Day trip story
Plaskett Ridge, Big Sur Coast
The vibe
A good spot for a bonding retreat with friends, or an intimate camping trip with someone you love. It's a steep hill — without a 4-wheel-drive car and decently tall wheels, summiting it can be tough. There are established campsites scattered along the trail, reserved and spread out enough that everyone gets their own privacy. The later the night goes, the more the trail fills up — some people camp, some just park their cars and take in the view.
Story from the trip
"The morning we woke up here, we just looked out and saw the mountain, the trees, and the sun peeking in. Being off the internet, we were able to just hang out."
If you only had 3 hours
Head up to the TV Tower / Cuesta Ridge for the view and, if you're staying, to find a campsite along the trail.
On the way home, stop at Salmon Creek Falls.
Swing through Ragged Point — a cute little gas stop if you need one, but worth pulling over for the view either way.
Hidden gem
You don't have to summit the whole ridge for a good spot. There are established campsites right near the beginning of the trail too — reserved and spread out enough that you still get complete privacy.
Best food spot nearby
Hidden Kitchen, on the way back.
Who'd love this
People who are into nature-y sunsets — and want that without driving too far from SLO.
Bring
A 4-wheel-drive car with decently tall wheels. Without it, you may only make it to the very beginning of the trail — which still has good camping, just not the summit.
Watch out for
Animals — especially if you're bringing food along.