Pine Ridge Trail to Sykes Hot Springs- Big Sur, CA

This is a 20 mile trek (out and back) into Big Sur wilderness. The hike begins at Ventana Wilderness Area Ranger Station literally off of highway 1. There is a backpacker parking lot (5$/day) at the station, but come early as the spots were filled when we got there. You can also park along side the highway. The hike goes along the hillsides in and out of redwood forests that look like are recovering from a forest fire in the last ten years. There are many bends and curves and ups and downs, but nothing too steep. The path is clear and mostly dirt and granite. The spring flowers are beautiful and I counted about 16 different types of flowering plants. You pass a few campgrounds along the way. You also pass a few creeks. The creeks were low and not a problem when we went. The final creek is slightly larger and will force you to either take your shoes off, find a log to crawl over or rock jump. At this point, you are basically at Sykes Springs. You can camp to the left or right. You can tell where others have camped before. There were probably 40 people camping when we arrived. Don't expect seclusion. We chose to go to the springs in the morning hoping there would be fewer people. There are no signs so go left when you arrive at the river/creek. Go about 15 minutes following the river flow. The springs will be on the left side. There about 4 or 5 little pools perfect for two. Follow the smell of rotten eggs. Expect the unexpected... we ran into a naked pair and another in the process of proposal with the ring out! We were pleasantly surprised by hot tub like hot springs with a view of the river! April, 2013