That's A-Morro!

Los Osos Hike to Swings and Morro Rock Overlook

Los Osos hike to swing Morro Rock overlook

Most swing sets are found in a playground, but this set of swings is found in a grove of large eucalyptus trees overlooking one of San Luis Obispo's iconic formations: Morro Rock, the northernmost of the ancient volcanoes dubbed Nine Sisters and the only one that emerges from the ocean. Head out for a 2.5-mile (round-trip) hike featuring the swings and continuing on to Broderson Peak Trail for a premier vantage of Morro Bay. The trail starts in Los Osos and travels through Baywood Ecological Reserve up towards Broderson Peak. Hike for about a quarter of a mile before reaching the tree swings tucked in the grove. The view from the swings looks out over the long sand-spit that separates Morro Bay from the Pacific and offers a fantastic vantage of Morro Rock rising from the sea. Continue along the sandy singletrack for about half a mile before turning right up the hill that takes you to Broderson Peak. Hike up through sand dunes and across a brief section of Monterey shale rock. Along the way you'll pass more eucalyptus groves and views of Black Hill, Cabrillo Peak, and Hollister Peak, all part of the Nine Sisters chain. At the top there are two benches: one looking out over Morro Rock and the other facing the ocean and the back side of Montaña de Oro State Park. Two cool!

TIP: Nearby Montaña de Oro State Park gets spectacular golden wildflowers in spring, but it's also the Pacific-hugging bluffs and utterly pristine coastline that make this place a standout. Find solitude, secluded sands, wild waves, and tranquil tide pools on the 4-mile (out-and-back) Bluff Trail.

From Hwy. 101, take Los Osos Valley Rd. west until it becomes Pecho Valley Rd. in Los Osos. Continue on Pecho Valley Rd. and take the second left, onto Rodman Dr. Drive up the hill and park at the end of the street. The trail begins after a “Dead End” sign and gate. The trail meets up with what is known as Broderson Peak Trail (coming up from Los Osos). The trail you'll take is unnamed; however, it is a clearly defined singletrack trail that is well maintained and easy to follow. Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Hike Artdoors

    Add a little color to your new year. This 3-mile loop through the Montalvo Arts Center mixes the beauty of the natural world with local artists’ creations.

    View
  2. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    The 2025 Hiking Calendar Is Here!

    Ready to make hiking part of your New Year’s wellness plan? Get the all-new 2025 Hiking Calendar courtesy of Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).

    View
  4. Most Peaceful Hike of All

    Is this the most peaceful one-hour hike in the Bay Area? It's got our vote! Lake Lagunitas is the smallest lake in a series of five found on the north side of Mount Tam, so it’s got that tiny but mighty charm. Do a 1.5-mile loop around the lake's shore-hugging trail.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Weekend Sherpa Podcast
    Sponsored

    Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  2. Animal Encounters

    Located where Redding’s famous Sundial Bridge overlooks the Sacramento River, Turtle Bay Exploration Park is 300 acres of gardens, a museum and playground, aquarium, and unforgettable up-close animal encounters!

    View
  3. Locals' Feature: Max Smith of Moment Skis

    Meet Max Smith, VP of Moment Skis in Reno, Nevada. Moment is the largest ski manufacturer in the US and you can see how their innovative and artistic skis are made by visiting Moment Skis headquarters in Reno. The Factory is where the magic happens, so drop in for a visit and say hi to the team, including employee dogs who are on quality control.

    View
  4. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View