Every time my husband and I visit SLO, we run this trail every day. It's beautiful and safe. Lots of people walk, run, bike this path but it doesn't feel crowded. You can start either at Avila Beach or in SLO, we usually change it up for the variety. It's not a roundtrip, so you do have to turn around to get back to your car. We have never had a problem leaving our car in the SLO trail head parking lot because there are plenty of other people coming and going.

One of the best things about this trail is that it is well shaded for at least half of the distance. So you can head here for a walk on days that are super hot elsewhere. There is a place to stop for food midway and then places to visit once you arrive at Avila Beach. Most people are courteous but beware of people walking dogs on retractable leashes and kids learning how to ride a bike. I have almost been hit several times and once I was knocked down by a girl on a bike. This trail is for Multiple types of ambulation and transportation and that is both great and dangerous. This trail is not recommended for road bike riders in large groups, going 14mph+ as there is not sufficient space and too many others on the trail to make it safe. Weekdays are the best to enjoy the ambiance of the trail including wildlife, birds, plant life and signs along the way that describe various aspects of plant life etc.

We hike a lot so trails are our thing but this bike trail was a treat to experience. Great for walkers and bicycles. We also saw a lot of families enjoying the sunshine and their kiddos roller skating or riding their scooters.