Big Sur is one of the last bastions of undeveloped coastline in California. Many twentieth-century poets have found refuge among its mist-covered cliffs—a tradition continued today by hikers who take pleasure in the dramatic landscapes of one of the best hiking areas in Northern California. Nothing surprising since this 70-mile stretch of seaboard features some of the most scenic trails in the United States. The unique combination of steep flower-strewn slopes, lush redwood forests, and surging Pacific waves makes Big Sur one of the world’s most fascinating junctures of land and sea—equally stimulating to venturesome outdoor enthusiasts and those who simply want a break from the hustle and bustle. Find out more about the best hikes in Big Sur from Liz Thomas, backpacker and guidebook author.
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The best thing about hiking in Big Sur is that there are incredible options for all skill levels. For beginner hikes, if you can walk for a few hours with little elevation gain, you are good to go! Intermediate hikes will see a little more change in elevation and hikes will start to increase in length, hiking anywhere between four to eight miles. Advanced hikes are full day treks with steep descents and challenging switchbacks. Your guides will determine the best trails for your group’s skill level. Keep in mind, the weather in summer can be very hot and you’ll also be packing a daypack filled with water and other things you’ll need throughout the day.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
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Group sizes and prices:
Hiking in Big Sur can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
There are no minimum age requirements for these adventures.
To get to Big Sur most people fly into San Jose International Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Big Sur, which is less than two hours away, or to Monterey, which is only an hour away.
The meeting location will be determined once the adventure is booked and you contact the guides. It is usually in central Big Sur or in the south Carmel area. There is also an option of a pickup in Monterey with an additional cost of $100 for a one-way drive for a maximum of 4 people.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Day Trips Cancellations
Fully refundable within the initial 48 hours from booking, unless the trip date is less than 7 days from the time of the booking.
Cancellations up to 7 days prior to the trip date are refundable 100%.
Cancellations within 7 days prior to the trip date are non-refundable.
