By hikinglite on March 09, 2008
I did this trail from south to north and back again. This is really a very diverse trail with the urban area thru Monterey in the south, the ocean views in the middle and then road views up north. Just south of Roberts Ave, take the turn up and over the dunes instead of going straight and then having to use the road to continure on the trail. North of the ocean views is a gap in the trail, but it is well signed on the road. Lots of hills and wind to give you a workout. The northern terminus is at Del Monte Blvd and Lapis Road on the north side of Marina. I would surely go out of my way to ride this trail again.
By Kate Nicholson on March 12, 2001
"This really is a great long-distance trail---with a few exceptions. If you're rollerblading, the section from the Naval Post-Graduate School down to the wharf can be kinda rough, as the asphalt isn't in the greatest condition. This is also the area where you start having to cross busy intersections and dodge tourists--avoid it like the plague on weekends. However, as of Feb. 2001, the section from Seaside Beach all the way to Marina has been repaved, is unbelievably smooth, and best of all, completely uncongested. (You do run into a number of formidable hills, though.) "
By Christopher E. Howse on January 08, 2001
"This trail is actually LONGER than what is posted on this site. The trail continues north from Seaside along Highway 1 through the former Fort Ord to Marina where it then follows the old Sothern Pacific Rail line along Delmonte Blvd. till its terminus north of Marina at Del Monte Blvd. and Higway 1. Adventurous bikers can follow a rural route that parallels Hwy 1 north towards a rec. trail in Castroville. I estimate the total additional trail to be about 10 miles from Seaside to its terminus north of Marina. There are great views of the coast along Monterey Bay and the trail keeps you well separated from the traffic of Hwy. 1.
This is an excellent trail for beginners and those who enjoy distance sports. Its condition and quality is excellent with the following editorial comments. It is a little on the narrow side, so those on foot need to keep an eye out for bikers as there isn't much room. It is very busy in Monterey, I would not recommend bicycling that portion if you want to go fast. Big downside, the Pacific Grove portion of the trail does not allow bicycles :( however, a road runs parallel with it."