Fort Ord National Monument★5.0

How to Get There

From Monterey, CA (18 mi): Take CA-1 N to Lightfighter Dr, then turn right onto General Jim Moore Blvd and follow signs to Fort Ord National Monument trailheads.

Overview

Fort Ord is a former United States Army post on Monterey Bay of the Pacific Ocean coast in California, which closed in 1994 due to Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) action. Most of the fort's land now makes up the Fort Ord National Monument, managed by the United States Bureau of Land Management as part of the National Conservation Lands, while a small portion remains an active military installation under Army control designated as the Ord Military Community.

Before construction and official designation as a fort in 1940, the land was used as a maneuver area and field-artillery target range during 1917. Fort Ord was considered one of the most attractive locations of any U.S. Army post, because of its proximity to the beach and California weather. The 7th Infantry Division was its main garrison for many years. When Fort Ord was converted to civilian use, space was set aside for the first nature reserve in the United States created for conservation of an insect, the endangered Smith's blue butterfly. Additional endangered species are found on Fort Ord, including Contra Costa goldfields and the threatened California tiger salamander.

At the end of Gigling Road, where the DOD Building is located, is one of many entrances to the Fort Ord National Monument. There are more than 91 miles (146 km) of recreational trails available.

Fort Ord National Monument refers to that land on the former Fort Ord that is administered by the Bureau of Land Management and is open to the general public.

As of May 2018, Fort Ord National Monument has extended its trail system to add bypass and spur trails to popular areas.

Remaining military presence

A small portion of the former Fort Ord still remains under U.S. Army control, originally called the Presidio of Monterey (POM) Annex. It is now called the Ord Military Community.

Things to Do

Explore One of California's Largest Protected Open Spaces

Fort Ord National Monument encompasses more than 14,000 acres of protected public land along California's Central Coast near Monterey Bay. Established in 2012 on former military training lands, the monument preserves rolling grasslands, oak woodlands, chaparral-covered hills, rare plant communities, and an extensive trail network that attracts hikers, cyclists, equestrians, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Experience World-Class Mountain Biking

Fort Ord National Monument is widely recognized as one of the premier mountain biking destinations in California. The monument contains more than 80 miles of trails ranging from beginner-friendly routes to technical singletrack, providing opportunities for riders of all skill levels to explore the area's diverse landscapes.

Discover Unique Wildlife and Rare Habitats

The monument protects habitat for numerous species, including mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, red-tailed hawks, golden eagles, and the federally threatened California tiger salamander. Seasonal wildflowers and native grasslands create colorful displays and support a rich variety of wildlife throughout the year.

Enjoy Scenic Views of Monterey Bay and the Salinas Valley

Many of the monument's ridgelines and elevated trails offer sweeping views of Monterey Bay, the Salinas Valley, the Santa Lucia Mountains, and surrounding Central Coast landscapes. Clear days provide excellent opportunities for sightseeing and photography.

Learn About the Area's Military History

For much of the twentieth century, Fort Ord served as a major U.S. Army training facility. Today, visitors can learn about the area's military heritage while exploring lands that have been transformed into a nationally protected conservation and recreation area.

Enjoy Hiking, Horseback Riding, and Nature Photography

Fort Ord National Monument is popular for hiking, trail running, horseback riding, birdwatching, and landscape photography. The monument's extensive trail system allows visitors to experience quiet natural settings while exploring one of California's most successful land conservation projects.

Top Trails

Creekside Terrace Trail

Length: Approximately 4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

This popular trail traverses rolling hills, open grasslands, and scenic overlooks while providing opportunities to observe wildlife and seasonal wildflowers. It serves as an excellent introduction to the monument's natural landscapes.

Trail 68 and Trail 69 Loop

Length: Approximately 5 miles loop
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Difficulty: Moderate

A favorite among hikers and mountain bikers, this route combines flowing trail segments with panoramic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding hills and valleys.

Badger Hills Trail

Length: Approximately 6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Significant
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

This scenic trail climbs into higher elevations of the monument and rewards visitors with expansive views of Monterey Bay, Fort Ord's grasslands, and the surrounding Central Coast region.

Frog Pond Wetland Trail

Length: Approximately 2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy

This family-friendly trail passes near seasonal wetlands and habitat restoration areas, offering opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and learning about the monument's conservation efforts.

Sources: Bureau of Land Management official Fort Ord National Monument information, including details on hiking and biking trails, wildlife habitats, recreational opportunities, military history, and visitor resources. https://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/california/fort-ord-national-monumenthttps://www.blm.gov/programs/national-conservation-lands/california/fort-ord-national-monument
Additional information verified through Bureau of Land Management visitor resources and Monterey County outdoor recreation information covering trail systems, habitat conservation, wildlife viewing, mountain biking opportunities, and scenic viewpoints throughout Fort Ord National Monument. https://www.blm.gov/visit/fort-ord-national-monumenthttps://www.blm.gov/visit/fort-ord-national-monument

This article uses material from the Wikipedia article "Fort Ord", which is released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.