How to Hike Sykes Hot Springs

Sykes Hot Springs is the ultimate Big Sur Wilderness trip, and one that almost every California backpacker makes at some point. Sykes Hot Springs has deep swimming holes, three small pools of hot springs, a trout-filled river, and redwood covered mountains. Any season is good for visiting the springs; but the best times will be when there are fewer hikers there. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Good hiking boots
• Camera
• Food and water

1. Drive 30 miles south from Carmel on Highway 1 to Big Sur Station, on the east side of the road. Get a camping permit from the Big Sur station.
2. Look for the Pine Ridge trailhead behind the ranger station. The first 4 miles of the 10-mile hike is a strenuous climb up a series of switchbacks.
3. Go straight at the junction just past the 4-mile marker. The side trail goes to Ventana camp, where you might want to stay if you got a late start on the hike.
4. Continue past Terrace Creek Camp at the 5.4 mile point. At mile 7 you reach the Big Sur River and Barlow Flat Camp. Cross the river at 9.7 miles and go to Sykes Camp and the hot springs.
5. Choose a place to camp. Pit toilets are on both sides of the river. For some privacy, camp on the far side of the river from the Big Sur trail. By camping on the far side, you can avoid having people constantly walk past your camp to the hot springs.

Tips & Warnings

• Some people prefer to soak the hot springs nude.
• Avoid holidays, weekends and summer if you wish for fewer visitors to compete with.