Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View Trail - a river flowing through a lush green forest
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Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View Trail

4.6
·491k reviews·, United States

Hike through redwood groves to witness the majestic Pfeiffer Falls, a serene cascade in Big Sur's natural splendor.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Beat the crowds and enjoy peace

CrowdLow
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Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View Trail - a river flowing through a lush green forest

Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View Trail

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Beat the crowds and enjoy peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hike through redwood groves to witness the majestic Pfeiffer Falls, a serene cascade in Big Sur's natural splendor.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Valley View Trail offers a rewarding hike with beautiful scenery and waterfall views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Trail Status First

Pfeiffer Falls Trail can close; use Valley View Trail for waterfall access. Always confirm conditions!

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast! Aim for early morning to snag a spot and avoid disappointment.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pfeiffer Falls Viewpoint

Pfeiffer Falls Viewpoint

Via Valley View Trail

Witness the majestic Pfeiffer Falls cascading down, a rewarding sight after a moderate hike through redwood groves.

Valley View Trail

Valley View Trail

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

A scenic 2-mile loop offering stunning vistas and a chance to immerse yourself in the park's diverse flora.

Redwood Forest Immersion

Redwood Forest Immersion

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Hike amongst towering ancient redwoods, a truly awe-inspiring experience that transports you to another world.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Status & Access

Check current trail conditions before you go! The Pfeiffer Falls Trail itself can be closed, but the Valley View Trail often provides access to waterfall views. Always confirm with park officials for the latest updates.

Parking & Fees

Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. Be prepared for a day-use fee, typically around $10 per vehicle, for access to the park and its trails. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Crowd
Low
When
Spring & Fall
Why
Pleasant weather, lush scenery
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍McWay Falls McWay Falls, a coastal gem in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, cascades gracefully onto a pristine sandy cove, creating a picture-perfect scene where the waterfall meets the Pacific Ocean. #mcwayfalls#california#bigsur#bigsurcalifornia#californiaroadtrip#bigsurroadtrip#californiatravelguide
@wanderingcreator_meghana
113.5K likes • 3.2M views

Check Trail Status First

Pfeiffer Falls Trail can close; use Valley View Trail for waterfall access. Always confirm conditions! Instagram

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast! Aim for early morning to snag a spot and avoid disappointment. Instagram

🌊 McWay Falls, Big Sur 🌊 Is this the most magical spot in Big Sur? I think so! ✨ McWay Falls is one of California’s most iconic landmarks, where an 80-foot waterfall gracefully cascades directly onto the sandy cove below. The views here are straight out of a dream. 🌅 📍 Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park 🎟️ Fee: $10 per car for day use ⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – Sunset The trail to the viewpoint is short and ...
@lisarosanty
46.7K likes • 314.2K views
Pfeiffer Falls, Big Sur State Park . . It was nice to revisit this trail last week. If you’re driving through Big Sur make a stop at Big Sur State Park check out their gift shop & stroll through the forest. This is a 1.3 mile hike with lots of stairs to get those legs pumping before hitting the road again and taking in those incredible views along highway 1 #bigsur #california #lifestyle #trave...
gyminjc
199 likes • 3.5K views

Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trails involve stairs and varied terrain. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for a safe trek. Instagram

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is spotty in Big Sur. Download maps beforehand to navigate easily. Instagram

Save this post for your next trip to Big Sur 🌊 These are the places in Big Sur I recommend you stop at if you get the chance to drive along the pacific coast highway. 📍Partington Cove Trail 📍Pfeiffer Beach 📍Pfeiffer Falls Trail 📍McWay Falls 🧭 Time to Big Sur 🚙 2hr 30 from San Francisco 🚙 6 hr from LA I suggest downloading Google Maps and saving these locations on there.⁣ Give yourself at leas...
alexkhachigian
16.4K likes • 457.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Trail Status First

Pfeiffer Falls Trail can close; use Valley View Trail for waterfall access. Always confirm conditions! Instagram

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast! Aim for early morning to snag a spot and avoid disappointment. Instagram

Wear Sturdy Footwear

The trails involve stairs and varied terrain. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for a safe trek. Instagram

Download Offline Maps

Cell service is spotty in Big Sur. Download maps beforehand to navigate easily. Instagram

Bring Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated and energized on the trails. Limited services are available within the park. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Pfeiffer Falls and the immersive redwood forest experience. The Valley View Trail offers a rewarding hike with beautiful scenery, though the direct Pfeiffer Falls Trail can be closed. Parking is a common challenge, and arriving early is highly recommended.

What People Like

Majestic waterfall views
Enchanting redwood forests
Rewarding moderate hike

What People Dislike

Limited parking availability
Trail closures can occur

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The trails are located within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, accessible via Highway 1. From the park entrance, follow signs for the Pfeiffer Falls Trailhead. Parking is available within the park, but can fill up quickly. Instagram

Yes, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is directly located along the iconic Highway 1, making it a convenient stop for those driving the Pacific Coast Highway. Instagram

The drive from San Francisco to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the scenic route. Instagram

From Los Angeles, the drive to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is considerably longer, usually around 5 to 6 hours, so plan accordingly if you're coming from Southern California. Instagram

Public transportation options to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park are very limited. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle for the best experience and flexibility. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is a day-use fee for Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, typically around $10 per vehicle. This fee grants access to the park and its various trails, including those leading to Pfeiffer Falls. TikTok

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is generally open from 8:00 AM until sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for any seasonal changes or specific trail hours. TikTok

Advance ticket booking is usually not required for day-use entry to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. However, during peak seasons or holidays, arriving early is crucial due to limited parking. Instagram

No, the Pfeiffer Falls Trail itself can sometimes be closed due to maintenance or trail conditions. The Valley View Trail often serves as an alternative route to view the falls. Instagram

If you have a California State Parks annual pass, it may cover the day-use fee for Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. It's best to verify the pass coverage with California State Parks. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The Valley View Trail, which often leads to Pfeiffer Falls, is approximately 2 miles roundtrip and can take about an hour to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views. Instagram

The Valley View Trail is considered moderate, involving a climb of about 200 feet through woodland. It's manageable for most fitness levels, but be prepared for some stairs. Instagram+1

Yes, the Valley View Trail provides access to viewpoints where you can see Pfeiffer Falls. While the direct Pfeiffer Falls Trail might be closed, Valley View offers a great alternative. Instagram

Expect to hike through beautiful redwood and oak woodlands, with opportunities for stunning coastal vistas from the Valley View Trail. It's a diverse and picturesque landscape. Instagram+2

Yes, restrooms are typically available within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. It's advisable to use them before starting your hike, as facilities may be limited on the trails themselves. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints along the Valley View Trail offer excellent perspectives of Pfeiffer Falls. Capture the waterfall against the backdrop of the redwood forest for stunning shots. Instagram+1

While you can get good views from designated viewpoints on the Valley View Trail, direct access to the base of Pfeiffer Falls might be restricted. Focus on capturing the grandeur from the trail. Instagram

Morning light can be beautiful, offering softer shadows. However, the falls are impressive throughout the day. Consider the angle of the sun to avoid harsh glare. Instagram

Drone usage is generally prohibited in California State Parks, including Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment. Always check park regulations. Reddit

For capturing waterfall motion, use a slower shutter speed (e.g., 1/2 second or longer) with a tripod to get that silky smooth water effect. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View Trail offers a fantastic family-friendly adventure. The 2-mile Valley View Trail is moderately challenging, with stairs that can be fun for active kids to navigate. The redwood forest provides a sense of wonder, and the sight of Pfeiffer Falls is sure to captivate young imaginations. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider bringing a carrier for very young children. Instagram+1

Remember to check trail conditions beforehand, as the direct Pfeiffer Falls Trail can be closed. The Valley View Trail is a great alternative that still offers beautiful scenery and waterfall views. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the immersive experience of hiking amongst the giant redwoods. Instagram

🚶 Budget Travelers

Visiting Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View Trail is an excellent budget-friendly activity within Big Sur. The primary cost is the park's day-use fee, which is typically around $10 per vehicle. This fee grants access to the trails and stunning natural beauty. TikTok

To maximize savings, pack your own lunch, snacks, and plenty of water. This avoids the need to purchase food at potentially higher-priced park concessions or nearby towns. Carpooling with friends or family can also help split the parking fee, making it an even more economical outing. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a jewel along the iconic Highway 1, offering a diverse range of natural beauty. The park is divided into different areas, with the main visitor facilities and campgrounds located near the Big Sur River. When visiting Pfeiffer Falls, you'll typically enter through the main park entrance and follow signs towards the trailhead. Parking is a key consideration here; it's often limited, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to secure a parking spot and enjoy a more serene hiking experience. Instagram+1

The park's trails wind through magnificent redwood groves, offering a stark contrast to the rugged coastal scenery Big Sur is famous for. The Valley View Trail is a popular choice, providing access to the Pfeiffer Falls viewpoint. While the direct Pfeiffer Falls Trail can sometimes be closed for maintenance, the Valley View Trail offers a rewarding hike with beautiful forest scenery and a glimpse of the waterfall. Be prepared for some elevation gain, as the trail involves stairs and a moderate climb. Instagram

Beyond the falls, the park offers other hiking opportunities, including the Creamery Meadows Trail, which can lead towards the coast. It's essential to check the park's official website or visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail status, closures, and any advisories before your visit. Downloading offline maps is also a wise precaution, as cell service can be unreliable in this remote coastal region. Instagram+1

The Magic of Pfeiffer Falls

Pfeiffer Falls is a stunning 60-foot waterfall that plunges into a serene pool, nestled within the lush landscape of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. While the direct trail to the base of the falls can be subject to closures, the Valley View Trail provides an excellent alternative route to admire this natural wonder. This 2-mile roundtrip hike offers a moderate challenge, taking you through enchanting redwood and oak woodlands. The ascent involves a series of stairs, which can be a good workout before you reach the rewarding viewpoints. Instagram+1

The experience of seeing Pfeiffer Falls is often described as magical and awe-inspiring. The sound of the water cascading down, combined with the verdant surroundings, creates a tranquil and picturesque scene. Many visitors find it to be a highlight of their Big Sur journey, offering a different kind of beauty compared to the dramatic coastal cliffs. It’s a perfect spot for photography, with opportunities to capture the falls in their natural, untamed glory. TikTokInstagram

When planning your visit, remember that trail conditions can change. Always verify the status of the Pfeiffer Falls Trail and opt for the Valley View Trail if necessary. The effort to reach the viewpoint is well worth it, providing a memorable encounter with one of Big Sur's captivating waterfalls. Instagram

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