A Guide to California's Big Sur

Along the Highway

Big Sur Station

Big Sur Station Multi-Agency Facility houses personnel representing the California State Park System (Department of Parks and Recreation) and Los Padres National Forest of the U.S. Forest Service (each of which is responsible for much of the land in the Big Sur Valley and the overall Big Sur region), and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). Big Sur Station is probably as close to a "visitor center" as Big Sur has. Its Nature Station Store has books, trail maps, and related materials available for everyone from casual visitors to dedicated wilderness backpackers. An employee at the counter answers questions in person and by telephone (often at the same time!).

In addition to the California State Parks listed elsewhere in this guide, Big Sur has the Ventana Wilderness Area and the Silver Peak Wilderness Area, located within Los Padres National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Ventana Wilderness Area elevations range from about 600 feet (185 m) above sea level to 5750 feet (1750 m). A wilderness permit, available at Big Sur Station, is required for overnight travel in either wilderness area.

Reference

• Information 831.667.2315

Activities, Facilities, and Services

• Restrooms
• Telephone Services: public telephone
• Gift Shops and Galleries: Nature Station Store
• Ranger Stations

  California State Parks; Los Padres National Forest, U.S. Forest Service

  Multiple Agency Facility, Big Sur Station #1, Big Sur CA 93920 USA

  831.667.2315 / fax 831.667.2886

• Public Transit stop (seasonal)
• Hiking and Backpacking
• Hot Springs - Mineral Baths: Here is the trailhead for the 10-mile (or so) walk up Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs. Most do this trip as an overnight backpack trip. For more detailed information, contact Big Sur Station and see the resources listed on the Books and Maps page.