Toro Park: Monterey County's Outdoor Haven

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Explore over 4,700 acres of outdoor adventures at Toro Park, with hiking, picnics, playgrounds, and stunning views of Monterey County.

Toro Park, a sprawling 4,756-acre parkland between Salinas and Monterey, offers a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in 1971, it features over 20 miles of trails with stunning views, picnic areas, playgrounds, and facilities for various sports, making it a popular destination for families and nature lovers alike.

A brief summary to Toro Park

501 Monterey-Salinas Highway 68, Salinas, California, 93908, US
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Monday 8 am-7 pm
Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
Thursday 8 am-7 pm
Friday 8 am-7 pm
Saturday 8 am-7 pm
Sunday 8 am-7 pm

Local tips

Bring layers, as the weather can change quickly, and exposed trails can get hot in the summer.
Pack a map, as some trails are not well-marked.
Reserve picnic shelters or BBQ areas in advance, especially for weekends or group events.
Be aware of wildlife, including mountain lions and coyotes.
Consider visiting during spring to see wildflowers in bloom.

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Getting There

Driving

Toro Park is located off Monterey-Salinas Highway 68. From Salinas, head west on Highway 68 for approximately 6 miles. From Monterey, drive east on Highway 68 for about 13 miles. Look for the park entrance on the right. Parking is available in the day-use lot. Parking fee is $8.
Public Transport

While direct public transport to Toro Park is limited, Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) provides bus service along Highway 68. Check the MST website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules to the nearest stop on Highway 68. From there, you may need to walk or take a taxi/rideshare to the park entrance. A short taxi/rideshare from a nearby MST stop would cost approximately $15-$25.

Discover more about Toro Park

Toro Park, nestled between Salinas and Monterey off Highway 68, is a sprawling outdoor destination offering something for everyone. Since opening in 1971, the park's 4,756 acres have drawn visitors seeking recreation and natural beauty. The park boasts over 20 miles of trails catering to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, with routes leading to panoramic vistas of the Salinas Valley and Monterey Bay. The popular "1800" trail climbs to 1,800 feet, rewarding adventurers with exceptional views. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, wild turkey, and even the occasional golden eagle. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Toro Park features over 200 individual picnic sites equipped with tables and grills, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Six large group picnic areas can accommodate gatherings from 50 to 500 people, while smaller groups can enjoy five miniature picnic areas. Several picnic areas offer full-service amenities, including BBQ pits. Families with children will appreciate the playgrounds and open turf areas. The park also provides facilities for volleyball, horseshoes, and softball. Toro Park also has a Youth Overnight Area (YONA) for organized groups. This reserved camping area includes a kitchen, BBQ, tables, electricity, water, restrooms, showers, and an amphitheater.