Outdoor & fun

Bottchers Gap

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Bottchers Gap serves as a primary access point for hikers and campers heading into the Ventana Wilderness. Located off Highway 1, this trailhead and campground provides a rustic basecamp for exploring the rugged backcountry of Big Sur. Visitors can park, set up camp, and embark on trails that wind through redwood forests and chaparral-covered slopes, with opportunities for multi-day treks. The site offers basic amenities like picnic tables and vault toilets, making it a popular spot for those seeking an authentic wilderness experience without the crowds of more developed parks.

Don't miss

  • Hike the Pine Ridge Trail to the Ventana Double Cone for panoramic views of the Big Sur coast.
  • Camp under the stars at the Bottchers Gap campground, a quiet alternative to busy state parks.
  • Explore the Ventana Wilderness backcountry, with trails leading to remote waterfalls and hot springs.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Bottchers Gap

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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