Palo Corona Regional Park, Regional park in Carmel Valley, US

Palo Corona Regional Park is a large protected area that stretches from the coast to the mountains, containing diverse habitats and landscapes. The property features forested valleys, grassy slopes, and ridges that rise steeply from the valley floor.

The property was purchased in 2002 by conservation organizations to prevent building development and protect natural ecosystems. This action saved large areas of forest and grassland from development projects.

The park serves the local community as a place to connect with nature through walking trails that pass through forests and open hillsides. Visitors come to experience the landscape's varied character without encountering commercial development.

Visitors can access the park through several entry points, though some require advance permission before arrival. It helps to check access options in advance and wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain.

The park's front parcel opened to the public covers only 681 of its 4,350 acres, and access is capped at 21 permits a day: 13 at the Highway 1 entrance and eight from the South Bank Trail south of the Carmel River. Applications must be filed at least two weekdays ahead.