Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a renowned state park located in the heart of Big Sur, California. This park is a true gem of the California coastline, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and a variety of outdoor activities. From the world-famous McWay Falls to the towering redwood forests, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park has something to captivate every nature lover and outdoor enthusiast.
Environment: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is characterized by its dramatic coastal landscapes, with rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The park is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including redwood forests, coastal grasslands, and marine environments. The combination of these diverse natural elements creates a truly breathtaking and unforgettable setting.
Services and Facilities: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers a range of services and facilities to enhance the visitor experience:
Activities and Features: Staying at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park provides access to a variety of activities and features:
Park Promotion Information:
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers a remarkable experience for those seeking a tranquil and awe-inspiring natural escape. With its iconic McWay Falls, majestic redwood forests, and stunning coastal views, it's the perfect place to create lasting memories in the heart of Big Sur.
Onsite services
Picnics
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Hiking
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
This state park, which is about 10 miles past the main drag of Big Sur going south, is the entryway to the McWay Waterfall, Canyon trail, and the Ewoldsen trail. There are a few other trails here, too, but they are currently closed. I'll say that the three trails mentioned above easily give you a few hours of adventure and entertainment.
Recently visited during a rainy day, the waves were significantly higher than usual, but the sea otters didn’t seem to mind. Beautiful hike, fairly steep and wet so be sure to wear good shoes and wear a rain jacket as rain is inevitable and so is the moisture from the waves.
State of California is filled with many beautiful state parks located on Hwy 1 coast. Julia Pfeiffer Burns would sit on the top of the list. First and foremost, the drive along the coast is filled with coastal beauty and breathtaking views! Visitors wanting to stop every few yards to immerse in the nature and explore picture perfect spots. Parking is available with self pay and they renovated restrooms, picnic area beautifully. Only disappointment is trails are not opened after recent years of natural disasters. Short trail takes one through a tunnell under highway, opens up to watch the stunning views of the cove and McWay falls. Amazing shades of blue pleasing the eyes. There is a hidden campsite on the cliff above the falls accomodating only two tents. Very private! Cliff area is blocked so there is no beach access. Visited so many times, never get tired, it's pure delight. It's located pretty close to Lucia after Big Sur on Hwy1 south.
Located on California 1 highway this is one of the Must Go destinations is west coast. The view on the way to this park is something you will always remember. August is usually foggy here but if you are lucky you will have a sunny day when you can get the best view of McWay falls. Park entrance fee for vehicle is $10 and the same pass should work for any of the state parks in Cali.
Beautiful views! We loved our visit, but were disappointed that the trail was closed partially. The area is well maintained aside from this though. Definitely worth a trip.