Note: this Mill Creek Trail is not to be confused with another trail by the same name at the northern edge of Big Sur. Hike Facts: • Length: 3.2 miles • Type: Out & Back • Difficulty: Moderate • Path: Varies, tricky • Elev. Gain: 600 feet • Parking Fee: No • Restrooms: No This …
One of the southernmost popular Big Sur trails, Salmon Creek offers a nice steady workout in addition to some of the most expansive views westward toward the coast. This is also a trail that you can hike as long as you like, turning back when you run out of steam, or stopping at either the …
Great mountain, ocean and creek views, along with a wide variety of tree and plant life. This trail has it all. After an initial set of switchbacks, the Cruickshank Trail is a fairly straight run along the canyon above Villa Creek, eventually winding down towards Villa Creek Camp and it’s gorgeous redwood setting near several …
Introduction Beginning in 1990, less than two dozen elephant seals began to call Piedras Blancas home, and now the seals are expanding to locations both north and south of the original beachhead. At first only the locals knew about the elephant seals, but now they’ve got their own parking lot, blue-jacketed docents, full-color signage, and …
The most scenic short coastal trail in our estimation, and one you won’t want to miss even if you only have time for a few stops along the highway. The Pacific Valley Bluff Trail is a simple flat path that crosses a large grass field to some breathtaking rocky cliffs high above the ocean. Hike …
An all-day workout or modest up and back that indulges the senses with vast ocean, mountain and canyon panoramas in addition to redwood, bay tree and oak forests. The Vicente Flat Trail starts with an aggressive uphill for a couple miles as you climb the coastal ridge and then turns east above Hare Canyon, eventually …
Big Sur Weather There isn’t a single month during the year when we haven’t had a great time in Big Sur. Which is not to say that every day has perfect hiking weather, but even December and January can have beautiful days with temperatures in the low 60s. The central California coastal area is described …
Black Bears Black bears are relative newcomers to the Big Sur area, and while still uncommon, are spotted occasionally. They are believed to be colonizing the area as a result of being pushed out of southern California. Many of the same common sense rules apply to bears that apply to mountain lions. Always be aware …