Big Sur Backpacking

Apr 24 - Apr 26, 2026

$140

Drive up the newly opened Highway 1 and check out some Big Sur natural hot springs! Join us for an adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Ventana Wilderness, starting with sweeping ocean views from dramatic sea cliffs high above the Pacific. We’ll hike into the mountains beneath ancient redwoods, discovering hidden natural hot springs tucked away in the forest. After a day of exploration, unwind with a soak in warm mineral pools surrounded by wilderness and fresh air.

This is your chance to experience the wild beauty of Big Sur—right in our own backyard.

Skill Level: Moderate

Activity Level: Intermediate

Trip Highlights

  • Guided hiking and exploration
  • Coastal marine life including elephant seals
  • Relaxing in natural, hidden forrest hot springs
  • Panoramic ocean views on the iconic Big Sur Highway 1 coastline

Details

Meet at the Recreation Center Friday afternoon to depart for San Simeon; transportation provided by ASI. Stop along the drive for dinner at a local restaurant of the group’s choosing. Camp for one night at the San Simeon Creek Campground. On Saturday, head north to backpack into Sykes Camp for overnight camping—be prepared to backpack 10 miles in the day. Spend the day hiking before enjoying the natural hot springs and settling into camp for the night. Enjoy a meal around a campfire with new friends. Pack-up camp and backpack back to the car Sunday. Along the drive home, stop at the Elephant Seal Vista and a local restaurant for a meal before heading back to campus.

What's Included

  • Transportation to and from campus.
  • Basic instruction
  • Tents
  • Group gear: pots, pans, stoves, food storage, water filters, first aid kits, GPS, camp tools, sunscreen.
  • Meals: Saturday breakfast, lunch, and dinner; Sunday breakfast and lunch. Snacks provided each day.

What to Bring

  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad
  • Backpacking backpack
  • Headlamp
  • Bowl, mug, eating utensils
  • 2 hard-sided water bottles
  • Toiletries and personal medications
  • Hiking boots
  • Camp shoes (closed toe)
  • Layers to keep warm
  • Rain jacket
  • Swimsuit
  • Sunscreen, sunhat, and sunglasses
  • Credit card/money for meals on the road; dinner on Friday and Sunday
  • Personal snacks
  • An extensive gear list will be provided at the mandatory pre-trip meeting. Trip leaders will contact participants in advance.
Need Rental Equipment?

The Poly Escapes Rental Center at the Cal Poly Recreation Center has the gear you need for your next adventure! Explore our selection online, then visit the Rental Center to equip your trip.

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