welcoming, tight-knit community that makes this area so special. 

  • San Luis Distance Club: An established distance club that hosts all-age track workouts and sponsors county-wide races 
  • RunSLOClub: Started in 2024, designed for runners of all speeds and experience levels, holding regular group runs on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings 
  • Templeton Run Club: A North County running club that meets multiple mornings and evenings each week for track workouts, trail outings and neighborhood runs 
  • SLO Mountain Runners: This running club is primarily dedicated to trail running around SLO CAL 
  • SLO Trail Runners: Local runners who share a passion for unpaved and challenging runs around SLO CAL 

Races & Events

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Two men and one woman running through field during golden hour at the Spartan Race
Spartan Race

A runner's guide isn't complete without some races to build your training block around. 

  • City to Sea Run (City of San Luis Obispo/Avila): This half marathon starts in downtown San Luis Obispo and ends in Avila Beach, taking you through the iconic spots of the San Luis Obispo area 
  • SLO CAL Spartan Trifecta Race (Santa Margarita): This race is a high-endurance obstacle course race taking participants through rugged off-road terrain while conquering physical challenges like mud crawls, rope climbs, spear throws and heavy carries 
  • Morro Bay Tri (Morro Bay): This triathlon is regarded for being beginner friendly, offering a friendly atmosphere and a no-swim alternative for the swim portion, including a kayak or stand-up paddleboard option 
  • Big Sur International Marathon: This bucket-list, moderately difficult marathon takes you through the scenic and iconic roads of Highway 1, with a 2 mile (3.2 km) continuous climb 
  • Wicked Wine Run (Paso Robles): This fun run combines wine tasting with participants' choice of running, walking or jogging, plus food trucks, live music and of course wine! 
  • Brian Waterbury Memorial Rock to Pier Run & Rock'n Around the Pier Half Marathon (Morro Bay): An annual out-and-back half marathon taking runners along the Morro Bay coastline 

Running Gear

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Whether you're looking for gear to guide your training block, getting laced up with your first pair of perfect running shoes or grabbing something last minute for one of your SLO CAL races, these local shops have got you covered. 

  • The Mountain Air (City of San Luis Obispo): Located in downtown San Luis Obispo, they have knowledgeable and helpful staff carrying quality running shoes and gear 
  • Running Warehouse (City of San Luis Obispo): This store is for elite and advanced runners looking for an array of running shoes, accessories and apparel 
  • K-Man Cyclery (Atascadero and Paso): A hub for runners and triathletes carrying triathlon equipment and running shoes 
  • Shell Beach Surf Shop (Shell Beach): While this store is primarily focused on surfing, if you're looking for an accessory like a running hat or sunglasses, this could be a great substitute for a running store 

Post-Run Fuel

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pizza fresh out of the oven

Carbo-loading before the big race? Looking for something light before a long run? Or looking to indulge in a diner breakfast after your big race? These local SLO CAL eats will guide you in the right direction. 

  • VirtJuice: A smoothie, juice and acai bowl bar located in Arroyo Grande known for being 100% organic and locally sourced
  • Shine Café: A bright, airy vegan and vegetarian café using local, organic ingredients 
  • Honeymoon Café: Perfect healthy breakfast located in downtown Pismo Beach with a wide variety of options 
  • Lil' Bits Café: A hidden-gem diner with hefty breakfast portions — perfect post-run fuel 
  • Café Della Via: Serves Italian classics with a sizeable wine list — perfect for your pre-race pasta carb load 
  • My Friend Mike's Pizza: Underground pizza joint, but hurry before they sell out for the day and get your large pie right before your race 

What to Know When Running in SLO CAL

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Three people hiking on a trail towards the oceano

Microclimates change by the mile. Morro Bay tends to hold onto its clouds a little longer, San Luis Obispo usually burns off the fog and settles into sunshine and Pismo Beach is somewhere right in-between the two.. Head further up the coast to Cambria and expect the coolest air in the region, while Paso Robles and Atascadero run hot and sunny most of the year—so plan the time of day accordingly. 

For runners who like their sidewalks smooth and their crosswalks predictable, downtown San Luis Obispo and Avila are pedestrian-friendly spots to log easy miles. 

Road shoes or trail shoes? Depends on the route. Save the trail shoes for looser terrain like Poly Canyon or the bluff trails, and stick with road shoes for paved paths like Bob Jones or the Salinas River Walk .

Don't let the clouds fool you. Sunscreen is a must even on overcast days, since coastal fog doesn't do much to block the sun's UV rays. 

Keep an eye out and stay on the trails. Poison Oak has been known to be spotted on Poly Canyon, Pismo Preserve and the Fiscalini bluffs. 

Parking options differ between trails. Pismo Preserve charges a small fee, while Bob Jones Trail keeps it simple with free lots.

From coastal bluffs to rugged trails, from training partners to post-run pizza, this runner's guide has everything you need to make the most of every mile in SLO CAL. Whether you're exploring the best running trails in SLO CAL, training for your next race, or planning a running getaway, you'll find plenty of ways to hit your stride. So, pick a trail, mark a race on your calendar, and lace up. The region is ready for you.