Sykes Hot Springs
Unknown
Water temperature
10mi
Hike, one way
Free
No fee reported
Sykes Hot Springs is a backcountry hot spring on the Big Sur River in the Ventana Wilderness. It is reached by a hike of about 10 miles one way on the Pine Ridge Trail from Big Sur Station. Soaking is in informal, hand-built pools near Sykes Camp. The trail has a history of long closures from fire and slides, so check conditions before going.
01 · Before you go
Plan your visit
What to expect on the ground: rules, facilities and when to go.
- Camping nearbySykes Camp has about 7 primitive backcountry sites beside the Big Sur River. It has fire rings and a single box latrine. River water needs purifying. Campfires are currently banned.
- Lodging
- Busy
- SeasonWinter storms and slides can damage the Pine Ridge Trail. Fire season brings campfire restrictions, and fires can close the trail.
- Free to soakWikipedia's Sykes Camp infobox lists no fee. A campfire permit is needed in fire season, and campfires are currently banned. Check with the Forest Service for any other permit requirements.
02 · Live
Conditions
Access status, weather and hazards. Closure feeds are checked automatically every morning.
Access
Closed
The Timber Fire (25,350 acres, 97% contained) reaches this spring. Expect closures.
Checked 14 Oct · updated daily
The Pine Ridge Trail reopened in 2021, but no 2025 or 2026 status was found. Soaking pools in the Ventana Wilderness are unofficial and the Forest Service has said it will remove built tubs. Check with the Monterey Ranger District (831-385-5434) before visiting.
A landslide section about 1.7 miles from the trailhead has a steep drop-off and needs caution. The trail is a narrow bench above the river gorge. Wildfire risk is high, and campfires are banned. The pools are informal, hand-built sandbag tubs that storms can wash out. River water needs treatment.
03 · Route
Getting there
Nearest town: Big Sur. Then a 10-mile hike, one way.
- 1
Start at Big Sur Station on Highway 1, near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
- 2
Hike the Pine Ridge Trail about 9 to 10 miles one way to Sykes Camp.
- 3
The springs are beside the Big Sur River at the camp.
- 4
Part of the trail near the park has a detour for rewilding work, and a slide section about 1.7 miles in needs caution.
36.2500, −121.6830 · nearest town Big Sur, CA
These coordinates are for the spring itself, not the parking area. Navigate to the trailhead named in the directions.
04 · Where to stay
Stay nearby
Start early and stay close. Places to stay near Big Sur, from campgrounds to cabins.
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