Caspar Uplands Trail

The coast of California is full of bright beaches, with sights of the sparkling blue water and huge waves. It's not the first place you would think of when going hiking, but the Caspar Uplands Trail offers just that, with a unique area that mixes dense forests with the sounds and sights of the ocean. 

Made just for hiking and walking, the small 2-foot wide trail is made from compacted soil and gravel, and starts at Caspar Beach. The beach is on a small cove, with a curved beach with sounds of crashing waves and the harbor seals. Dogs are allowed on the beach, but you'll be too busy crossing the street to head onto the Caspar Uplands Trail, which immediately begins to climb the small ridge it runs along.

Once you're on the trail, you'll be covered in shade thanks to the dense canopy, with options to view natural vegetation like riparian, spruce, and fir trees. Bird watching is another favorite activity along this trail since the forest is home to woodpeckers, songbirds, and osprey. The quiet forest sounds are only dulled by the roaring waves of the sea to the west and accompany you throughout the entire hike.

At the halfway point of the trail, you'll come across your first landmark, an old unmarked cemetery. There are still plenty of marked and clean graves, giving you and Fido a chance to explore a little bit of history in the area. The cemetery sits on a small open field and provides each access back onto the trail once you're done. The trail continues into dense forests until it reaches its end along the eastern end of Point Cabrillo Drive. A small space next to the road is available for cars, but it's just as easy to turn back and head to your car back at Caspar Beach.

Easy parking areas, a clean trail, and even a bus stop next to the trail for those without transportation, its no wonder this little trail is so popular among the locals. After a hot day in the sun, this shaded area will be the perfect place for you and Fido to cool off and relax after a long day.