Hiking and biking
 

Next week I'm doing the drive up the California Coast from L.A. to San Jose that I've always wanted to do (have to save San Francisco for another trip, unfortunately). Between seeing friends and relatives I would love to get plenty of hiking and/or biking in (on a day basis). <BR>Does anyone know of some nice trails in these areas: <BR>Ojai, Santa Maria, Carmel and Big Sur? <BR> <BR>I want to see Hearst Castle and have heard about the Ragged Point Inn. Has anyone ever stayed there? <BR>Finally, I'm flying into LAX and picking up the car the first night. Can anyone recommend an inexpensive ($80-$120 single)but decent hotel near the airport? <BR> <BR>Thanks, <BR>Terry <BR>

What kind of biking are you interested in? Mountain biking or street? <BR> <BR>The Central Coast has a lot of great places for outdoor activities such as this. One of my favorite parks is Montana De Oro. It's located basically between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay. Lots of trees and oceanfront access. Just keep an eye out for poison oak - the climate makes it a breeding ground for the plant.

Thank you for the response. I'll be doing regular street biking; not mountain biking. Montana de Oro sounds beautiful!

topper

My memory isn't working well for names today, but there are several nice state parks near Big Sur. One has an easy coastal walk through cypress to seal rocks. Another has trails inland up through redwoods, a little more serious, but not strenuous. I'm sure you can find them on the Cal State Park site.