Garland Ranch Regional Park in Carmel Valley is a local's favorite hiking spot. Tucked away from a touristy Carmel by the Sea, it is only 15 minutes drive inland. If the fog covers the coastline, Galand Ranch is likely to be a sunny and welcoming hike.
The park has three distinct areas to explore: flat riverside loop, hillside trails, and the lookout tower at the summit. For an easy nature walk, the flat loop by the river is best. Most people don't venture up the steep trails; fewer still know that there is the lookout tower at the top.