Exciting news for hikers in Northern California! The popular Pfeiffer Falls Trail in Big Sur has officially re-opened after being closed off from the public for more than a decade. The trail was closed after a devastating wildfire tore through the area in 2008. Now, the iconic waterfall hike is looking better than ever with improved access for hikers making the trek to Pfeiffer Falls. It’s been a long time coming, so grab those hiking boots and hit the trail!
A popular trail in Big Sur that takes hikers through a redwood forest and to a breathtaking waterfall has re-opened after a 13-year-long closure. It officially opened to the public on June 18, 2021 after a wildfire destroyed access to it in 2008.
The hike, the Pfeiffer Falls Trail, is located within California's Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. It was one of the park's most popular hiking trails before it suffered devastating wildfire damage, so we're definitely excited to see it open once again and better than ever!
The Basin Complex Fire was considered one of California's most destructive wildfires. Sparked by lightning, the fire tore through over 160,000 acres, taking down any bridges, railings, signs, and trails in its path. It took a lot of work (and time) to repair, but today's Pfeiffer Falls Trail will actually offer improved access for hikers.
The restoration was a combined effort from California State Parks and the Save the Redwoods League. The renovation cost $2 million that went into fixing bridges, walls, steps, railings, and signage. They also replaced 4,500-square-feet of asphalt and concrete, and put work into a more sustainable dirt trail.
One of the highlights of the trail's makeover is a scenic 70-foot pedestrian bridge
that takes hikers across the Pfeiffer Redwood Creek Ravine. It provides a dual purpose by leading foot traffic away from sensitive habitat while providing hikers with excellent views of the ravine, waterfalls, and surrounding forest scenery.
The new trail is .75-miles long and leads down through a gorge before ending up at the 60-foot Pfeiffer Falls. It's a nice and easy walk through a shaded forest, making it perfect for hikers of all skill levels and ages.
The new trail ties into the 1.5-mile-long Valley View loop trail. Brand new interpretive panels can be seen along the trail that provides information on the majestic redwoods, climate change, and the entities that made this beautiful trail possible. Learn more about the park and its trails by visiting the California State Parks website.
Are you so excited to be able to check out this popular waterfall hike? This hike is looking better than ever! Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
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