Springtime’s best traveling speed is SLO

Credit one Central Coast community for developing nature preserves instead of subdivisions. I’m talking about San Luis Obispo, which locals refer to as SLO Town, an appropriate name considering the area’s mellow pace.

Slow is an apt speed in nearby Reservoir Canyon Natural Reserve too. Hikers should take their time enjoying old oak and pungent bay laurel shading a sprightly creek that dances from one rock garden to the next. This time of year, the canyon’s grassy meadows should be carpeted with purple lupine and dotted with California poppies.

To get there from San Luis Obispo, follow U.S. 101 north past Grand Avenue, the city’s last highway exit. Look carefully for “right turn ahead” signs. Pass the first turn, Fox Hollow Road. Exit at the second, Reservoir Canyon Road.

Drive four-tenths of a mile to a small parking area on the left. Opposite the parking area is what looks like an official trail head and sign. Skip them. The sign is for a short loop trail leading down to small falls and a grotto. You want Reservoir Canyon Trail instead, up the paved road to a cattle guard. Continue southeast up Reservoir Canyon on a footpath, and a sign welcomes you to Reservoir Canyon Natural Reserve.

The trail meanders by trees and wildflowers.

You’ll cross Reservoir Creek on two stretches of wooden boardwalk and, half a mile from your starting point, reach a right-branching side trail that leads to a lovely three-fingered cascade and small pools.

Return to the main trail and hike a third of a mile farther to a handsome footbridge.

Thank the Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Society of Civil Engineers for this job well done, cross the bridge and go deeper into the canyon.

Meadows to the north practically demand that you unpack a picnic here.

About 1 1/4 miles from the trail head, the path crosses Reservoir Creek and remnants of a wood bridge.

The trail crosses the creek again and fades near the boundary of the reserve.

Turn around and return the same way you came.

As you drive back toward U.S. 101 on Reservoir Canyon Road, remember that traffic is heavy and fast.

Rather than attempt a left turn onto southbound 101, go north on the freeway to a safe exit, then double back.