First time backpacking recommendations in Big Sur
I’m planning on taking a trip out to Big Sur on my own at the end of May/early June, does anyone have any trail recommendations?
I want to go for two days one night and I saw that there were some hot springs around the area so that peaked my interest but I’m not sure which one may be good for me. I know they were rated as longer/ harder hiked but finishing at a hot spring sounds so satisfying.
Some background: My plan is for this to be a solo trip and I’m a pretty fit 23 year old woman. I lift and rock climb multiple times a week (dont ask me about cardio 😬) I’ve never gone backpacking before, but I’ve done plenty of day hiking along the coast, in Tahoe, Yosemite(I just did the cables on half dome last summer!), and most recently out at Rocky Mountain in Colorado. Because of all that I feel like I could easily manage 8-16 miles in a day depending on elevation gain and I could see myself hiking anywhere from 6-10 hours in a day.
I don’t have a good car for car camping and I don’t know what I should do for parking either, I’m assuming it really depends on the trail that I end up choosing..
If anyone has additional advice for me that would be greatly appreciated too!!
Posted Apr 9, 2022, 8:07 PM UTC
I really love the Cruikshank trail. You can go as long as you want on it. Great for first time backpacking. There is a stream along the way to dip into and plenty of designated camping spots. It connects with the salmon creek trail which is also very nice just a little more populated. If you are looking for hot springs, you should hike to the Sykes hot springs. It’s about 10 miles there and 10 miles back. A little more challenging but worth it.
Sykes was the one I noticed!! Ty for the suggestions!