The Morros

The Morros are a series of volcanic mountains and hills that dot the landscape from Morro Rock to Islay Hill. They’re composed of dacite, which is similar to granite but not as durable, and popular with climbers and hikers alike — except for the ones designated private property. From west to east, the named Morros are:

• Morro Rock: Designated a state preserve. Tourists are allowed to walk around its base where land exists, but hiking and climbing the rock is illegal.
• Black Hill: The shortest Morro, a parking lot half way up the west side makes the summit an easy 5-minute walk. Other trails connect to Morro Bay State Park.
• Cerro Cabrillo: Also part of Morro Bay State Park, this peak is a difficult climb past the infamous Tiki Head Rock. In this case, “difficult” includes “climbing up rocks with hands and feet.”
• Hollister: This peak is part of Cerro Alto ranch, privately owned by the local Buckingham family. In 2018 the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo (LCSLO) and Buckinghams entered an agreement to preserve the land in its natural state.
• Cerro Romaldo: Used as a training ground for the California National Guard
• Chumash Peak: Named in honor of the area’s indigenous people and not open to the public.
• Bishop Peak: Tallest and most rugged of the Morros, also one of our popular hikes.
• Cerro San Luis (Mt. Madonna): A favorite hiking and mountain biking destination overlooking downtown SLO.
• Islay Hill: A convenient and easy hike closer to the airport than downtown.