Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER
eight
Garrapata State Park & Point
Sur State Historic Park
Garrapata State Park
G
ARRAPATA
S
TATE
P
ARK
offers a scenic slice of the beauty and ruggedness we associ-
ate with Big Sur, where redwoods burrow deep within the folds of steep mountains that
abruptly rise above a rocky shoreline and wave-washed sandy beaches. On the north-
ern edge of the Big Sur coast, the park features 4 miles of coastline and spans 2879
acres between Andrew Molera State Park to the south and Point Lobos to the north.
Created in 1983, Garrapata is one of the more recent additions to the state park system
along the central California coast. Coastal and inland access and miles of hiking trails
promise numerous recreational opportunities.
Do heed tick warnings. In 1830, Spanish explorers were so exasperated by these
blood-sucking arachnids, they named the canyon and creek
Garrapata
(Spanish for
“tick”). Despite its unappealing name, the park shelters rich and diverse plant and
animal life. The terrain encompasses five vegetation zones: coastal scrub, chaparral,
redwood forest, riparian woodland, and mixed evergreen forest. From late December
through January and March through April, gray whales migrate along the coast—south
for the winter to Baja, then back north to arctic waters in spring, marking the longest
migratory route of any mammal in the world. Near the park's south end, Soberanes
Point offers a good vantage point for whale sightings.
As with the other state lands along the Big Sur coast, Garrapata limits trail and
road access to day use only, so if you're planning a visit, arrive early. There is no main
entrance or entrance fee. Access is via Highway 1 turnouts, which are often crowded
by midday in summer and on weekends. The climate is moderate year-round, with av-
erage temperatures between 50°F and 65°F. Weather varies from cool, damp fog to
strong onshore winds and the occasional warm, glorious day. Wear layered clothing
and be prepared for changing conditions. Fall promises more consistent, warm fogless
