Pine Ridge Trail

Pine Ridge Trail (USFS Trail #3E06) is the Ventana Wilderness’s most-used long backcountry hiking route in the Los Padres National Forest. A full traverse is commonly described as about 19.5 miles to ~23 miles depending on exact route/turnoffs, and it runs west–east through dense chaparral, mixed hardwood ridges and meadows, and the redwood-shaded Big Sur River corridor.

The trail is managed for backpacking and day hikes and is tied into a string of river-corridor camps, including Terrace Creek, Barlow Flat, Redwood, and Sykes. The Big Sur Station area is a primary western entry point, and the eastern end connects toward China Camp at Tassajara Road.

Expect a strenuous hike even for experienced hikers: elevation gain/loss is substantial, and passage can involve multiple river crossings to reach the backcountry camps along the Big Sur River. In winter or after heavy rain, crossings can become impossible or dangerous, and Sykes Hot Springs may be inaccessible during or after periods of high water.

Trail character changes across the corridor. The western half is repeatedly described as redwood-shaded and streamside around Terrace Creek, Barlow, Sykes, and Redwood, while the eastern portion trends more montane with conifers and mixed hardwood forested ridges and meadows at camps like Pine Ridge, Divide, and Pine Valley.

Seasonally, the route is run year-round, but river-crossing conditions are the controlling factor for access to the Sykes Hot Springs area. For trips involving Sykes Hot Springs, plan around high-water periods and be ready to adjust if crossings shut down.

Logistics for overnight travel are shaped by designated camps along the route and posted occupancy limits. A CA Campfire Permit is required for operating a small gas/propane stove or having a campfire, and the Big Sur Station Visitor Center parking area uses a per-day fee structure (with $10 per calendar day cited).

The trail’s construction history traces to 1916, when it was built by the Post family of Big Sur; it’s also described as a wilderness gateway used by backcountry travelers for accessing the Big Sur River corridor camps and for longer loop trips.

More information: Wikipedia, Visitor information, Ventana Wilderness Forums - Pine Ridge Trail