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- Region
- California
- Country
- United States
- Trip length
- 20 miles round-trip
- Backpacking
- Hiking
- Climbing
- Mountaineering
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Desert Hiking
- Canyoneering
Key takeaways
- Trip length: 20 miles round-trip
- Top activity: backpacking
Topic summary
Rugged 20-mile canyon trek through Los Padres backcountry to thermal river pools
Intended uses
backpacking
Verification notes
Last verified October 16, 2026.
Tools for a trip here
Picked for how, when and where you're going. Free, no signup.
- Sleep System Temp CalculatorCold nights: check your bag and pad add up to a safe sleep.
- Base Weight CalculatorEvery ounce is carried — total your kit and find your base weight.
- Pack Volume SizerSize the pack for your trip length and season.
- Water Purification MatrixTreat water from streams and lakes on trail.
- Layering CalculatorCold-season miles: layer for climbs and camp.
Plan with verified data
Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs trip tools
How to get there
Confirm that the fire-related closure has been lifted before departing. From Monterey, drive south on Highway 1 approximately 23 miles. Turn left at the Big Sur Station Visitor Center and follow signs to the Pine Ridge Trailhead parking area. For access and trail conditions, call the Big Sur Multi-Agency Visitor Center at (831) 667-2315.
- Big Sur Station / Pine Ridge Trailhead
The western entry point for the Pine Ridge Trail and the Big Sur River corridor, with dedicated parking and potable water. Listed as closed in August 2026 due to the Timber and Plaskett Fires; confirm reopening before visiting.
- China Camp on Tassajara Road
The eastern endpoint of the Pine Ridge Trail's connection with Big Sur Station. Starting here does not eliminate the river crossings required to reach Sykes Hot Springs. Confirm access and closure coverage before planning an approach.
Sources: fs.usda.gov · Wikipedia · Wikivoyage. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
Popular pursuits at Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs
- Backpacking
Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Climbing
Rock and alpine lines with approach beta.
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Desert Hiking
Water carries and heat management drive the plan.
Animals around Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs
Maps, GPS & compass for this trip
Carry a waterproof paper map and a compass you can steer by, and treat the GPS as the backup — not the other way round. Buying links go to Amazon; Wild10 earns a commission at no cost to you.
Waterproof topo maps
- Waterproof topographic map — Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot SpringsAmazon search for waterproof, tear-resistant topo maps covering this area.
- National Geographic Trails IllustratedThe waterproof Trails Illustrated series — check for a sheet covering this area.
- Waterproof map case & compass lanyardKeep a paper map readable in rain, spray and a swamped boat.
Fishing at Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs
Planning to fish Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs, California? Fishing licenses, open seasons and catch limits in California are set by the local wildlife authority and change every year — check the official source before you cast a line.
Do I need a fishing license at Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs?
- A California fishing license is normally required for anyone over the local youth age.
- Read the current California fishing regulations for special waters, barbless-hook or catch-and-release rules.
- Clean, drain and dry boats and gear between waters to stop invasive species.
- Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs may add its own fishing rules on top of California law — check the managing agency too.
Hunting near Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs
Thinking about hunting Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs, California? Hunting seasons, tags and draws in California are set by the wildlife authority each year. Confirm the rules for your species and unit before you go.
Is hunting allowed at Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs?
- Hunting is prohibited or heavily restricted in many national parks, wilderness and protected areas — confirm with the Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs land manager before planning a hunt, and look to surrounding public land.
What do I need to hunt in California?
- A California hunting license — most jurisdictions also require hunter education certification.
- Species tags or draw results for big game such as deer, elk, moose or bear where they occur.
- Knowledge of firearm and bow transport rules, which differ by land type and border crossing.
Closure status and trip planning
The Pine Ridge Trailhead from Big Sur is listed as closed as of August 2026 because of the Timber and Plaskett Fires. Confirm reopening and the scope of the Monterey Ranger District emergency closure before traveling; do not treat the trailhead’s usual year-round operating schedule as permission to enter during a closure. The Big Sur Multi-Agency Visitor Center can provide trail-condition information at (831) 667-2315. Once access resumes, planning still needs to account for river conditions, strenuous terrain and limited campsite space. Reaching Sykes Hot Springs requires multiple river crossings regardless of the trailhead used. Winter high water can make those crossings impossible, and the springs may be inaccessible during or after heavy rainfall. A trip here should depend on confirmed access and manageable river conditions, not simply on having enough time to hike.
The Pine Ridge landscape
The Pine Ridge Trail enters the Ventana Wilderness in California’s Santa Lucia Range, linking Big Sur Station with Tassajara Road at China Camp. Built by the Post family of Big Sur in 1916, it crosses a varied landscape of chaparral, redwoods, pine and oak. The western section gives access to the Big Sur River corridor and streamside, redwood-shaded camps including Terrace Creek, Barlow Flat, Sykes and Redwood. Farther east, the setting changes to forested ridges and meadows around Pine Ridge, Divide and Pine Valley camps. For a Sykes trip, the river corridor is the focus, but this is not an easy riverside walk. Considerable elevation gains and losses make the approach strenuous even for experienced hikers. Fallen trees can complicate passage. Plan for sustained effort and obstacles rather than judging the outing by its hot-springs destination.
Camping without a guaranteed site
There are five camps along the 12 miles of Pine Ridge Trail between Big Sur Station and Redwood Camp. Sykes Camp receives the heaviest use, while Barlow Flat has the most room; Barlow Flat and Redwood are suggested alternatives for hikers willing to consider less-used camps. Campsites have no reservation system. Arriving and beginning the hike earlier improves the chance of finding space, but it does not guarantee a campsite. Posted occupancy limits must be respected, and hikers must continue along the trail if a camp is full. Build enough flexibility into the itinerary to handle that possibility without relying on Sykes as the only overnight stop. The western trail also supports out-and-back day hikes for visitors who do not want to camp, provided the turnaround suits their ability, available daylight and conditions.
Parking, fire rules and trail conduct
When the trailhead is open, Big Sur Station provides a dedicated parking area with 55 spaces and potable water. Parking costs $10 for any portion of a calendar day, so a one-night stay costs $20 and a two-night stay costs $30. Payment can be made at the self-registration station or at Big Sur Station. A California Campfire Permit is required to operate a small gas stove or have a campfire; check current fire-use restrictions as well, rather than assuming a permit authorizes either activity under all conditions. Dogs are allowed on the Pine Ridge Trail and must remain under leash or voice control. Leash them around packers, horses and stock animals, keep them in the tent at night, and bury their waste 100 feet from water or trail. Maintain control so other visitors and stock can pass safely.
Route options
- Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot SpringsStrenuous and challenging, even for experienced hikers
Approach from Big Sur Station through the western Pine Ridge corridor toward Sykes. Expect considerable climbing and descending, possible fallen-tree obstacles and multiple river crossings. Heavy rainfall and winter flows can prevent access. Plan only after reopening is confirmed.
- Pine Ridge Trail to Barlow Flat CampStrenuous
An overnight alternative along the western river corridor. Barlow Flat has the most campsite room and is less heavily used than Sykes, but space is not reserved and posted occupancy limits apply. Confirm trail access and river conditions.
- Pine Ridge Trail to Redwood Camp12 miles from Big Sur Station to Redwood CampStrenuous
Continue along the western Pine Ridge Trail to a redwood-shaded camp identified as a less-used alternative to Sykes. Allow for substantial elevation changes, trail obstacles and river crossings, and do not assume a campsite will be available.
- Pine Ridge Trail out-and-back day hikeStrenuous; depends on turnaround
When access resumes, hike from Big Sur Station and choose a turnaround suited to conditions and ability rather than committing to the hot springs. This avoids an overnight campsite commitment but not the trail's demanding elevation changes or potential obstacles.
Sample itineraries
- Pine Ridge out-and-back day hike · 1 day
Only after reopening is confirmed: start at Big Sur Station and follow Pine Ridge Trail through chaparral and forest. Choose a turnaround suited to fitness, daylight and trail conditions rather than committing to Sykes. Considerable climbing and fallen trees can slow progress.
- Sykes overnight · 2 days
Only after reopening and safe crossings are confirmed: hike from Big Sur Station toward Sykes Camp, stay within posted campsite occupancy limits, and return the following day. This is a strenuous backpacking trip, even for experienced hikers. Sykes is heavily used; do not assume a campsite will be available.
- Barlow Flat base with Sykes excursion · 3 days
After reopening is confirmed, hike to Barlow Flat Camp and establish camp if space permits. Use the middle day for an out-and-back toward Sykes Hot Springs only if river conditions allow. Return to Big Sur Station on day three. Barlow Flat has more camping room than the other trail camps.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Spring; check access before departure
Heavy rainfall can make Sykes inaccessible during or after storms. Do not assume crossings are safe because winter has ended. Confirm river conditions and closure status with the Big Sur Multi-Agency Visitor Center.
Summer
Summer; subject to fire closures
The trailhead was listed closed in August 2026 because of the Timber and Plaskett Fires. Confirm reopening before planning travel. Chaparral sections call for sun protection and sufficient drinking water; check current fire-use restrictions.
Fall
Fall; confirm closure status
Do not assume the August 2026 fire closure has ended. Confirm access before departure. If heavy rain occurs, river crossings may prevent access to Sykes even when the trailhead is open.
Winter
Winter; especially during and after heavy rainfall
High water and dangerous river flow can make required crossings impossible. Sykes Hot Springs may be inaccessible during or after heavy rainfall. Be prepared to turn back rather than attempt an unsafe crossing.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Spring; check access before departure | Heavy rainfall can make Sykes inaccessible during or after storms. Do not assume crossings are safe because winter has ended. Confirm river conditions and closure status with the Big Sur Multi-Agency Visitor Center. |
| Summer | Summer; subject to fire closures | The trailhead was listed closed in August 2026 because of the Timber and Plaskett Fires. Confirm reopening before planning travel. Chaparral sections call for sun protection and sufficient drinking water; check current fire-use restrictions. |
| Fall | Fall; confirm closure status | Do not assume the August 2026 fire closure has ended. Confirm access before departure. If heavy rain occurs, river crossings may prevent access to Sykes even when the trailhead is open. |
| Winter | Winter; especially during and after heavy rainfall | High water and dangerous river flow can make required crossings impossible. Sykes Hot Springs may be inaccessible during or after heavy rainfall. Be prepared to turn back rather than attempt an unsafe crossing. |
Permits, fees & closures
A California Campfire Permit is required for a small gas stove or campfire and is available through Ready for Wildfire. Check current fire-use restrictions and closure status separately; a permit does not override restrictions.
Fees: Pine Ridge Trailhead parking costs $10 per vehicle for any portion of a calendar day. One overnight costs $20; two nights cost $30. Pay at the self-registration station or Big Sur Station.
Reservations: There is no campsite reservation system. Follow posted occupancy limits and continue to an available campsite if one is full. Earlier arrival improves the chance of finding space but does not guarantee it.
Official source: Los Padres National Forest | Pine Ridge Trailhead from Big Sur · Verified October 16, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Fire closure: the trailhead was listed closed in August 2026 because of the Timber and Plaskett Fires. Confirm reopening before entering.
- Multiple river crossings are required to reach Sykes regardless of trailhead. High water and dangerous flow can make them impossible, particularly in winter or after heavy rainfall.
- Considerable elevation gains and losses make Pine Ridge Trail strenuous even for experienced hikers. Allow enough energy and daylight for the return.
- Fallen trees often obstruct the trail and can make passage difficult.
- Sykes Camp is heavily used. Full campsites may force additional hiking; never exceed posted occupancy limits.
What to pack for Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs
- Trail map and navigation tools
- Sturdy hiking footwear
- Headlamp
- First-aid kit
- Trekking poles for uneven terrain
- Drinking water and carrying capacity
- Backcountry water treatment
- Rain shell
- Insulating layer
- Sun protection for chaparral sections
- Tent
- Sleeping bag and sleeping pad
- Food for the planned trip and unexpected delays
- Small gas stove only when permitted by current restrictions
- California Campfire Permit if using a stove
Ventana Wilderness: Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs FAQ
- Is Pine Ridge Trailhead currently open?
- The latest posted status, updated August 31, 2026, lists the site closed because of the Timber and Plaskett Fires. That closure takes precedence over the general year-round operating description. Confirm reopening with the Big Sur Multi-Agency Visitor Center at (831) 667-2315.
- Where does the hike start?
- The western trailhead is at Big Sur Station Visitor Center. From Monterey, drive south on Highway 1 approximately 23 miles, turn left at the visitor center, and follow parking signs. Potable water is available at the trailhead.
- Can Sykes be reached without river crossings?
- No. Multiple river crossings are required regardless of which trailhead is used. During winter or after heavy rainfall, high water and dangerous flow may make Sykes inaccessible. Ask the visitor center about conditions before starting.
- Where can backpackers camp?
- Pine Ridge Trail serves Terrace Creek, Barlow Flat, Sykes and Redwood Camps along its western section. Barlow Flat has the most room, while Sykes is most heavily used. Consider Barlow Flat or Redwood, obey posted occupancy limits, and do not count on a reserved space.
- Are dogs allowed?
- Yes. Dogs must remain under leash or voice control, and must be leashed around packers, horses and stock animals. Keep dogs in the tent at night. Bury dog waste 100 feet from water or the trail.
- Is this suitable for a casual hot-springs walk?
- No. The hike is strenuous and challenging even for experienced hikers, with substantial climbing and descending, fallen-tree obstacles and multiple river crossings. A shorter Pine Ridge out-and-back is an alternative once access is open, without committing to Sykes.