Iconic trail reopens at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

UPDATE 05/24/17 6:14 p.m.: If you are looking for last minute plans for Memorial Day, the newly revamped Sea Lion Point Trail at Point Lobos might not be a bad idea.

“This is where people from all around the world come to experience the California Coast, to be able to say they did Highway 1,” said Dana Howard, with California Conservation Corps.

For the past four months, the 3/4-mile stretch was closed for renovation.

“Because of the storms and the weather over the years (the trail) had really eroded,” Howard said. “It had not become a trail flat, it became a ‘V’ trail. People really had to straddle to get out here.”

The trail was even more challenging for those in wheelchairs.

“At one time, I could do it by myself but I definitely needed assistance because of the potholes and the rough terrain,” said park docent Carrieanna Hess, who was in a wheelchair.

A team of 25 with the California Conservation Corps has been filling the sunken path with rocks, making the trail smooth and wheelchair accessible.

“It’s really rewarding to know that, you know, folks who wouldn’t be able to get out here otherwise can come out here, maybe see a whale and things like that,” Corps member Jesse Sherwood said.

Corps members layered the trail with granite. The path is now rock solid for the years to come.

PREVIOUS STORY: The Sea Lion Point Trail at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is back open in time for Memorial Day weekend. After a four month restoration, the 3/4-mile trail is now up to ADA standards.

The Sea Lion Point Trail suffered severe erosion but California Conservation Corps (CCC) members hauled beams, granite and equipment to the site to fix the problem. The trail now has a firmer surface, proper drainage and better access for people with limited mobility. The revamped trail is one of nearly a dozen coastal trails that now allow more visitors, including people in wheelchairs.

KIONS Linda Zhang will have more at 6 p.m.