There’s no better way to experience the soul of Big Sur than by stepping outside and into the wild. From redwood-shaded trails to dramatic cliffside lookouts, this coastline is a haven for hikers, wanderers, and fresh-air seekers alike.
If you’re staying at Ripplewood Resort—or nearby—here’s your go-to list of the best moderate and easy hikes, waterfalls, and scenic spots that define Big Sur hiking and outdoor activities. These adventures are close enough to enjoy as part of a perfect day, but timeless enough to stay with you long after you’ve gone home.
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Buzzard’s Roost Trail
Where: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Length: ~3 miles round trip
Why Go: Towering redwoods. Expansive coastal views. A steady climb that rewards you with sweeping vistas from the ridge. This trail is a local favorite—just minutes from Ripplewood—and offers the perfect intro to Big Sur’s layered landscapes.
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Limekiln Falls Trail
Where: Limekiln State Park
Length: ~1.5 miles round trip
Why Go: This easy hike winds through moss-covered redwoods, past remnants of 19th-century limekilns, and ends at a stunning 100-foot waterfall. A great option for families, photographers, and anyone who wants the feeling of disappearing into a storybook forest.
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Valley View + Pfeiffer Falls Trail
Where: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Length: ~2 miles loop
Why Go: A dual-feature hike that combines lush creekside paths with panoramic mountain views. Pfeiffer Falls was closed for years but has reopened with a new bridge and upgraded trail—perfect for those craving both water and elevation.
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Partington Cove Trail
Where: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Length: ~1 mile round trip
Why Go: A short but surprising trail that tunnels through the cliffside to reveal a rugged cove once used for logging and bootlegging. Watch the waves crash below and take in Big Sur’s wilder side—all in under an hour.
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McWay Falls Overlook
Where: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Length: <0.5 mile
Why Go: You don’t hike to McWay Falls for exercise—you go for wonder. This iconic 80-foot waterfall spills directly onto the beach, and it’s one of the most photographed scenes in all of Big Sur. Easy access and no less breathtaking.
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Wildlife You Might See Along the Way
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California condors soaring above the cliffs
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Banana slugs and deer in the redwood forests
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Harbor seals and otters along the coast
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Hummingbirds, jays, and ravens near Ripplewood and trails
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Pro Tips for Hiking in Big Sur
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Start early to beat crowds and coastal fog
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Wear layers—the temperature can swing wildly from forest to coast
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Pack out trash and stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems
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Check for closures on parks.ca.gov or the Los Padres National Forest site
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No cell service—download trail maps ahead of time
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Where to Rest Between Trails
Back at Ripplewood Resort, you’ll find cozy cabins, hot coffee, and a general store stocked with snacks, firewood, and trail essentials. After a day of Big Sur hiking and outdoor activities, there’s nothing like ending it by the river with your feet up and the redwoods swaying above.
Ready to explore? Grab your hiking shoes, your sense of wonder, and let Big Sur do the rest.
