The trail is well maintained but it does involve some undulations and isn't pancake smooth all the way, so solid hiking shoes are recommended. The trail traverses diverse terrain, including chaparral-covered hillsides, coastal sage scrub, and shady oak woodlands. In addition to the flora there's also plenty of fauna to be found, including snakes...be warned!

There's also significant cultural interest to be found on the trail, and you'll be able to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area through interpretive signs and exhibits. Crystal Cove State Park is home to a rich array of cultural resources, including Native American sites and remnants of early 20th-century homesteads, and the Pacific Ridge Trail passes some of these as it rolls through this fabulous park.