Hiking Hearst

Only yards away from Highway 1, this southernmost ribbon of former Hearst Ranch shoreline seems miles removed from civilization.

Wildlife viewing areas highlight the stretch of coastline south of Piedras Blancas, where seals and birds coexist with their human visitors.

With carpets of invasive ice plant, an old motel and an eroding section of highway, the stretch north of Piedras Blancas will need some TLC from state parks.

For visitors looking to explore the new Hearst Ranch coastline, the northernmost stretch is a treasure trove of ocean vistas, grassy bluffs and tide pools teeming with life.