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United States
California
Monterey County

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Easy hikes and walks in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

4.6

(21)

441

hikers

12

hikes

Easy hiking trails in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park traverse a landscape characterized by dramatic coastal bluffs, ancient redwood forests, and diverse ecosystems. The region features sweeping ocean panoramas and unique natural attractions like waterfalls cascading directly onto secluded beaches. Hikers can explore a mix of coastal scrub, chaparral, and towering redwood groves. Elevations generally remain accessible for easy routes.

Best easy hiking trails in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Partington Cove Trail…

Last updated: July 8, 2026

5.0

(6)

95

hikers

#1.

Partington Cove Trail

1.49km

00:27

30m

90m

Embark on an easy hike along the Partington Cove Trail, a short 0.9-mile (1.5 km) route that takes about 27 minutes to complete. You will descend through a peaceful grove…

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Easy

13

hikers

4.34km

01:20

150m

150m

Hike the Partington Cove Trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, an easy 2.7-mile route with coastal views and a historic tunnel.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

The tour of your life – music trails on the Pacific coast

Other adventures in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

The tour of your life – music trails on the Pacific coast

Hiking Collection by

VisitTheUSA

Tips from the Community

Daniel Gilge
February 13, 2025, Tunnel to McWay Falls

Tunnel under the road from the parking lots to the waterfall. On my photo at sunset.

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A beautiful view point for that waterfall. The furthest point you could get on the trail. At this point it was closed because of rotten path fastening. Beautiful place to view sunsets in winter time.

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This State Park is mostly popular because of the stunning 80-foot waterfall of McWay Creek that rushes onto the beach and into the ocean. The park is dedicated to and named after Julia Pfeiffer who grew up in the Big Sur region and later married fellow homesteader John Burns. The two worked as cattle rancher on Saddle Rock Ranch between 1915 and 1928 until Julia died. There are picnic benches and vault toilets at the trailhead. For an extended hike, there are some trails leading into the surrounding hills of the State Park.

3

0

Traveler
October 3, 2024, Hiking Tunnel

Formerly used to transport redwood logs to shipping

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Stunning viewpoint to a waterfall spilling onto a gorgeous Pacific beach. Impressive coastal views out to the ocean.

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Sue
September 2, 2023, Partington Cove Tunnel

This tunnel is 60 feet long and provides access to Partington Cove. It is only 6.5 feet tall and seven feet wide, and as you make your way through, you will see the light that leads to one of the most beautiful and serene coves the Pacific has to offer.

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After exiting the tunnel, there is a nice bench where you can see the remains of pier footings on the rocks. This is a wonderful spot to enjoy the sounds of the ocean and take some beautiful photos.

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This secluded cove that is wild is definitely worth a visit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park?

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers 5 easy hiking trails, perfect for those seeking accessible outdoor experiences amidst stunning coastal and forest scenery.

What are the main natural features I can expect to see on an easy hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park?

Easy hikes in the park often feature dramatic coastal bluffs, ancient redwood forests, and sweeping ocean panoramas. You can also find unique attractions like McWay Fall, an iconic 80-foot waterfall cascading onto a secluded beach, and various coastal viewpoints such as View of McWay Fall and Condor Big Sur coastal viewpoint 🌊.

Are there any easy trails that lead to waterfalls?

Yes, you can easily access views of the iconic McWay Falls. The View of McWay Falls – Tunnel to McWay Falls loop from Big Sur is an easy 0.6-mile path offering accessible views of this spectacular waterfall.

Can I find any circular easy routes in the park?

Yes, there are several circular easy routes. For instance, the Tunnel to McWay Falls – View of McWay Falls loop from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a 1.2-mile loop that takes you through coastal viewpoints. Another option is the Partington Cove – Partington Cove Coastal View loop from Partington Cove, which is 1.1 miles long.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park?

The easy trails in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 20 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the majestic redwood forests, and the accessibility of routes like those leading to McWay Falls.

Are there any easy trails that explore historical sites or unique natural formations?

Yes, the Partington Cove Trail is an easy 2.7-mile route that leads to a historic cove. Here, you can explore a hand-carved tunnel and a rocky beach, which was once a tanbark shipping port.

What is the typical length and duration for easy hikes in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park?

Easy hikes in the park vary in length, generally ranging from 0.6 miles to just under 3 miles. For example, the View of McWay Falls – Tunnel to McWay Falls loop from Big Sur is 0.6 miles, while the Partington Cove Trail is 2.7 miles. Durations can range from about 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the route and your pace.

Is Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park suitable for family-friendly easy hikes?

Absolutely. The park's easy trails, such as those providing views of McWay Falls, are generally short and well-maintained, making them suitable for families with children. The diverse scenery, from waterfalls to redwoods, offers engaging experiences for all ages.

What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the easy trails?

The park's diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife. While hiking, you might spot native vegetation, coastal scrub, and chaparral. From coastal viewpoints, you may see elephant seals and whales during migration season. The park is also home to threatened and endangered species like peregrine falcons, California condors, and southern sea otters.

Are there any specific considerations for visiting Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, such as permits or parking?

For detailed information regarding permits, parking, and any current park alerts or closures, it's always best to check the official California State Parks website. You can find up-to-date visitor information at parks.ca.gov.

What is the best time of year to visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for easy hikes?

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers beautiful hiking conditions year-round. However, spring and fall often provide the most pleasant weather with mild temperatures and clear skies, ideal for enjoying both the coastal views and redwood forests. Summer can be popular, while winter might bring more rain but also lush landscapes.

Are there any easy trails that offer views of the towering redwood trees?

While the more strenuous Ewoldsen Trail is known for its ancient redwoods, many easy trails in the park traverse areas where you can still experience the grandeur of these towering trees. The park is characterized by a blend of coastal and forested ecosystems, ensuring you'll encounter impressive flora even on shorter, easier walks.

Most popular routes in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Hiking in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

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