Popular Big Sur trail to reopen after 13-year closure

75756A5E-120A-4932-810C-2FD980DB785E

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A popular Big Sur trail flanked by redwood trees that leads down through a gorge to a 60-foot waterfall is set to open Friday after a 13-year closure.

A 2008 wildfire destroyed access to the Pfeiffer Falls Trail.

The Pfeiffer Falls Trail in California’s Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park on June 1, 2021. The reopening of the Pfeiffer Falls Trail in 2021 is the first time that this Monterey County hiking trail will be open to the public since the Basin Complex Fire destroyed the popular tourist destination in 2008.
The Pfeiffer Falls Trail in California’s Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park on June 1, 2021. The reopening of the Pfeiffer Falls Trail in 2021 is the first time that this Monterey County hiking trail will be open to the public since the Basin Complex Fire destroyed the popular tourist destination in 2008. Photo credit Max Whittaker/ Courtesy of Save the Redwoods League

Officials said Monday that the trail is ready for the public to enjoy after a $2 million renovation that fixed bridges, retaining walls, railings, steps and signage.

To protect sensitive habitat, California State Parks and Save the Redwoods League officials replaced more than 4,150 square feet of asphalt and concrete and seven stream crossings.

In their place, they built a 70-foot-long pedestrian bridge that spans the Pfeiffer Redwood Creek ravine and offers dramatic views.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Max Whittaker/ Courtesy of Save the Redwoods League