There are hikes, and then there’s Big Sur hiking. It’s like nature turned the dial all the way up—massive cliffs, redwood forests, hidden waterfalls, and ocean views that make you forget about everything else (including, you know, work emails).
When I first hiked Big Sur, I thought I’d seen plenty of “pretty trails” in California. Nope. This place just hits different. One second you’re surrounded by towering redwoods, and the next, you’re standing on a bluff looking straight down at waves crashing on a rugged coastline. It’s wild, literally.
And the best part? There’s something for every mood. Want a quick, 1-mile walk to a waterfall? Done. Feeling like an 8-mile butt-kicker with 1,000 feet of elevation gain? Big Sur’s got you. The mix of easy and tough trails means you can plan a day trip or a full hiking weekend here without ever getting bored.
Why Big Sur Hiking is Different from Anywhere Else
Coastline Meets Redwoods – The Perfect Mix
Where else can you hike through dense redwood groves, then suddenly get smacked in the face with jaw-dropping ocean views? Big Sur’s hiking trails sit in this sweet spot between mountains and coast, so you get both worlds in a single hike.
There’s something unreal about walking under the shade of ancient redwoods (some of these giants are hundreds of years old) and then popping out onto a sunlit ridge with nothing but blue water for miles. It feels like two trips in one—forest hike meets beach escape.
What to Expect (Hint: It’s Not Just “Easy Walks”)
Big Sur hikes can surprise you. Sure, there are chill, flat trails like the walk to McWay Falls, but there are also switchback-heavy climbs like Mount Manuel Trail that will test your legs—and your patience—before rewarding you with views that make the burn totally worth it.
The trails here are a mix of state parks, national forests, and even some private land (with public access). That means the conditions vary. Some trails are perfectly maintained, while others feel like they haven’t seen a ranger in months. You’ll want good shoes and maybe even hiking poles if you’re going for one of the longer treks.
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Best Big Sur Hikes You Can’t Skip
I could list every single trail, but let’s be honest—you’d get bored, and I’d run out of coffee. So here’s a mix of classics and slightly lesser-known trails that are totally worth your time.
Pfeiffer Falls Trail – The Iconic Waterfall Spot
If you’re new to Big Sur hiking, this is the one to start with. Pfeiffer Falls Trail is just 1.4 miles roundtrip, but it packs in so much scenery it feels like a much bigger adventure. You’ll follow a path along a creek through the heart of a redwood grove until you hit a 60-foot waterfall that looks straight out of a movie.
The hike itself is easy, but you’ll still get that sense of “I’m in the wilderness” because of the towering trees and the way the sunlight filters down through the branches. It’s one of those trails where you can’t help but slow down just to take it all in.
Buzzard’s Roost Trail – The Underrated Ridge Hike
Want to get a little higher up (and I don’t mean spiritually)? Buzzard’s Roost is a 4.8-mile loop with a moderate climb that takes you from shady redwood forest up to a ridge with killer views of the Big Sur Valley and the coastline.
I love this trail because it feels like a workout but not a death march. You get that “I earned this view” feeling without completely wrecking your legs. Plus, it’s way less crowded than some of the other trails.
Valley View and Oak Grove Trails – Big Sur in Wide-Angle
These two trails can be linked together for a scenic, easy-to-moderate hike that gives you a little bit of everything—redwoods, open meadows, and panoramic valley views. The Valley View Trail is just 2 miles roundtrip, while Oak Grove is 3 miles.
If you want a hike where you can actually have a conversation without gasping for air, these are perfect. And if you time it for late afternoon? The light on the valley is stunnnig—golden and warm, like something out of a painting.
Mount Manuel Trail – For the Ones Who Like to Suffer (and Smile)
Let’s be real, this one’s a beast. It’s 8 miles roundtrip and climbs up to Manuel Peak at over 3,300 feet. It’s steep, exposed, and not for beginners. But if you’re the kind of hiker who craves a challenge and a “wow” view at the top, this is your trail.
On a clear day, you can see the Santa Lucia Mountains behind you and the Pacific stretching endlessly in front of you. Bring plenty of water, start early, and don’t underestimate how tough this climb is.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Trails
If you’ve ever seen that photo of a waterfall dropping straight onto a beach (you know, the one that’s all over Instagram), then you’ve already seen Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. This place is tiny compared to other Big Sur parks, but it’s packed with iconic hikes that are totally worth the stop.
McWay Falls Trail – The Insta-Famous Waterfall
This one’s more of a “walk” than a hike—0.64 miles roundtrip and flat as a pancake—but it’s iconic for a reason. McWay Falls drops 80 feet onto the sand (sometimes directly into the ocean, depending on the tide), and it’s one of those sights that makes you stop talking mid-sentence.
Here’s my advice: go early. By midday, the lookout point is swarming with people, all elbowing for that perfect shot. Sunrise or early morning? You might get the place almost to yourself.
Ewoldsen Trail – A Forest Loop with Coastal Payoff
Now this one’s a real hike. The Ewoldsen Trail is a 4.5-mile loop that starts in the middle of a lush redwood forest, then winds its way up to a ridge with some of the most sweeping ocean views you’ll see in Big Sur.
I won’t lie—this trail has some steep sections that’ll make you question your life choices. But the switchbacks are worth it. Plus, it’s shaded for a good chunk of the way, which makes the climb bearable. Bring snacks because you’ll want to linger at the top.
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Partington Cove – Short but Full of History
This trail is just 0.75 miles, but it’s got character. You drop down from Highway 1 through a tunnel (yes, an actual tunnel blasted through rock) and end up at a rocky cove that used to be a shipping point for lumber back in the 1800s.
I love this hike because it’s quick, easy, and feels like stepping back in time. Plus, the emerald water in the cove is unreal.
Tanbark and Tin House Trails – A Tough Climb, Big Reward
If you want a challenge, the Tanbark Trail is your jam. It’s 5.6 miles with a serious uphill section, but at the top, you get views of the Big Sur coast that stretch for miles. You’ll also pass the ruins of the old “Tin House,” which is basically a creepy, rusting relic from the 1940s.
This trail doesn’t get as much traffic as McWay Falls or Ewoldsen, which means you’ll have moments of pure, quiet solitude. It’s tough, but it’s the kind of hike that makes you feel like you conquered something.
Andrew Molera State Park Adventures
Andrew Molera is one of those parks that’s often overlooked because it’s less “famous” than Pfeiffer or Julia Pfeiffer Burns, but honestly, that’s part of its charm. It feels wilder, more open, and a little less manicured.
Creamery Meadow to Molera Beach – Easy Coastal Bliss
This trail is only 2 miles roundtrip, and it’s perfect if you want to start your day with a mellow, scenic walk. You pass through a meadow full of wildflowers (in spring, it’s ridiculous) and end up on a driftwood-covered beach that feels almost untouched.
Pro tip: bring a picnic. Sitting on the sand with the waves rolling in? Chef’s kiss.
Molera 8-Mile Loop – Coastal Cliffs and Bluffs
This one’s for people who want a longer, more adventurous hike. The loop combines the Ridge Trail, Panorama Trail, and Bluffs Trail to give you a greatest-hits tour of Andrew Molera State Park. It’s a mix of open ridges, cliffside views, and beach access.
It’s about 8 miles total, so bring water and give yourself a few hours. The views along the bluffs make it 100% worth the effort.
East Molera Trail – The Overlook You Didn’t Know You Needed
Starting just south of the park entrance, this 3.2-mile hike gives you sweeping views of the Big Sur Valley. The first section takes you through coastal oak forest, and then boom—you’re on an open hillside staring at some of the best views in the area.
This is another one that’s best early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the golden light.
Garrapata State Park Hikes
Garrapata is one of my favorite quick stops on Highway 1 because it’s easy to access and has both coastal bluff trails and canyon hikes.
Soberanes Canyon Trail – Redwoods + Ocean Views
This trail is like two hikes in one. The first part takes you through a shady canyon with redwoods, and then you climb up to the ridgeline for jaw-dropping ocean views. It’s about 2.2 miles out and back or 4.6 miles if you do the full loop.
Bluff Trail – A Stroll with Endless Views
Want something easy but stunningly scenic? The Bluff Trail is a 2-mile loop that hugs the coast, with constant views of the ocean and rugged cliffs. It’s also a great spot for whale watching if you’re here in winter.
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Limekiln State Park Trails
This park is a bit farther south, but don’t skip it. Limekiln State Park is where redwoods meet waterfalls meet history.
Waterfall and Kiln Loop – Old Ruins in the Woods
This short loop hike is like stepping into a time capsule. You hike past towering redwoods to reach an old set of lime kilns from the 1800s (hence the name), then continue on to a stunning waterfall. It’s only about 2 miles total but packed with variety.
Fern-Lined Paths to the Beach
Even if you’re not in the mood for a hike, just walking through the fern-covered trails here to the beach feels magical. It’s less crowded than some of the northern Big Sur spots, which makes it a great place to escape the crowds.
Big Sur Waterfall Hikes
If there’s one thing Big Sur knows how to do well (besides mind-blowing ocean views), it’s waterfalls. Some are famous, like McWay Falls, while others are tucked away in redwood canyons where you feel like you’ve stumbled into a hidden fairytale.
McWay Waterfall Trail (Again, Because It’s Worth It)
Yeah, I mentioned it before, but McWay Falls deserves its own spotlight. It’s one of those iconic California views you’ve probably seen a million times—but trust me, it’s a different experience standing there in person. The water drops 80 feet onto the sand, framed by rugged cliffs and turquoise waves that look unreal.
You can do the whole trail in under 20 minutes, but don’t just walk, snap, and leave. Take a few moments to just lean on the railing and listen to the waves. It’s a short hike, but it leaves a big impression.
Pfeiffer Falls – A Short but Sweet Walk
This is another great waterfall hike that doesn’t require a full-day trek. It’s an easy 1.4-mile roundtrip, but the payoff is a tall, misty waterfall tucked in the forest. Combine this with Valley View Trail if you want to add some killer ridge views to your hike.
Hidden Waterfalls – Lesser-Known Spots to Explore
If you’re willing to wander off the main tourist paths, there are smaller, unnamed waterfalls in Big Sur’s backcountry. Trails like Tanbark or those deeper in the Los Padres National Forest sometimes surprise you with small cascades, especially after heavy rain.
Hiking Tips for Big Sur CA Trails
Alright, let’s talk survival—because while hiking in Big Sur isn’t “hardcore wilderness,” it’s also not just a walk in the park.
What to Pack (Trust Me, Layers Save the Day)
The weather here is unpredictable. I’ve started a hike in sunny, T-shirt weather, only to end up wrapped in fog and freezing by the time I hit the ridge. Bring layers. Always. A light rain jacket or windbreaker is a must, even on sunny days.
And don’t forget water. Even on shorter trails, you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t bring at least a liter. Add snacks because let’s face it, everything tastes better with a view.
How to Avoid Trail Crowds
If you’ve been on Highway 1 during peak season, you know it can feel like everyone and their dog (literally) is out here. Start early—like, before 9 AM early. Not only do you get emptier trails, but the lighting for photos is way better.
Another trick? Hit less “famous” trails like Buzzard’s Roost or East Molera instead of just sticking to McWay Falls. They’re quieter and just as gorgeous.
Weather and Trail Conditions
Big Sur trails can close unexpectedly due to landslides, storms, or maintenance. Before you go, check the California State Parks website or the Big Sur Station for updates. Trust me, nothing’s worse than hyping yourself up for a hike only to hit a “Trail Closed” sign.
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Hiking with Dogs in Big Sur – Where They’re Welcome
If you’re planning to bring your dog, good news: some Big Sur hikes are dog-friendly. But you’ve got to know which ones.
Dog-Friendly Trails vs. State Parks Rules
Most state parks here have restrictions (sorry, Fido), but some trails, like parts of Andrew Molera State Park, allow dogs on leash. Pfeiffer Beach is also dog-friendly, which makes it a perfect combo for a coastal walk.
National Forest trails are usually more relaxed about dogs, but always double-check before you go.
Safety Tips for Hiking with Your Pup
Big Sur terrain isn’t all gentle meadows—there are cliffs, rocky sections, and even poison oak. Bring extra water for your dog, keep them leashed (even if they’re “super well-behaved,” you don’t want them chasing a squirrel off a ridge), and pack those paw wipes for after the hike.
Where to Grab Food After a Hike
Hiking burns calories, which is just a fancy way of saying “you’ve earned that burger or pastry.”
Big Sur Bakery and Smokehouse
Big Sur Bakery has legendary pastries, coffee, and wood-fired pizza. If you’re rolling out of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, it’s the perfect post-hike stop.
If you’re craving something more filling (like BBQ after a long trek), the Big Sur Smokehouse serves up smoked chicken and ribs that will make you want to nap in your car.
Nepenthe for Cliffside Lunches
Okay, it’s a little touristy, but eating at Nepenthe while staring out at the ocean? Worth it. The views from the deck are next-level, and their Ambrosia Burger is iconic. It’s the kind of place you’ll talk about long after your trip.
Planning Your Big Sur Hiking Day
You don’t want to just “wing it” when hiking in Big Sur.
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Map Out Your Stops (Don’t Rely on Cell Service)
Here’s the thing: Highway 1 is gorgeous but your cell service? It’s going to ghost you. Download offline maps (Google Maps or AllTrails) before you hit the road. Knowing where trailheads and parking lots are saves you from missing that dirt turnout for the hike you wanted to do.
Pair Hikes with Scenic Pullouts
The beauty of Big Sur is that even if you’re not hiking, the views from the road are breathtaking. Pair your hikes with stops like Bixby Creek Bridge, Hurricane Point, or Point Lobos. It breaks up the day and lets you soak in the full Big Sur vibe.
Final Thoughts on Hiking Big Sur California
Big Sur hiking isn’t just about checking trails off a list—it’s an experience. It’s those moments when you’re standing under redwoods so tall they make you feel tiny, or when you’re perched on a bluff with the Pacific stretching endlessly in front of you. It’s the mix of challenge and beauty that makes these hikes stick in your memory long after you’re back home.
If you’re planning your first trip, start with the classics—Pfeiffer Falls, McWay Falls, maybe Buzzard’s Roost—and then branch out to the bigger, wilder hikes like Tanbark or Mount Manuel. You’ll get a little bit of everything that makes Big Sur one of California’s best hiking destinations.
FAQs About Big Sur CA Hiking
1. What’s the easiest Big Sur hike?
McWay Falls Trail is super easy and perfect for beginners or anyone short on time.
2. Are there hikes with ocean views?
Pretty much all of them, but Bluff Trail at Garrapata and Ridge Trail at Andrew Molera have epic views.
3. Which hikes are best for kids?
Pfeiffer Falls, Creamery Meadow, and McWay Falls are all family-friendly.
4. Do I need permits for Big Sur trails?
Not for most day hikes, but overnight backpacking in Los Padres National Forest requires permits.
5. Can I hike Big Sur in winter?
Absolutely, but check for rain closures—mudslides and trail washouts can happen.
