Big Sur isn't like other places. For 90 miles along California's central coast, the Santa Lucia Mountains rise directly from the Pacific Ocean, creating a landscape of sheer cliffs, hidden coves, and ancient redwood canyons. It's one of the most scenic stretches of coastline on Earth—and it's threaded with trails that let you experience it on foot.
Hiking here ranges from short walks to coastal overlooks to strenuous climbs up 5,000-foot peaks. You can wander through redwood groves, descend to secluded beaches, or stand on ridgelines where the mountains meet the sea. Whatever you choose, the scenery is unforgettable.
Understanding Big Sur
Geography
Big Sur stretches roughly from Carmel in the north to San Simeon in the south. Highway 1 winds along the coast, providing access to trailheads. The Ventana Wilderness sprawls inland, protecting nearly 250,000 acres of rugged backcountry.
Weather
Coastal fog is common, especially in summer. Mornings often start gray before burning off by afternoon. The best weather is typically September-November. Winter brings rain—sometimes heavy—which can cause road closures and trail damage.
Access Notes
Highway 1 is prone to closures from slides and storms. Check conditions before driving. Cell service is limited throughout Big Sur.
Best Easy Hikes
McWay Falls Overlook
- Distance: 0.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Location: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
The iconic Big Sur shot: an 80-foot waterfall dropping onto a pristine beach cove with turquoise water. A short, paved trail leads to the overlook. Note: You cannot access the beach below.
Partington Cove
- Distance: 1.0 mile round trip
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
A short but steep trail descends through a tunnel carved in rock to reach a rocky cove where lumber was once loaded onto ships. Historical intrigue meets ocean drama.
Pfeiffer Falls
- Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Location: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
A pleasant forest walk to a 60-foot waterfall in a redwood canyon. Best in winter/spring when water flows strongest. The trail continues to Valley View for coastal panoramas.
Moderate Hikes
Ewoldsen Trail
- Distance: 4.3 miles loop
- Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Location: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
One of Big Sur's best hikes, climbing from redwood forest through tan oak and chaparral to spectacular coastal views. The loop returns through McWay Canyon. Combines forest, views, and waterfalls in one package.
Buzzards Roost Trail
- Distance: 4.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Location: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Climb from the Big Sur River through mixed forest to a rocky outcrop with views up and down the coast. Excellent sunrise or sunset hike if you're camping in the park.
Andrew Molera Beach
- Distance: 2.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
- Location: Andrew Molera State Park
Cross the Big Sur River (seasonal bridge or ford) and walk through meadows to a mile-long beach. Combine with the Bluffs Trail for views, or the River Trail for a longer loop.
Challenging Hikes
Cone Peak
- Distance: 5.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
At 5,155 feet, Cone Peak is one of the steepest coastal mountains in the contiguous US—rising nearly a mile above the ocean in just 3 miles. The summit views are extraordinary: ocean below, mountains everywhere, and on clear days, 100+ mile visibility.
Access is via Nacimiento-Fergusson Road. The trail is exposed; bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Vicente Flat
- Distance: 10.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
A backcountry classic starting from Kirk Creek, traversing coastal slopes with ocean views before dropping into a beautiful oak-shaded flat. Popular overnight destination with reliable water in Vicente Creek.
Ventana Double Cone
- Distance: 18+ miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 4,000+ feet
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
The high point of the Ventana Wilderness at 4,853 feet. A serious undertaking through remote wilderness, usually done as an overnight. Rewards with one of the most isolated summit experiences on the California coast.
Practical Information
Park Fees
State parks charge day-use fees ($10-$15 per vehicle). A California State Parks pass is good value if visiting multiple parks.
Camping
- Pfeiffer Big Sur: The main campground with forest sites; books months ahead in summer
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns: Environmental camps only
- Andrew Molera: Walk-in sites in a beautiful meadow
- Ventana Wilderness: Backcountry camping with permit
When to Visit
- April-June: Wildflowers, waterfalls flowing, before summer crowds
- September-November: Best weather, clearest skies, warmer water
- Winter: Dramatic storms, waterfalls at peak, but rain can close trails
- Summer: Fog common; busy but still beautiful
What to Bring
Layers (coastal weather changes fast), sun protection for exposed trails, plenty of water (scarce on many trails), and binoculars for wildlife watching.
Quick Reference: Big Sur Hikes
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| McWay Falls | 0.6 mi | Easy | Iconic view |
| Ewoldsen Trail | 4.3 mi | Moderate | Variety |
| Cone Peak | 5.0 mi | Strenuous | Epic views |
| Pfeiffer Falls | 1.6 mi | Easy | Redwoods |
Big Sur is one of those rare places where the hiking lives up to the scenery—and the scenery is among the most dramatic on Earth. Whether you're after a quick waterfall view or a multi-day wilderness adventure, these trails deliver experiences you won't find anywhere else.
