Discover the Majestic Beauty of Big Sur River Gorge
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene trails of Big Sur River Gorge, a must-see destination on California's stunning coastline.
Nestled in the heart of California's rugged coastline, Big Sur River Gorge offers tourists breathtaking views, serene hiking trails, and the tranquil sounds of nature. This stunning natural attraction is a must-visit for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike.
A brief summary to Big Sur River Gorge
- Big Sur, California, 93920, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, especially during sunrise or sunset.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails can be rugged and uneven.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, but remember to leave no trace.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as the area can be prone to sudden changes.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Big Sur River Inn, exit the inn and head south on CA-1 N (Pacific Coast Highway). Walk along the shoulder of the road for about 0.5 miles until you reach the entrance to the Big Sur River Gorge. Look for signs indicating the trailhead. Once you arrive at the trailhead, follow the marked trail leading down to the gorge.
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Walking
If you are starting from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, exit the park and walk north on CA-1 N for approximately 1 mile. You will pass several scenic viewpoints; take your time to enjoy the views! Continue until you see signs for Big Sur River Gorge. Take the marked trail leading into the gorge area.
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Biking
If you are using a bicycle, start from the Big Sur Village area. Head south on CA-1 S (Pacific Coast Highway) and ride along the bike lane. It’s approximately a 2-mile ride to the Big Sur River Gorge entrance. Be cautious of traffic and enjoy the coastal scenery as you pedal. Once you reach the gorge, lock your bike at the designated bike rack and follow the trail down to the water.
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Hiking
For a more adventurous route, if you are near the Ventana Wilderness area, you can hike towards Big Sur River Gorge. Start your hike at the trailhead for the Ventana Wilderness and follow the trails down to the river. This route is rugged and offers beautiful views but ensure you have proper hiking gear and maps. Follow the signs towards Big Sur River Gorge for the best path.
Discover more about Big Sur River Gorge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sign | Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
1.1 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a must-visit destination on California's stunning coastline.
Post Ranch Inn
2.0 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Post Ranch Inn, the ultimate retreat in Big Sur, California.
Fernwood Campground and Resort
2.5 km
Discover the beauty of Big Sur at Fernwood Campground and Resort, where nature meets comfort and adventure awaits around every corner.
COAST Big Sur
6.5 km
Experience the unique blend of art, dining, and boutique shopping at COAST Big Sur, where creativity meets the stunning California coastline.
Point Sur Naval Facility
12.3 km
Discover the historical significance and breathtaking beauty of Point Sur Naval Facility along California's iconic Big Sur coastline.
52801 CA-1
13.0 km
Explore the stunning coastline of Big Sur, California, where majestic cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean and nature unfolds in breathtaking beauty.
Point Sur Lighthouse
13.5 km
Discover the historic Point Sur Lighthouse, offering breathtaking ocean views and a glimpse into California's maritime heritage along the stunning Big Sur coastline.
Hurricane Point
17.1 km
Explore the stunning cliffs and breathtaking vistas at Hurricane Point, a must-visit coastal gem in California's seaside paradise.
Hot Springs Creek Bridge
18.0 km
Explore the scenic beauty and historical significance of Hot Springs Creek Bridge in Big Sur, a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
Bixby Creek Bridge
18.1 km
Discover Bixby Creek Bridge, an architectural masterpiece that offers stunning coastal views and a glimpse into California's scenic beauty.
Kasler Point
22.4 km
Explore Kasler Point, a historical landmark in Monterey, CA, with breathtaking ocean views and a rich tapestry of maritime history.
D L James “Seaward” House
32.1 km
Discover the D L James 'Seaward' House, a historic landmark in Carmel-By-The-Sea, showcasing stunning views and rich architectural heritage.
Historic Lime Kilns
34.2 km
Uncover the rich history and stunning beauty of Big Sur at the Historic Lime Kilns, a remarkable landmark of California's past.
Butterfly House
35.7 km
Explore the Butterfly House in Carmel-By-The-Sea: a historical landmark showcasing stunning architecture and nature's beauty in California.
Mission Trail Park
35.9 km
Explore the natural beauty of Mission Trail Park in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a serene retreat for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Big Sur River
1.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur River in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a natural paradise offering adventure and serenity in California.
Big Sur Station
1.1 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Big Sur from Big Sur Station, your essential visitor center for local insights and unforgettable adventures.
Pfeiffer Falls
1.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pfeiffer Falls in Big Sur, a natural wonder surrounded by lush redwoods and vibrant wildlife.
Redwood Deck
1.4 km
Discover the serenity of Redwood Deck in Big Sur, where towering redwoods and stunning views create an unforgettable hiking experience.
Henry Miller Memorial Library
3.4 km
Discover the artistic spirit of Big Sur at the Henry Miller Memorial Library, a unique cultural haven dedicated to literature and creativity.
Pfeiffer Beach
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pfeiffer Beach, a hidden coastal treasure in California's Big Sur region, known for its unique purple sand and stunning landscapes.
Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach
4.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach, a stunning natural wonder in Big Sur, California, where ocean meets artistry.
Grimes Point
5.6 km
Discover the stunning rock formations and ancient petroglyphs of Grimes Point, a natural wonder in California's beautiful peninsula region.
Seal Beach Overlook
6.4 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas at Seal Beach Overlook, a scenic spot in Big Sur where the cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Andrew Molera State Park
8.0 km
Experience the breathtaking coastal beauty and diverse ecosystems of Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur, California, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
The California Sea Otter State Game Refuge
9.8 km
Explore the California Sea Otter State Game Refuge, a breathtaking sanctuary for sea otters and a haven for nature lovers on the stunning Big Sur coast.
Partington Cove
10.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Partington Cove in Big Sur, California—where stunning vistas meet the tranquility of nature along the Pacific coastline.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point
11.6 km
Experience the stunning coastal beauty and iconic McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point, a must-see destination in Big Sur, California.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
12.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, featuring iconic waterfalls, towering redwoods, and stunning coastal views.
Point Sur State Historic Park
13.0 km
Experience the stunning coastal views and rich history at Point Sur State Historic Park, a must-visit destination in Monterey, California.
Essential places to dine
Big Sur Bakery
1.4 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Big Sur Bakery—your perfect pitstop along California's scenic coast.
Homestead
1.5 km
Experience comfort food at Homestead in Big Sur—where delicious American cuisine meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Sierra Mar
2.1 km
Experience fine dining at Sierra Mar in Big Sur—where exquisite seafood meets breathtaking ocean views for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Big Sur Smokehouse
2.2 km
Discover delicious barbecue at Big Sur Smokehouse – where smoky flavors meet stunning coastal views in beautiful Big Sur.
The Sur House
2.5 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and organic cuisine at The Sur House in Big Sur - a perfect blend of nature and fine dining.
Fernwood Tavern
2.5 km
Experience delectable grilled dishes at Fernwood Tavern in Big Sur while surrounded by California's stunning natural beauty.
Nepenthe
3.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite American cuisine at Nepenthe in Big Sur - a true culinary gem overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Cafe Kevah
3.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and fresh local flavors at Cafe Kevah in Big Sur – an unforgettable culinary gem along California's coastline.
Big Sur Roadhouse
3.3 km
Experience the best of Californian cuisine at Big Sur Roadhouse, where local flavors meet stunning coastal views in an inviting atmosphere.
Cottages Grocery Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience exquisite coastal dining at Cottages Grocery Restaurant in Big Sur with fresh ingredients and breathtaking views.
Sushi Jawn
3.8 km
Discover the taste of freshness at Sushi Jawn—a mobile sushi haven in Big Sur where quality meets convenience.
Deetjen's Restaurant
3.8 km
Discover Deetjen's Restaurant in Big Sur for a unique American dining experience amidst breathtaking coastal views.
The Village, Big Sur
4.2 km
Experience wellness and tranquility at The Village in Big Sur - where healthy dining meets serene surroundings.
Restaurant at Big Sur River Inn
4.3 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at the Restaurant at Big Sur River Inn.
Big Sur River Inn
4.3 km
Discover tranquility at Big Sur River Inn - where rustic charm meets breathtaking nature along California's iconic coast.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Big Sur Deli
1.3 km
Discover the flavors of Big Sur at Big Sur Deli, where delicious deli bites meet the captivating beauty of California's coastline.
Mother Botanical & Shop
1.4 km
Explore Mother Botanical & Shop in Big Sur, a hidden gem offering unique gifts, beautiful plants, and a warm local atmosphere.
Post Ranch Mercantile
1.9 km
Discover the charm of Big Sur at Post Ranch Mercantile, where local artistry meets stunning coastal views in a delightful gift shop experience.
Fernwood General Store
2.5 km
Discover the charm of Big Sur at Fernwood General Store, your one-stop shop for local goods, fresh produce, and unforgettable souvenirs.
Phoenix Shop
3.1 km
Explore the enchanting Phoenix Shop in Big Sur - your destination for unique gifts, local art, and memorable souvenirs.
Big Sur Goods
3.4 km
Explore the artistic treasures of Big Sur Goods, a haven for photography and local art in the stunning landscape of Big Sur, California.
David's Coastal Collections
3.4 km
Explore the charm of Big Sur at David's Coastal Collections, where local artistry meets coastal beauty in a delightful shopping experience.
Studio One - Big Sur
4.2 km
Discover the enchanting Studio One - Big Sur, an art gallery that beautifully reflects the local culture and stunning landscapes of California's coastline.
Big Sur River Inn General Store
4.3 km
Discover the essence of Big Sur at the Big Sur River Inn General Store, your one-stop shop for essentials and local treasures amidst stunning natural beauty.
Big Sur inspirations
4.4 km
Explore Big Sur Inspirations for unique gifts and local artistry that capture the essence of California's stunning coastline.
kiyote of big sur
17.8 km
Discover unique clothing and gifts inspired by the breathtaking landscapes of Big Sur at Kiyote, a hidden gem along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Givingtree Benefit Shop at Community Church of the Monterey Peninsula
34.5 km
Discover unique treasures at the Givingtree Benefit Shop, where every purchase supports local charities in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
The Hearth Shop
34.5 km
Explore The Hearth Shop in Carmel-By-The-Sea for exquisite fireplaces and enchanting Christmas decor - a unique shopping experience awaits!
The Crossroads Carmel
34.5 km
Explore The Crossroads Carmel, a unique shopping mall in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where boutiques, art galleries, and local flavor meet in a stunning coastal setting.
Big Sur Canna+Botanicals
34.8 km
Explore high-quality cannabis products in a serene setting at Big Sur Canna+Botanicals, where wellness meets tranquility in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Big Sur Taphouse
1.3 km
Experience the best of California's craft beer culture at Big Sur Taphouse, your gateway to stunning views and local flavors.
Sunset Lounge
32.0 km
Experience the elegance of Sunset Lounge in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where breathtaking views meet exquisite cuisine in a luxurious setting.
O'CALLAGHAN'S IRISH PUB
34.8 km
Discover the heart of Ireland at O'Callaghan's Irish Pub - where traditional flavors meet vibrant community spirit in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Wrath Wines- Carmel Tasting Room
36.6 km
Explore Wrath Wines in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a memorable wine tasting experience surrounded by breathtaking coastal views.
Bud's at La Playa
36.6 km
Experience the charm of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Bud's at La Playa, where exquisite cocktails and fine dining meet coastal elegance.
Barmel
36.6 km
Experience the cozy charm and handcrafted cocktails at Barmel, the perfect bar for relaxation in beautiful Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Bar Napoli
36.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy at Bar Napoli, a charming bar and wine destination in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Mulligan Public House
36.7 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Mulligan Public House, Carmel-By-The-Sea's premier bar for craft beers and traditional pub fare.
Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
36.7 km
Discover the exquisite wines and beautiful landscapes at Galante Vineyards in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a true treasure of California's wine country.
Sade's Cocktails
36.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Sade's Cocktails, where exceptional mixology meets a cozy coastal ambiance.
Del Monte Bar & Grill
39.3 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Del Monte Bar & Grill, nestled in the scenic beauty of Monterey, California.
Trident Room
39.9 km
Discover the Trident Room in Monterey, offering a cozy atmosphere, exceptional drinks, and a perfect spot to unwind after your daily adventures.
LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
40.4 km
Discover the enchanting LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill, where mouthwatering cuisine meets stunning views in the heart of Monterey.
Alfredo's Cantina
40.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
Britannia Arms
40.6 km
Discover Britannia Arms, a lively pub in Monterey offering a delightful mix of traditional dishes and local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
