Ventana Wilderness — Attraction in Monterey

Pine Ridge trail starts at the Big Sur Station. There's a parking lot ($10 per day) self paid cash or pay at the office if open. Then self register with the US Forest Service kiosk before you start your hike. It's a 10 miles (strenuous level) to Sikes campground each way, where the very popular Hot Springs are located. Expect groups of hikers camping & bathing. Due to the elevation gain this hike is not for beginners and water, food & cold weather protection must be carried. It gets cold at night (40°F) in October, and hot around noon (80°F). There are 2 Big Sur river crossings (bring extra socks in case you fall since there are not bridges) The trail is well maintained (thank you volunteers!) and the views are gorgeous after you reach high elevations. But it's not easy to follow after the first river crossing. There's a shorter & easy variant to the lookout for those that want a quick hike. There are 2 restrooms at the...

Free parking and easy accesss every one should see these strange animals. Farting. Scratching throwing sand on themselves and in there neighbors face. Even saw some squirming over the others...noses bent over backwards in disappaproval.. They were moulting when we visited.. Nature's...

A natural treasure we're so lucky to have here on the Central Coast. Protected/maintained by an army of volunteers who keep the trails in great shape for hikers to enjoy year round. I really appreciate all they do to keep Big Sur...