Irish Hills Hike, SLO

Irish Hills Hike starts in the cute neighborhood of Irish Hills, where the houses have sweet architecture and gardens full of flowers. This area is often foggy for longer than other parts of SLO, so you might find yourself hiking through fog and then above it. It also makes the area have slightly more dark green shrubs and less yellow grassland than other hikes.

The hike starts out with beautiful views of Cerro San Luis and Bishop Peak mountains and the part of town below that people call Siberia. Once you reach the top, you have ocean views, on Ocean View Trail! Then you descend into a tranquil valley with a feeling of "the hills are alive" from Sound of Music. Most of the loop hikes are very long but you can make your own out-and-back hikes that are shorter.
The trailhead has a large eucalyptus tree trunk on its side, which is impressive for photos since it's almost as tall as you! There are eucalyptus trees at the trailhead, but then the habitat turns more to oak and shrubs. The trail is a narrow, dirt path.
There are many different trails you can take, and the Ocean View Trail is a favorite. Bring your phone so you can use GPS and find your way around the different options.
Irish immigrants settled in this area in the 19th century, hence the name. When you get to Waddell Ranch in the valley on the other side, there is a wooden platform with a picnic table, and the remnants of a ranch house, including a stone wall and an old clawfoot bathtub!
This area was mined for chromium and mercury, and some mine shafts still exist, but you only want to see them from very far away.
Because of mud, this trail is often closed in winter. Check the trail status on the city of SLO website before you go.
If you want to extend your hike, there is a trail that connects with Johnson Ranch Hike.
While in the area, check out downtown San Luis Obispo and have a coffee. Or if you like the ocean better, check out Avila Beach and town.

Irish Hills Hike, SLO

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