The Rattlesnake Trail is a guided 8 mile roundtrip hike to Rattlesnake Canyon, and is an extension of the Pecho Coast Trail. Once hikers reach the lighthouse, the hike continues around Point San Luis and loops around Rattlesnake Canyon. This beautiful trail has unobstructed vistas of the central coast coastline, including Avila beach, and the coastal terraces on the south ranch of the Diablo Canyon Lands. The hike is led by docents who provide information on the local biology, geology and history of the Avila Beach area. The Pecho Coast Trail is open to 20 hikers on the first Monday of the month and by special request with an 8:45 a.m. departure and a return time of 1 p.m. Please arrive at the meeting spot by 8:30am to allow time for parking and check-in.
The trail head for the hike is at the Fisherman's Memorial located between the Port San Luis Harbor Parking Lot and Diablo Canyon Power Plant&rsquos entrance gates. The trail head is accessed via Avila Beach and parking is available at the Port San Luis Harbor parking lot, located at the base of the pier. Please do not park at gate displaying the Lighthouse tour banner Click Here for Driving Directions . Please allow extra travel time for traffic and parking conditions.
The Rattlesnake Trail is moderately strenuous with uneven terrain, steep cliffs and grades, narrow trails, and crumbling earth. Sturdy hiking shoes are required. Due to the uneven terrain, infants in carriers are not allowed and children must be at least 9 years old. Due to sensitive habitat, pets cannot be allowed on trails. As the trail is located on private property, visitors must stay with a docent guide at all times. There is no water on the trail, please be sure to bring your own for the hike. No smoking, or open flame, alcohol, tobacco, or firearms, are permitted on the property. Commercial photography is not permitted without prior authorization from PG&E. The trail may be closed at any time due to weather, Diablo Canyon Power Plant security or emergency plan operations. If you hear the emergency warning siren, return immediately to the trail head for further instructions.
Please have each person in your party read through the rules, waiver, and driving directions in advance of the hike.
