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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Pfeiffer Falls & Valley View Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through redwood groves to witness the majestic Pfeiffer Falls, a serene cascade in Big Sur's natural splendor.
"The Valley View Trail offers a rewarding hike with beautiful scenery and waterfall views."
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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
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
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Hike amongst towering ancient redwoods, a truly awe-inspiring experience that transports you to another world.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Status & Access
Parking & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trails involve stairs and varied terrain. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for a safe trek.
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty in Big Sur. Download maps beforehand to navigate easily.
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!
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for early morning to snag a spot and avoid disappointment.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trails involve stairs and varied terrain. Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for a safe trek.
Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty in Big Sur. Download maps beforehand to navigate easily.
Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized on the trails. Limited services are available within the park.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🥾 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶 Budget Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
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.
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.
The Magic of Pfeiffer Falls
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit