Big Sur River Conditions

CROSSING REPORTS

Your capabilities and actual conditions determine any crossing attempt !

These reports from hikers of varying capability are only planning guidelines.
Flow varies diurnally, with lowest flow in early morning.
Pole(s) or stick can greatly aid a crossing attempt.
River crossing tips and techniques

Pine Ridge Trail Click to show/hide

Help others in the hiking community by reporting your experience,
submitting a VWA Trail Report or posting to Trailmap Forum

Gauge Flow	Big Sur River Pine Ridge Trail Crossings	Report
160 cfs	Barlow Flat Camp: Knee deep	Mar.26,2024
160 cfs	Sykes Camp: Waist deep	Mar.26,2024
180 cfs	Sykes Camp: Waist deep	Mar.23,2024
190 cfs	Barlow Flat Camp: Knee to mid‑thigh	Feb.16,2024
215 cfs	Barlow Flat Camp: Mid‑thigh, tricky	Mar.16,2024
220 cfs	Barlow Flat Camp: Above knee, swift flow	Feb.8,2025 VWR patrol
~270 cfs	Sykes Camp: Waist deep	Feb.27,2024
350 cfs	Barlow Flat Camp: Waist deep	Mar.9,2024

Note: Barlow Flat Camp east crossing easier than west crossing

Big Sur Trail Click to show/hide

Help others in the hiking community by reporting your experience,
submitting a VWA Trail Report or posting to Trailmap Forum

Gauge Flow	North & South Fork - Big Sur River Big Sur Trail Crossings	Report
>350 cfs	Difficult	Experience Leor Pantilat
>500-600 cfs	Hazardous	Experience Leor Pantilat

South Fork Trail Click to show/hide

Help others in the hiking community by reporting your experience,
submitting a VWA Trail Report or posting to Trailmap Forum

Gauge Flow	South Fork - Big Sur River South Fork Trail Crossings	Report
215 cfs	Shin to Knee deep, not difficult	Mar.16,2024 Scott Frake

Will add more reports as they become available