Hike notes: 
Carrizo Loop
Carrizo Trail, Carrizo-CookSpring Connector Trail, North Coast Ridge Trail, Arroyo Seco Trail

Round Trip: 17 miles, 3900 ft.gain
Map+Photos 
Route metrics & trail conditions 
Printable map 

Attractions are surrounding rock formations, views of Junipero Serra Peak (aka Santa Lucia Peak) and exposed-rock valley below, sections with sugar pines and Santa Lucia fir, and views to coast including Cone Peak.  Can combine with dayhike to Cone Peak (see Carrizo Spring Camp to Cone Peak Photomap) for even more expansive views. 

Variety of camps, all under trees except Carrizo Spring Camp and Forks Usecamp. . Dispersed camping also possible.  For water information check individual camp descriptions on interactive map.

Road access is lengthy, subject to closure in winter with heavy rains at South Del Venturi ford (controlled by Fort Hunter-Liggett).  Vehicles with higher access can drive dirt access road as far as possible toward trailhead just beyond bridge spanning San Antonio River.  Park only in grass-free areas, to prevent exhaust system induced fires - violaters are subject to citation.

• Arroyo Seco crossings can become hazardous after heavy rains. 
• Can reduce hiking distance by 1.0 mile by using Carrizo-CookSpring Connector Trail, but this would skip view of Cone Peak - to get also view, continue 100 ft beyond Carrizo-CookSpring Connector Trail junction to ridgetop, then return. 
• Can reduce loop hiking distance by utilizing Carrizo Usetrail, but that is often obscure and requires navigation skils or GPS. 

(none yet - suggestions welcomed)

Local Trail Conditions Map
Big Sur hiking information