Highway 1 INTO BIG SUR IS OPEN
Your Road Trip Guide to the Ultimate California Highway 1 Adventure
Road Conditions
Access to Northern Big Sur:
Visitors can access hotels, restaurants and businesses in northern Big Sur. This portion of Highway 1, which was closed due to the Rocky Creek slip-out in Northern Big Sur, is now open and accessible. A 24/7 traffic light provides public access, with one-way alternating traffic in both northbound and southbound directions.
Access to Southern Big Sur:
Access to the southern part of Big Sur, including Treebones Resort and Gorda Springs Resort, is currently available via Highway 1, which comes north through San Luis Obispo County. As of Sunday, June 23, Highway 1 at Paul's Slide will reopen, meaning the southern turnaround point on Highway 1 is moving farther north. However, a 6.8-mile segment of Highway 1 remains closed due to ongoing repairs at Regent's Slide. Access from the northern part of Big Sur to southern Big Sur via Highway 1 is not open at this time.
For real-time updates and official resources, please follow Caltrans District 5 on Twitter (X) or visit the Regent’s Slide Removal page. Visit HOW 2 HWY 1 to plan the ultimate road trip adventure on Highway 1, no matter the current conditions or closures.
If you're visiting Monterey County and your plans are impacted by weather, use the See Monterey app to find alternative hotels, restaurants and activities. Before you go, please contact your hotel, restaurant or tour provider for more information and to confirm their hours of operation. Please be respectful, patient, and kind to all involved in your travels to Big Sur, as these hardworking teams are doing their best to ensure you have a great experience in their community.
Parking
Old Coast Road off Highway 1 at Bixby Bridge is a No Parking Zone. A parking citation fee will be issued to those who park illegally.
Public Lands Access
During the federal government shutdown, many national parks, forests, and BLM lands in Monterey County remain open, but services are limited.
- Pinnacles National Park: Trails and outdoor areas are accessible, but visitor centers, ranger programs, restrooms and maintenance may be closed or unstaffed.
- Fort Ord National Monument (BLM): Day-use access continues, though restrooms, parking areas and support services may be unavailable.
- Other federal lands: Expect reduced staffing, closed facilities and limited upkeep.
If you plan to visit, please follow The Right Path:
- Pack out all trash and minimize your footprint.
- Bring your own water, supplies and offline maps, as amenities may be closed.
- Respect posted closures and stay on designated trails.
- Consider exploring state, county and city parks, which remain fully open and staffed.
Together we can help protect these treasured spaces while enjoying them responsibly.
Park Closures
Parts of Los Padres National Forest are currently closed for storm damage repair. Violations are punishable by a fine of to up to $10,000. Visit the U.S. Forest Service for more information on the closures.
Please refer to individual county, state and national park websites for the latest updates and trail closures.
Wildfire Information
Wildfires predominantly occur in remote, forested areas away from population centers. It is important to follow all laws regarding open fires, camp only in designated areas, dispose of cigarettes properly and put out all fires in designated areas. Travelers should also have an emergency plan and follow any evacuation orders.
Wildfire RESOURCES
- Monterey County Office of Emergency Services - For active alerts in Monterey County
- West Coast Travel Facts - For real-time air quality readings, emergency resources and alternate itineraries for California
- Cal Fire and Incident Information - For fire status across California
- Caltrans - For road conditions
Travel Responsibly
As our destination welcomes visitors to enjoy our county, we ask that travelers visit responsibly and follow the safety precautions in place. Please practice the following guidelines:
- Leave No Trace: Pack it in, pack it out. Properly dispose of all trash. Help us keep Monterey County beautiful for generations to come.
- Camp Only at Designated Campsites: Monterey County has increased the fine for illegal camping in the area to $1,000 to help preserve the destination and protect against wildfires. This includes camping along Highway 1 passing through Big Sur and any side roads.
- Have a Plan: Have a backup plan in case the area you're looking to visit is overcrowded, fully booked or parking areas are full.
- Respect the Destination and Others: Monterey County is home to an amazing diversity of indigenous plants and animals. Leave natural objects as you find them, keep your distance from wildlife and be respectful of others so that everyone can enjoy our scenic destination.
Local/Regional Resources
- Monterey County Health Department
- Monterey County Office of Emergency Services
- Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula – Monterey, CA
- Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System – Salinas, CA
- Mee Memorial Hospital – King City, CA
- City of Monterey
- California Governor's Office of Emergency Services
For additional questions, please reach out to Info@SeeMonterey.com