Hike notes

Hike notes:
Black Cone Trail via Arroyo Seco Recreation Area
Marble Peak Trail, Horse Pasture Trail, Church Creek Trail, Pine Ridge Trail, Black Cone Trail, Marble Peak Trail, return

Round Trip: 38 miles
Map+Photos
Route metrics & trail conditions
Printable map

Overview

Attractions are narrow riparian canyons, ridgetops with views, large meadowed valleys, creeks, and rocky outcrops. Seldom visited (and a bit brushy) Black Cone Trail gives expansive views of upper Big Sur River.

Camps

Variety of camps (and use camps) along creeks and in meadows. Dispersed camping also possible. For water information check individual camp descriptions on interactive map.

Access

Parking at Arroyo Seco Recreation Area is $10/day.

Notes

Local Trail Conditions Map.

Sadly, conditions have continued to deterorate along the Black Cone Trail - now only for the hardy (and GPS recommended)

• Bridge over Arroyo Seco at east end of Marble Peak Trail washed away - fording on rocks north of bridge difficult, possible only in very dry conditions

• Expect significant brushy patchs on Black Cone Trail - best done with GPS track to avoid need to search for trail - for current conditions see • Crossing of Tassajara Creek can be impassable after heavy winter rains.
• Best done counter-clockwise so going downhill through brush on Black Cone Trail.

External Links - Hike Reports & Videos

(none yet - suggestions welcomed)