Partington Cove Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Cave · River/Creek · Views

Parking is along the highway's shoulders. The trailhead is hard to see as you drive past it, and only visible as you drive northwest (away from McWay Falls, towards Big Sur).

Starting from a crook in Highway 1, a few miles northwest of the McWay Falls overlook, this out-and-back trail descends to sea level.

Along the way it crosses a short pedestrian bridge and follows a short, straight, and unlit tunnel through the hill protecting the cove. I bought a headlamp, but didn't need it for the tunnel.

Two side paths leave the main route, but it's not hard to keep on the wide trail. At the end, you'll find a bench bolted to the rocky ground, safely away from the water.

A sign warns against swimming or wading — a warning to take seriously.