Devil’s Slide Trail – An Easy Hike With Coastal Views

The Devil’s Slide Trail is a 1.3 mile long paved, carless, multi-use trail, which was an earlier segment of Highway 1. This section is named the “Devil’s Slide” for multiple notorious landslides that historically wiped out the highway. Highway 1 traffic has now been re-routed through tunnels, and this open section has been re-built and maintained for recreational use.

The Devil’s Slide Trail is also part of the California Coastal Trail which stretches the entire coast of California. Traversing from Oregon to Mexico, the Costal trail connects travelers to California’s vivid oceanside landscapes.

What to Expect On Devils Slide Trail

• 1.3 miles of paved mixed-use trail for bikers and walkers
• Coastal Pacific Ocean Views on top of the bluffs
• Parking lot with free parking and no park admission fee
• Dogs are allowed as long as they’re kept on a leash

This trail is an extremely family-friendly, paved with well-marked signs, has educational placards, benches for breaks, and restrooms. Devil’s Slide is an out and back trail at 2.5 miles round trip. The trail is located on top of the costal bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The views are amazing, especially during sunset.

The trail is wide enough for hiking, running, and leisurely walkers to all co-exist. I particularly love to ride my bike down this stretch uninterrupted while seeing the waves of the Pacific Ocean crashing. On a clear day, you can see the Farallon Islands and Point Reyes from the trail.

For a break along the trail, there are three observation platforms outfitted with benches and viewfinders that allow visitors a view of the Pacific Ocean. During the migration season, you can often spot bottle-nose dolphins, whales, and sea lions. Harbor seals are a regular sight, howling out on nearby San Pedro Rock.

Devil’s Slide Trail Parking

Parking lots are available on both the north and south end of the trail. I’d recommend finding parking on the southern lot since there are more potential spaces. There are two lots on the south end, one to the left and one to the right where you turn in.

The parking spots are well marked, and usually have a steady flow of visitors arriving and leaving. The Devil’s Slide trail parking lot opens daily at 8:00 a.m. and closes at different times depending upon the season and when the sunsets.

Alternatively, you can take an Uber to Devil’s Slide Trail. This is typically a 30-minute ride if you are coming in from San Francisco. Driving down the Pacific Coast Highway to Devil’s Slide Trail offers a similar experience to driving down the California coastline without the lengthy drive.

Nearby Attractions

Montara State Beach

Montara State Beach is 2 miles south on Highway 1 from Devils Slide Trail. This small secluded beach by the bluffs is perfect for a peaceful beach experience. Bring a blanket for a picnic or drop by for a break during your trip down Highway 1.

Devil’s Slide Bunker

From the south end parking lot, you can visit the Devil’s Slide Bunker. This is an old WWII bunker that sits on top of the bluffs. Now covered by graffiti, it was once a lookout for invading forces coming from the Pacific Ocean.

Taco Bell By The Sea

North of Devil’s Slide Trail on Route 1, is Taco Bell By The Sea. Possibly the best Taco Bell. Not only does this Taco Bell have ocean views and a beachside walk-up order window, but it also is one of the few Taco Bell that also serves alcohol.

Tips and Things To Know

There are restrooms by the southern parking lot as well as water fountains and bike racks. The trail is also dog friendly as long as they are on a leash. Devil’s Slide can also be a stopping point on a long road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway.