On my most recent visit to see my folks, I found a trail in San Luis Obispo’s Los Osos Oaks State Reserve. It’s off a big open highway, and it’s easy to miss. There’s a small parking lot and from there you see a small opening amongst all of the many oak trees. For the first 10 minutes some noise from the highway was heard, but as I got deeper in, it faded and I mostly heard the birds. There are all kinds of lichen (moss) all over the trees and I’m a big fan of shaded hikes, so this was perfect. I loved the beauty and calm of this oak reserve. With so many amazing shapes of the trees and the dangling moss everywhere, I felt like I was in some story book wonderland. I came across a deer, a rabbit, a lot of hearty lizards and heard and saw all kind of different birds. It was very peaceful and secluded. This is a very easy “hike” as it’s pretty flat and shady. I totally recommend this place to anyone who is craving a beautiful place to wander into for a peaceful experience. One word of caution: there is poison oak everywhere-so stay on the path and wear long pants!
