Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park : TRAILS

BUZZARD'S ROOST **OPEN**
3 miles roundtrip
This moderate to strenuous loop hike follows the Big Sur River then climbs through shady redwoods to an exposed sunny ridge with a panoramic view of the ocean, Sycamore Canyon and the Santa Lucia Mountains. Starts across the river from the Redwood Deck.  Total elevation gain is about 750 feet.
 GOOGLE STREET VIEW

NATURE TRAIL **OPEN -*In order for crews to perform improvements to the trail, the Nature Trail will be closed intermittently on the following dates in 2024: March 23rd-26th; April 4th-9th; and April 18th-23rd.* 
.7 mile roundtrip
This easy self-guided trail offers an opportunity to learn about Big Sur's native plants. Starting across from Day use Lot #2, look for the printed nature guides at the trail head.
 GOOGLE STREET VIEW

RIVER PATH and WARDEN'S PATH **OPEN**
.6 mile loop
Wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, this loop trail also allows dogs. Following the bank of the Big Sur River, the trail passes through the Redwood Deck and includes a number of picnic areas.
 GOOGLE STREET VIEW

VALLEY VIEW **OPEN** and PFEIFFER FALLS TRAIL ** CLOSED **
2 miles roundtrip
Climb a moderate to strenuous 200 feet through a Redwood and Oak woodland to a fork in the trail. Take the left fork and climb another 300 feet to the Valley View Overlook where you will be rewarded with a tremendous view of the Big Sur River Valley, Pt. Sur and Andrew Molera State Park. Backtrack and take the right fork for a view of Pfeiffer Falls, a 60-foot waterfall.
 GOOGLE STREET VIEW  


BIG SUR RIVER GORGE **OPEN**
.5 mile round trip
This paved trail leads you to the Big Sur River Gorge, an undeveloped natural area. Adventurous hikers may continue on by wading in the river and climbing along boulders and logs. Use extreme caution as loose rocks, slippery surfaces and unstable soils create extremely hazardous conditions. Diving and jumping into the river is prohibited.
 GOOGLE STREET VIEW

MT. MANUEL TRAIL **OPEN**
8 miles roundtrip
Beginning in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, this trail enters U.S. Forest Service land after the first mile. A strenouous climb, it offers tremendous views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and distant ocean. Bring a hat and lots of water as it is sunny and exposed most of the way. 

PINE RIDGE TRAIL **OPEN**
23 miles one way
The trailhead is located at the Big Sur Station just south of the main entrance to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.  Primarily a Ventana Wilderness Trail, the first 2.5 miles skirt Pfeiffer Big Sur's campground and the Big Sur River Gorge.  The trail continues on U.S. Forest Service Land for an additional 20-plus miles ending at China Camp.  This trail is extremely popular on weekends and holidays when backpackers are drawn to Sykes Hot Springs, a strenous, 11-mile (6-7 hour) one-way hike. Dogs are allowed on this trail. For more information, please visit the Forest Service website (USFS).

OAK GROVE TRAIL ** CLOSED **

Mt Manuel trail

Photograph courtesy of Sharon Pieniak