Baldwin Ranch Road to North Buckeye Camp

This 31.4-mile route pieces together a number of trails in the Santa Lucia Range of Big Sur. It stays primarily on the west side of the range, keeping the ocean nearly in sight, and is a great route for some looking for an accessibly challenging way to explore some of the Big Sur area. Note that there is some significant elevation and the ever-present threat of poison oak. This route is an out-and-back from Baldwin Ranch Road to North Buckeye Camp, but one could arrange a shuttle at Salmon Creek Trailhead. The route begins on Baldwin Ranch Road, just off Highway 1 near Ragged Point. It is a dirt road that wastes no time in gaining elevation, steeply climbing into the mountains of the Santa Lucia Range. It descends from the crest to meet Dutra Creek, which it follows until meeting Spruce Creek Trail. Turkey Springs Camp is just about a mile up this trail, and Dutra Flat Campground is just under two miles from there. Spruce Creek Trail can be hidden in the grasses at times near the beginning of this junction, though it is oftentimes marked with cairns. The route joins Salmon Creek Trail at Salmon Creek under the often-foggy canopy. Descend Salmon Creek Trail until it reaches Highway 1, and then join the Buckeye Trail at the trailhead just north on the highway. It is a long, four-mile climb to meet North Buckeye Camp, but the trail is usually well-defined and the hiking is superb. Just watch out for poison oak. 

It is extremely important to note that trail conditions in Los Padres vary drastically from season to season and year to year. Check https://bigsurtrailmap.net/trailconditions.html for the most updated trail conditions and water reports, and please share your trip reports on the site upon your return so that everyone can safely explore this wonderful area. This area can be extremely dry and hot, as well as extremely wet and cold. Be prepared! Additionally, check https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/lospadres for current information and important updates in Los Padres National Forest. Consider donating to or volunteering with Ventana Wilderness Alliance in appreciation of these trails.