Discover The Magic Of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park 

Have you ever seen jaw-dropping natural beauty, the kind that makes you really sit back and appreciate all that the world has to offer? If so, you’re in luck because, within California’s Big Sur coastline, you can find just that in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. If you’ve never heard of this park, grab your boots, bring your camera, and get ready to experience magic unlike any other. Today we will discuss the park in greater detail, and highlight the true star of the show–McWay Falls. Let’s dive in!

The Name Behind The Park

In order to truly appreciate the park, we start by explaining who the park is named after. Julia Pfeiffer Burns was a pioneer woman who had deep roots in the Big Sur area. As a cattle rancher and outdoor enthusiast, it only seems fitting that this area was named after her. Spanning over 3,700 acres, the park presents incredible mixes of redwood groves, dramatic cliffs, and the Pacific Ocean.

McWay Falls

The true highlight of the area is none other than McWay Falls, and honestly, it’s the reason many people stop by the park in the first place. The 80-foot waterfall is a stunning sight to behold, flowing from the cliffs into the undergrowth below. It can be accessed by a short hike on a trail known as the McWay Waterfall Trail, taking you to the sweeping view of the falls. Additionally, you can see views of the turquoise cove and the dramatic cliffs that frame the scene. 

Make sure to go during sunset, as the golden light enhances the area, and makes it a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

The Park

Although McWay Falls steals the spotlight, we can’t overlook the state park that it is situated on. If you’re craving a bit of adventure, check out one of the several hiking trails that take you deeper into the forest of the park. The most popular trail is by far the Ewoldsen Trail, which gives a challenging but rewarding hike. Here you can see views of towering trees and glimpses of the ocean beyond.

For those who love looking at wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for gray whales in the ocean during migration season. Additionally, several species of birds flock the skies, including ones such as the White-throated Swift and Belted Kingfisher. Sea otters bob through the waves, and if you’re lucky, you might just see a condor take to the skies. At night, stargazing is a must, so bring your binoculars and soak in the beauty all around you.

Tips For Your Visit

In order to truly experience the best of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, we’ve compiled a list of recommendations:

• Plan ahead: During peak seasons, the park can get crowded, making parking a rare commodity. Plan on arriving early to get a closer parking spot.
• Leave no trace: In order to keep the park open for years to come, respect the trails by picking up after yourselves. Additionally, keep a safe distance from wildlife so as to not disrupt their natural habitat.
• Bring snacks and water: There aren’t any places near the trails to get any food or water, so come prepared by bringing your own.

Come and Explore

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is more than just a day trip–it is a reflection of how breathtaking and diverse nature can be. Whether you’re gazing at McWay Falls, wandering through the redwood forests, or simply taking in the views of the ocean, this park has a way of deeply connecting you with the world.

So, what are you waiting for? Add the park to your buckeye list and experience it for yourselves! Trust us, it is not a sight you can afford to miss.