Madonna Mountain

Some like to call it Madonna Mountain because it is actually on the Madonna Property. This may be confusing because so many people hike and bike the mountain, and that is because the Madonna family is kind enough to allow free access to their beautiful mountain! So yes, I like calling it Madonna Mountain, and thank you Madonnas for being so generous with your private property. I don’t know many people who would open their backyard to just anyone!

Madonna Mountain — what a wonderful hiking location. Beginner-​intermediate routes to the top. Trail all the way around the mountain has nice views. Madonna trails sit partially on land owned by the Madonna family, next to the Madonna Inn, on Madonna Road. So Everyone calls it Madonna. There are a couple of fanatics that hate the Madonna’s so they run around telling everyone to shut up and stop calling it Madonna. Oh well… most people call it Madonna anyways.

There is no «Madonna Mountain» in San Luis Obispo, CA. The mountain in question is «San Luis Mountain» or if you like, «Cerro San Luis Obispo.» The large «M» on the side of the mountain was placed by students of the former (M)ission Central Catholic High School.
It’s downright sad that someone would lie and suggest that those that know the actual name of this mountain (San Luis Mountain/​Cerro San Luis Obispo) refuse to call it «Madonna Mountain» because they «hate the Madonna’s» (sic.) They refuse to call it «Madonna Mountain» because that’s not its actual name. Anyone who wasn’t ignorant about the City of San Luis Obispo would be more than aware of this.
The mountain itself is great and it’s a fun hike but it’s tiresome to hear visitors, transplants, the clueless and the uncouth incorrectly refer to it as «Madonna Mountain» or even «Mission Mountain.»
Finally, the Madonna Family only owns the summit (above the «M») of the mountain and an access road to it. The majority of the mountain is owned by the taxpayers of the City of San Luis Obispo.

You can park at Madonna Inn parking lot. The trail is very versatile– bikers, runners, and hikers are combing the mountain. Take plenty of water, wear hiking shoes, and pack some snacks.

I’m not a real big hiker but this was a really good hike trail. The trail is good if your a beginner or intermediate. It is about 2 miles. Bring good hiking shoes and a walking stick. There are different trails you can take. You cant get lost. This trail is good if you ride mountain bikes. Also bring water bottles, snacks, sunglasses, and a hat.