Tips
June 21, 2022
Hiking
October 5, 2018
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Redwood Grove
4.6
(50)
473
hikers
4.48km
01:22
160m
160m
The Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View Trail offers a captivating journey through the heart of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, blending the cool, shaded embrace of ancient redwood groves with the expansive, sun-drenched vistas of the Big Sur River Valley. You'll wander past Pfeiffer Redwood Creek, marvel at the 60-foot Pfeiffer Falls, and ascend to the Valley View Overlook, where the Santa Lucia Mountains stretch out before you. This 2.8-mile (4.5 km) hiking route, with its 524 feet (160 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes around 1 hour and 22 minutes, making it a rewarding experience for nearly everyone.
Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight, as this trail has seen significant reconstruction, with a reopening in September 2025 after storm damage; always confirm current park status before heading out. Parking is available within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, but it's a popular spot, so arriving early in the day is a smart move to secure a space. This route is a fantastic way to experience two of the park's highlights in one go, providing a diverse and accessible adventure.
What makes this trail particularly notable is its resilience and the unique "two-for-one" experience it offers, combining a waterfall and panoramic views. The trail itself is a testament to nature's recovery, with redwoods showing burn scars from past fires yet continuing to thrive, and new boardwalks and stairs enhancing the journey. The contrast between the lush, shaded redwood canyon and the sunnier oak woodlands on the ascent adds to the diverse beauty, making it a standout option among Big Sur's many trails.
4.8
(19)
288
hikers
5.78km
01:49
220m
220m
Embark on an easy hike along the Buzzards Roost Trail, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) route that guides you through diverse forest landscapes. You will begin in lush redwood groves near the Big Sur River, gradually transitioning to tanoak and pine forests as you climb. The trail offers a steady ascent of 721 feet (220 metres), leading to panoramic views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean from Buzzard's Roost Summit View. This journey, estimated to take around 1 hours and 49 minutes, provides a pleasant experience for most hikers. Keep an eye out for vibrant plant life and diverse wildlife as you explore this scenic path.
To plan your visit, you will find the Buzzards Roost Trail generally accessible within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Parking is available directly inside the park, making it convenient to start your hike. Before heading out, always check the park's official website for the latest conditions. This is important because seasonal changes or maintenance work can sometimes affect trail access. Consider visiting during off-peak times to ensure a smoother experience with parking.
This trail offers a unique opportunity to witness the ecological transition from riparian redwood forests to higher elevation tanoak and pine woodlands. As you ascend, you will notice the distinct changes in vegetation and atmosphere. The route is notable for its clear progression through different forest types, providing a varied natural experience within a relatively short distance. It serves as an excellent introduction to the diverse ecosystems found within the Santa Lucia Mountains region.
4.8
(13)
168
hikers
5.07km
01:38
210m
220m
The Buzzards Roost Trail offers an easy hiking experience through Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. You'll cover 3.2 miles (5.1 km) with a manageable elevation gain of 704 feet (215 metres), typically taking about 1 hours and 37 minutes to complete. The route begins in a thick redwood forest along the Big Sur River, where you can enjoy lush plant life and impressive old-growth trees. As you ascend, the scenery shifts to smaller upland redwoods before transitioning into a highland pine forest, culminating in the rewarding Buzzard's Roost Summit View that offers glimpses of the eastern half of Big Basin.
To plan your visit, remember that the Buzzards Roost Trail is located within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, so park entrance fees apply. Parking is generally available at the trailhead inside the park, but it's wise to plan your arrival, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot. Checking park conditions or potential closures before you head out is always a good idea to ensure a smooth experience.
This trail is a fantastic way to experience the diverse ecosystems of Big Sur, showcasing a unique transition from river-level redwoods to higher elevation pine forests. The varied terrain and plant life make it a notable route for understanding the region's natural environment. It provides a distinct perspective of the park's landscapes, offering a different feel compared to other coastal trails in the area.
Details
Informations
Distance 234 m
Uphill 0 m
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