Garrapata Sate Park - Big Sur, CA

Today we’re heading to the northernmost point of Big Sur, just 6 miles south of Carmel, to explore one of California’s amazing coastal State Parks. Join me at Garrapata State Park.

History

Until the introduction of the Spanish mission system in the late 1700s, the Costanoan (Ohlone) people called this area home. The Soberanes family then operated a ranch here for nearly 25 years in the late 1800s, and the Doud Ranch followed, operating from 1891-1950. The state of California acquired this property in the 1980, and in 1985 Garrapata was officially named a California State Park.

Location & Wildlife

Set at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountain range and covering nearly 3,000 acres, Garrapata State Park reaches from the rugged sea caves and rocky shoreline to the deep inland canyons and steep mountainous terrain. Over 60 species of mammals and 110 species of birds make their home inside the park. Gray whales pass by during their migration, and sea lions, harbor seals and sea otters frequent these waters as well. Diverse coastal vegetation is found here, including the special Calla Lily Valley which blooms every Spring. Trails run from the rocky coast and beach to the dense Redwood Groves, which are hidden from sight if you’re driving past on Highway 1.

Visiting

The park is marked by 19 small numbered turn outs, and you could miss the park entirely if you didn’t know to look for it. There are many wonderful hiking trails here for all levels of hikers…from the easy 1 mile Garrapata Bluff Trail to the strenuous 6 mile Doud Peak Trail. It’s important to look for the numbered placards on the oceanside of the highway, as they are the only signs that will direct you to where you want to go. For instance, the popular Soberanes Point Trail can be reached by gates 8, 9 or 10, while beach access and Calla Lily Valley are found through gates 18 & 19.

Know Before You go

• In 2016 the massive (and at that time the most expensive) wildfire in US history, the Soberanes Fire broke out as a result of an illegal campfire inside the park. Big Sur is one of our state’s incredible natural jewels, and I hope you have the opportunity to experience its beauty for yourself. However, as more and more people visit these spots, it’s incredibly important to pack out everything you pack in, and also consider learning about The Big Sur Pledge and how to honor the natural environment when visiting this special spot. Many visitors can bless these natural spots when we honor local regulations and leave the area better than we found it.

• Make sure to check the official park website for current conditions and trail status before your visit.

• Garrapata is one of the foggiest spots in Big Sur. It’s known for cool mornings, strong winds, and hot Summer afternoons, so be prepared with layered clothing when you visit.

• It’s important to wear proper footwear and potentially long sleeves/pants when hiking here. Garrapata means “tick”, and ticks are known to be present here.

• It’s important to stay on the establish trails to protect the ecosystem. There is abundant animal life inside the park, including both rattlesnakes and mountain lions.

• Be sure to abide by all posted signs, as they are for your safety and for the preservation of the ecosystem and the beautify wildlife that resides in it.

• The park is open from 8 AM until a half hour after sunset, and there are no restrooms or wheelchair accessible features at this park…so plan on packing out everything you pack in and following the Leave No Trace principles to keep this place beautiful for all to enjoy.

Nearby Big Sur Places of Interest:

Calla Lily Valley

Sand Dollar Beach

Jade Cove

Limekiln State Park

Salmon Creek Falls

San Carpoforo Beach

Ragged Point Hike

McWay Falls

Bixby Bridge

In Summary & Behind the Blog Video

Thanks for joining me today and Garrapata State Park. For a virtual visit, see my Behind the Blog video below…and until next week I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.

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