Big Sur is an awesome stretch of spectacular coastline in Central
California. The Santa Lucia Mountains quickly rise over 5,000 feet from
the ocean. This magnificent landscape begins near Carmel at Point Lobos
State Reserve and extends 75 miles south to Ragged Point in San Luis
Obispo County, just south of the Monterey County line. The steep coastal
mountain range and rugged shoreline isolate the Big Sur country, which
maintains an unspoiled, rustic charm and relaxed, leisurely pace.This
completely revised and updated edition of Day Hikes Around Big Sur
includes 99 great day hikes along the coast and throughout the interior
mountains. Hikes, which take from one hour to all day, range from easy
beach strolls to strenuous mountain climbs with panoramic coastal
vistas. The diverse terrain is a hiker's paradise with a well-designed
trail system of more than 300 miles. The network of trails venture into
the beautiful canyons and across the slopes and peaks, offering
unparalleled views of the mountains merging with the coastline. Along
Highway 1 are endless views of the scalloped coastline and the deep blue
Pacific. Awe-inspiring bridges span numerous creeks and deep canyons.
Highlights along the miles of trails include isolated beaches, eroded
coves with tide pools, rugged marine terraces, redwood and Monterey
cypress groves, shady canyons, waterfalls dropping into mossy glens,
lighthouses, and vertical cliffs with crested ridges.Statistics,
accurate driving and hiking directions, and numerous maps make these
hiking adventures stress free. Dog admission information is included.
Most trails can be accessed from Carmel Valley Road or Highway 1,
including many beach access points.Companion guides include Day Hikes
Around Monterey and Carmel and Day Hikes On the California Central
Coast.
