Manzanita Park
17100 Castroville Blvd., Prunedale
(831) 663-0859, www.co.monterey.ca.us/parks/manzanita.html
If you’re looking for a place to sweat and climb some steep terrain, Manzanita Park is a good bet. It’s also a biodiverse relic of native scrub oak vegetation in North County, where most of the surrounding area has become farmland. That habitat preservation makes the trails feel wild and rugged but the workout is tempered by some standout views of the glittering Monterey Bay, and the hilly topography. The good news for runners who want to get outdoors without getting lost deep in the woods: The main loop is just shy of 3 miles. There are side trails to explore, and dogs are allowed. Park outside the main gate to avoid getting your car locked inside, as it’s likely to be shut as soon as a kids’ soccer game is over.