Big Sur Loop
2026-06-22
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Big Sur Loop
Day 1: Ranger Station to Cold Springs
Don’t forget to fill out the free self-registration form at the trailhead before gearing up ;) Long day, good trail. The detour by the campground remains at the start. The beginning is steep all the way up to Ventana’s campground trail. The trail up along Terrace Creek is nice, followed by a flat~ish dirt road on the ridge.
Cold Springs campground has a cistern with several faucets, the spring/creek itself isn’t really accessible. Bring warm clothes in case the fog rolls over the ridge into the campground.
Notable wildlife: Bobcat(!!), Striped Racer Snake.
Day 2: Cold Springs to Sykes Campground
Every slope is steep, you can spot how the trail is often perpendicular to contour lines. Small part on the ridge to start the day, with a view of the next ridge to the East. Steep way down to Moho and Rainbow campgrounds (South Fork Big Sur river). Steep way up and down to the North Fork of Big Sur river. Easy way up to Cienega Creek and campground. Final uphill battle trail of the day (guess what? steep!), steep way down to join Pine Rigde trail. From the intersection to Sykes campground the trail is easier and delivers an amazing view of the valley.
The whole reason for doing the loop counter-clockwise was to end day 2 at Sykes hot springs and have the best bath ever. Sooo relaxing.
Notable wildlife: Juvenile Pacific Gopher Snake.
Day 3: Sykes Campground back to the Ranger Station
And back to the trailhead! The trail above Barlow campground remains closed, we checked it out and there is still a sheer vertical wall cutting the trail. The trail down is extra steep, the crossing can be done dry (I think, but I didn’t try).
Notable wildlife: Northwestern Skink (lizard, black/yellow body, electric blue tail).