A Weekend Getaway in Nature: Hiking and Camping in Big Sur
Tucked along the rugged California coastline, Big Sur is a nature lover's paradise. With towering redwoods, crashing ocean waves, and panoramic mountain views, it's the perfect destination for a weekend escape. Grab your hiking boots and camping gear and join me on an adventurous weekend exploring the trails, beaches, and campgrounds of this breathtaking region.
Day 1: Hiking the Pine Ridge Trail
After the long drive along the winding Highway 1, pull off at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Lace up your boots and head out on the scenic Pine Ridge Trail, one of the most popular hikes in Big Sur. This 6-mile out-and-back trail leads through shady redwood groves and delivers stunning ocean vistas at the overlook.
Take your time wandering through the lush forest environment. The redwoods here are some of the tallest and oldest in the world, some reaching over 300 feet tall and 2,000 years old. Listen for the sound of birds calling amidst the peaceful solitude of the woods.
After about 3 miles, you’ll emerge onto a rocky cliff with jaw-dropping views of the pacific ocean waves crashing into the cliffs and beaches below. This is McWay Falls Overlook, one of the most iconic and photographed spots along the Big Sur coast. Sit and soak in the ocean scenery before heading back through the forest to complete the 6-mile roundtrip hike.
Replenish with a picnic lunch back at the trailhead before driving just 10 minutes down the road to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Here you can stretch your legs on the short 1.4 mile Pfeiffer Falls Trail. Walk under the shade of sycamores, redwoods, and oaks as you make your way upstream to the base of the 60-foot waterfall. Feel the refreshing mist on your skin before turning back.
End your first day of Big Sur hiking with an oceanside stroll at Andrew Molera State Park. Take the easy 0.75 mile trail out to the dramatic bluffs and scenic beaches of the park. Watch the sun begin to set over the waters, painting the sky in pink and orange hues.
Then cruise up to your campground to get settled in for the night. Many excellent camping options exist throughout Big Sur where you can pitch a tent and sleep under the stars. I recommend the spacious campsites at Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground or the more primitive and secluded Kirk Creek Campground. Fire up the camp stove to whip up a backcountry meal as you unwind after an exhilarating first day.
Day 2: Hiking Mt. Manuel Trail to Pfeiffer Beach
Wake up early to catch sunrise from your tent then fuel up with a hearty campfire breakfast. Today you’ll tackle the strenuous 8.2 mile Mt. Manuel Trail, an advanced hike to the 1,343-foot summit with spectacular coastal views throughout.
Start from the trailhead on the east side of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. You’ll immediately enter dense forests and start switchbacking uphill. Take breaks when needed as the steep grade can be challenging. After 2 miles, you’ll pop out at Buzzard’s Roost with a breathtaking vista looking west down the rocky coastline.
Press on through oak woodlands and chaparral, climbing higher up Mt. Manuel’s slopes. Watch your footing over uneven terrain as you make the final push to the top. At the summit, take time to soak in the panoramic vistas. On a clear day you can see the entire Big Sur coast stretching north and south below you.
After admiring the views, carefully descend back the way you came up. Near the bottom, veer onto the connecting trail that leads through oak forests out to Pfeiffer Beach. This secluded beach can only be reached by hiking and offers one of the most unique settings in Big Sur. Come at low tide to see the Keyhole Rock, a formation cut straight through by the ocean waves. Wander along the soft sands for a serene end to your Big Sur adventure.
Make the short drive back to your campsite for a well-deserved rest. Spend the afternoon lounging by the creek or reading in the shade of a tree. As the sun nears the horizon, drive south down to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park again to watch sunset from the overlook. The golden rays dancing over the water make for an unforgettable end to the day.
Head back to camp for dinner and relax around the flickering campfire under the stars. You’ll sleep soundly after two days of invigorating hiking through the best of Big Sur’s spectacular scenery. Let the crickets lull you into a deep sleep before packing up in the morning to make the drive back home already dreaming of your next getaway in nature.
Tips for Hiking & Camping in Big Sur:
- Prepare for any weather! Bring layers as well as sun protection since the weather is prone to quickly changing along the coast.
- Stay on marked trails as the cliff edges and terrain can be unstable and dangerous.
- Carry plenty of water since sources are limited on the trails.
- Watch for poison oak growing along the trails. Wear long pants and stay on the path to avoid contact.
- Research campfire restrictions since many areas prohibit fires even in campground fire pits during dry conditions.
- Store food securely at night to avoid encounters with curious raccoons and other wildlife. Consider a bear canister to protect supplies.
- Bring a tide chart to know the best hiking times to access certain coastal areas and beaches.
- Pack light! Many trails are strenuous with steep climbs so keep your pack as minimal as possible.
- Reserve campsites well in advance as Big Sur is extremely popular year-round.
- Avoid the crowds by visiting during shoulder season in the spring or fall. The summer brings more visitors.
- Fill up your gas tank when you see a station since services are limited along this remote coastline.
Make the Most of Your Big Sur Weekend Getaway
With towering forests, rugged coastlines, and endless trails, Big Sur delivers an unforgettable nature escape. Take your time exploring the scenic hiking routes, secluded beaches, and picturesque vistas that make this region so special. Pitch a tent at one of the campgrounds to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty as you drift off to sleep under the stars. After recharging in the tranquil wilderness, you'll return home renewed and re-energized, already planning your next adventure.
So pack your bags and hit the road for a weekend of hiking and camping in the wild landscapes of Big Sur, California!
