Poly Canyon Architecture Graveyard | San Luis Obispo

While there are an astounding number of things to do in the coastal central California town of San Luis Obispo, there are a few hidden gems that are well-kept secrets to those who don’t live there. One of those best kept secrets is the Architecture Graveyard stowed away in the Poly Canyon.

A popular hike for many students who attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, this hike can be enjoyed by people of all ages – old and young. This is an easy 3-mile round trip hike with 300 feet of elevation gain that takes you through the Poly Canyon Design Village , which features an eclectic collection of 15 architecture and engineering projects crafted by students at Cal Poly.

The architecture department openly invites the curious to come check out this other-worldly village for themselves. Into a forest and along a stream, this idyllic hike begins with a whimsical stone arch which serves as the start of the decaying monuments. A hillside of other-worldly treasures awaits shortly after.

This family friendly hike is perfect for kids who will be captivated with the structures that are designed to be climbed on, explored, and admired amid the rolling hills. From a futuristic bridge-boat on the side of a mountain to a Fallingwater-esque Shell House and a climbable Poly Pavilion are just a few of the projects that you will encounter along the trail. The projects range from unusual to futuristic to flat out funny. The trail winds around the different projects allowing for ample time to take in each site before continuing onto the next. Aside from the projects which may make you feel like you’re at a Burning Man Festival, there are also stunning vistas of the surrounding California mountains.

Some describe the Architecture Graveyard structures as creepy – boarded up houses with graffiti designs – while others describe them as truly phenomenal works of art. A few vandals have opened a few of the boarded up house-like structures offering those who dare a glimpse inside the creepy dwellings.

The trail starts at the Cal Poly campus(you will even catch a glimpse some of the luxurious Poly Canyon dorms as you begin the hike) and is about ¾ mile of mostly dirt-paved road and then follows the Brizziolari Creek up the Canyon.

Tip 1: Hiking boots are not necessary for this trail and may get in the way of climbing and exploring the different structures. Casual walking or training shoes will suffice and may even be a better option.

Tip 2: Bikes are allowed on this trail and you can continue on the dirt trails up into Poly Canyon for a mountain biking adventure.

Tip 3: Don’t forget your camera! You can capture some amazing images here.

Tip 4: There are no trash cans or bathrooms along the trail. Keep this in mind if you are packing a picnic lunch.

Tip 5: If you’re visiting on a weekday you will need to stop by the Cal Poly parking office at the main entrance on Grant Avenue for a parking permit. If you’re visiting on a weekend parking is free, no permit required.

Difficulty : Easy

Total Distance : 3 miles

Trailhead Address : Poly Canyon Road, San Luis Obispo, California 93405

Close to impossible to describe with words and pictures; only to be truly understood if experienced in-person. Architecture Graveyard: New bucket list item anyone?