trails - pch

southern california is amazing, but driving up the coastline to the northern cities is by far my favorite adventure in this state! i recently ventured up to the city of carmel by way of highway 101 and pch. magical! i’ve done this trip a few times. sometimes it takes 6 hours, sometimes it takes 12.

northbound on pch

the trek:

- jump on the 101 until you get to xxx; yes the coastline is beautiful at the channel islands and santa barbara, but this route is fairly coastal and avoids heavy traffic areas and farmlands

- plan a rest stop at avila valley barn in xxx and pick up some homemade ice cream or local apple cider

avila valley barn

- tour hearst castle in san simeon; be sure to book your tour online in advance

- head 12 miles up the road to the elephant seal sanctuary

- stretch your legs on the waterfall hike at ragged point inn

- grab some sustenance at big sur bakery; be sure you make it there before 4pm, they close early!

- enjoy the beauty of julia pfiefer state park

- check out more trails at andrew molina state park

- grab a shot of the famous bixby bridge

bixby bridge

- take in the monterey coastline at point lobos

- book a whale watch in monterey

- circle back and snuggle into a bed & breakfast in carmel

total distance (from los angeles):

travel time: 6 – 12 hours, depending on stops and traffic

difficulty: peaceful, scenic driving at its best

the tips: call the dot news update line to find out if pch is closed along your route before you hit the road.