Pros & cons
PROS
- One of the few dog friendly loops in the park
- Fully wheelchair and stroller accessible, including Redwood Deck boardwalk
- Connects the Lodge, amphitheater, picnic areas, and river in a quick circuit
CONS
- Very short and can feel crowded near the Lodge and day use lots
- Low spots can be wet after storms; optional stepping stones may be unavailable
- Limited solitude due to proximity to roads and facilities
Park in Day‑Use Lot 1 or 2 by Big Sur Lodge; day‑use fee required. Start at the Redwood Deck or signed trail junctions near the lots.
After storms, edges near the river can be slick and the stepping‑stone detour to the Nature Center may be unsafe. Expect intermittent Highway 1 traffic controls near Rocky Creek; check current conditions before driving.
Overview
A gentle 0.6‑mile loop that strings together the River Path, the Redwood Deck boardwalk, and Warden’s Path, this is the park’s easiest, most accessible stroll. It’s essentially flat, wheelchair and stroller friendly, and a quick way to slip into towering redwoods without committing to a longer hike.
What You’ll See
You’ll trace the Big Sur River past interpretive panels, picnic areas, and a CCC‑built amphitheater, then wander the Redwood Deck through an old‑growth grove (keep an eye out for the quirky “Proboscis Tree”). Expect filtered light, river sounds, and plenty of benches to linger.
Route Tips
Start by Big Sur Lodge at the Redwood Deck or from Day‑Use Lots 1 or 2. Walk the River Path first, then cross the park road and return via Warden’s Path to close the loop. The total distance is about 0.6 miles (loop total), with smooth surfaces throughout.
Dog and Accessibility Notes
Dogs are allowed on River Path and Warden’s Path (leash required), but not on the Nature Trail. Surfaces are mostly paved or hard‑packed, and the boardwalk sections make this a rare redwood experience that works for wheelchairs and strollers.
Extras and Alternatives
When river flows are low, a short stepping‑stone detour can reach the Ewoldsen Memorial Nature Center; skip it when water is high. If you want a touch more walking without added effort, combine River Path with the Nature Trail for an easy, still‑flat loop—just note the no‑dogs rule on that segment.
Best Time to Go
Mornings or late afternoons bring softer light in the redwoods and thinner crowds around the Lodge and day‑use areas. After storms, expect damp edges near the river and occasional puddles on low spots.
Elevation
0.6 mi · 30 minWhere it starts
36.2504, -121.7853Near River Path and Warden's Path
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayBuzzard's Roost TrailShort redwoods-to-ridge climb with broad ocean and canyon views.Moderate · 3 mi · 1.8 hr
0 mi awayRedwood DeckShort boardwalk in a redwood cathedral steps from the LodgeParking · Restroom
0 mi awayRedwood Grove Picnic AreaShady redwood picnic tables steps from the river and easy loopsPicnic Table · Restroom
0 mi awayBig Sur Lodge CafeQuick coffee and grab‑and‑go bites under the redwoodsFood
0.1 mi awayBig Sur Lodge Gift Shop & General StoreYear‑round lodge store for souvenirs, snacks, and camping basicsStore · Food
0.1 mi awayNature TrailGentle redwood loop with river moments and CCC historyEasy · 1 mi · 45 min
0.1 mi awayPfeiffer Falls TrailRedwoods to a 60-foot falls, then a short climb to valley views.Moderate · 2 mi · 1 hr
0.1 mi awayMount Manuel TrailSteep, shadeless grind to a ridge with big valley viewsChallenging · 10.8 mi · 7.5 hr
