Juan Bautista de Anza

The de Anza trail is named after a Spanish explorer, Juan Bautista de Anza, a third generation frontier soldier of New Spain, who led a large group of emigrants from Sonora Mexico to Northern California in 1776. The trail helped open California’s rich valleys to European influences. Many of the state’s mission settlements were successful due largely to de Anza’s efforts. At one point during his lengthy journey, de Anza made camp along the Salinas River near what is now present-day Atascadero.

In 1990, Congress acknowledged the significance of the Anza expeditions by establishing the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. This historic trail passes through Atascadero in close proximity to the Salinas River. In May of 1998, the Atascadero Mutual Water Company and the City of Atascadero opened segments of the trail for public use.

The Atascadero Mutual Water Company trail offers a flat five mile trek. The number of shady spots provided by giant oaks that surround this trail makes it a great spot to walk when temperatures soar. To follow a route similar to that taken by the famous Spanish explorer start at 4545 Sycamore Rd. (Atascadero Water Company’s pumping station & maintenance yard). The trail begins on an access road for the water company, which does not provide a great deal of scenery; however, in less than one mile you will find yourself on an established trail where the native plants and animals will surround you with a variety of unique shapes, smells and sounds. The entire round trip loop is approximately 5.8 miles in length. Trail markers are easy to find and should keep most hikers on the trail for the entire length of the journey.

The City’s section of the trail begins at 7785 Aragon and parallels the Salinas river south, looping back past the City’s water treatment plant. The entire length of the trail is approximately 1.2 miles.

The de Anza trails are open to walkers, bikers and horseback riders only. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. For more information on the Juan Bautista de Anza trail please contact the City of Atascadero Community Services Dept. (805) 461-5000.