Paso Robles is situated in the heart of wine country. Oak-studded hillsides, chaparral, verdant landscapes: for the visitor and resident, the area is replete for an outdoorsman’s fancy.
Here are the top 10 things to do outdoors in Paso Robles:
1 Soak in sulfur Hot Springs
If Paso Robles’ burbling sulfuric hot springs are enough for Polish-born piano legend Ignacy Jan Paderewski, it’s likely they’re up-to-par for your ailing needs. Paso Robles is home to many historic hot springs sites like Franklin Hot Springs – a more rustic, outdoorsy take. Paso Robles Inn, River Oaks Hot Springs and others offer the same sulfuric waters in a more decorous experience.
2 Stroll in downtown City Park
Many people say downtown Paso Robles is a lot like Sonoma’s downtown square – only 30 years ago. What that means is far less crowds, less pomp and plenty of space to roam amongst the towering trees and tranquil setting anchored by the historic Carnegie Library. Stroll downtown shops, wine tasting rooms, restaurants, bars, shops and more.
3 Pedal through the vineyards
Winding country roads await your next biking adventures in Paso Robles. Think Napa Valley with 75% less car traffic, nice tarmac conditions and a friendly atmosphere that’s far more likely to stop and help with a roadside flat tire. Paso Robles is home to world-class cycling roads: experience them today!
4 Go electric
Electric bikes are a power-assisted method to venture through the vines. Capitalize on this popular trend by renting and electric bike and meandering through rural country roads. You’ll be surprised just how efficient and fun they can be, with minimal effort and saving ample energy for wine tasting and other adventures through town.
5 Tromp the upland
Hunting groundsare within prime reach of Paso Robles. White-tail deer, quail, dove, pigs and other game animals are common fare in the region. Research your maps to find adjacent hunting grounds in the nearby area: they may also offer a glimpse of raw California land when hunting season is not in effect. Think solitude and untrodden trails.
6 Explore the vineyards
Grounds on vineyards are a wonderful place for that Instagram-worthy view. Rolling vistas, gardens, farm animals, historic farm equipment and lush California native gardens await your wandering fancy. Take the time to explore a few expansive wineries, take a stroll and see what awaits: it just might surprise you.
7 Revel the lights
Sensorio’s Field of Lights is an illumination masterpiece to behold. Named among New York Times’ “Top Places to go in 2020,” Bruce Munro’s now-permanent display is a top tourist attraction in Paso Robles. See the more than 17,000 multi-hued light display sabered amongst the oak woodlands just off Highway 46 East. While you’re there, be sure to check out The Wineries of Highway 46 East like Tobin James Cellars, Eberle Winery and others. Visitors can walk firsthand through the display. Take multiple rounds walking through the lights and remember, Instagrammers: smartphone photos only. Be sure to pair the experience with a rendition of Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon” on your iPods while you’re at it. Thought syncing to “Wizard of Oz” was cool? Pair up to Sensorio – and we’ll see you on the dark side of the moon.
8 Unveil the upland
Wildlands await you: for a price. Ranches in Paso Robles offer a full gamut of hunting experiences that allows you to get outside and take part in the region’s pioneering spirit. Wild hogs, white-tail deer – even buffalo, await you at places like Camp 5 Outfitters, Bitterwater Outfitters, Cavalleto Outdoor Adventures, Oak Stone Outfitters, Avila Wild Hunts and a plethora of others. Quintessential upland terrain dots the Paso Robles landscape on public lands: Bureau of Land Management, National Forest Service, as well as military. Be sure to check local maps and regulations for details on when and where to tromp.
9 Explore northward to Ft. Hunter Liggett
Flanked by the Los Padres National Forest, Fort Hunter-Liggett is a heaven for the outdoors enthusiast. Come spring, wildflowers bloom in full splendor. In fall, hunting grounds reign supreme amongst the vast, highly-traversable woodlands and chaparral. A special place with special restrictions and guidelines, be sure to check online before heading out to the base. Semi-permanent closures may be in effect. During wintertime, roads may be adversely impacted by flooding per the numerous river crossings. While you’re there, be sure to check out Mission San Antonio de Padua, located on 86 acres on the former Milpitas unit of the Hearst Ranch.
10 Explore city parks
Parks in the City of Paso Robles offer a variety of experiences from pond fishing to casual walking. At Barney Schwartz Park, a seasonal pond beckons the flyfishing angler’s delicate carp fly offerings, where sports fields abound for everything from football to soccer. Be sure to check out www.prcity.com for more information on where you can recreate in Paso Robles parks.
