Pfeiffer Falls: A Big Sur Jewel
Hike through redwood forests to a stunning waterfall in the heart of Big Sur's Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. A scenic and revitalizing experience.
Hike through towering redwoods to the base of Pfeiffer Falls, a 60-foot waterfall cascading into a tranquil pool in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The trail, recently renovated, offers stunning views of the redwood-filled canyon.
A brief summary to Pfeiffer Falls
- Big Sur, California, 93920, US
Local tips
- Check current trail conditions before you go. Parts of the trail may be closed due to storm damage.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can be limited.
- Bring water and wear appropriate shoes for hiking on uneven terrain.
- Be aware that cell service in the area can be unreliable.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 1, turn east into Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Follow the road, passing the Big Sur Lodge. If you are not staying at the lodge, continue to the day-use parking lots. A day-use fee of $10 per vehicle is required. Park in Day Use Lot #1 or #2. From the parking area, walk back towards the Big Sur Lodge.
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Walking
From the Big Sur Lodge, walk across the road to find the start of the Pfeiffer Falls Trail. Follow the River Path, passing the amphitheater on your right. Continue along the path until you reach the trailhead. The trail is well-marked. The hike to the falls is approximately 2.4 miles round trip.
Discover more about Pfeiffer Falls
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fernwood Campground and Resort
1.2 km
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Sign | Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
1.7 km
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Post Ranch Inn
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COAST Big Sur
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Point Sur Naval Facility
10.9 km
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Point Sur Lighthouse
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52801 CA-1
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Hurricane Point
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Bixby Creek Bridge
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Hot Springs Creek Bridge
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Kasler Point
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D L James “Seaward” House
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Butterfly House
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Mission Trail Park
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Clinton Walker House - Frank Lloyd Wright
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Unmissable attractions to see
Redwood Deck
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Big Sur Station
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Big Sur River
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Big Sur River Gorge
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Pfeiffer Beach
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Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach
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Henry Miller Memorial Library
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Andrew Molera State Park
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Seal Beach Overlook
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The California Sea Otter State Game Refuge
11.2 km
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Partington Cove
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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point
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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
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Essential places to dine
Homestead
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Fernwood Tavern
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Big Sur Roadhouse
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Cottages Grocery Restaurant
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Sushi Jawn
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Big Sur Bakery
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The Village, Big Sur
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Restaurant at Big Sur River Inn
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Big Sur River Inn
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Sierra Mar
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Big Sur Smokehouse
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The Sur House
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Nepenthe
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Cafe Kevah
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Deetjen's Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fernwood General Store
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Big Sur Goods
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David's Coastal Collections
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Big Sur Deli
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Mother Botanical & Shop
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Studio One - Big Sur
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Big Sur River Inn General Store
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The Crossroads Carmel
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Bar Napoli
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Barmel
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Mulligan Public House
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Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
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Sade's Cocktails
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Del Monte Bar & Grill
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Trident Room
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Alfredo's Cantina
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Britannia Arms
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