Overlook Trail to McWay Falls and Saddle Rock is a 1 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Big Sur, California that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips and is best used from September until December.
kid friendly
hiking
nature trips
walking
beach
views
waterfall
wildlife
no dogs
This short hike will give you some of the most stunning views in all of Big Sur for the least amount of effort. The 1-mile out-and-back hike leads you to a trail on the cliffs along the coast. At the viewpoint you can see McWay Falls pouring down on the sandy beach below in McWay cove. As of May 2018, some users have reported closures along this trail.
very short.
Not really a hike and personally think the view is SLIGHTLY over rated.
Jim R.
The beach is a beautiful crescent, very scenic, and seeing the very small waterfall splashing directly onto the beach is an unusual sight. But on the downside, you can’t actually get down to the beach to see it up close, and it’s incredibly crowded (we went in late July). The view of the beach from the road is actually better than from the trail, because half of the trail was closed off due to instability of cliff face. There is a huge logjam of people at the place where the trail is closed. The walk from trailhead to turnaround is less than 10 min. Don’t even bother with the day use parking, it’s always full. There is ample parking on road, but make sure you don’t cross the white line at side of lane. Two rangers were out giving tickets to any car that was parked over the line. Access the trailhead from the entrance to day use parking. You cross under the road through a short tunnel. Note that there is no cell service in Big Sur so download local maps in advance.
It’s not a hike, more like a walk but my goodness is it beautiful and worth the stop!
Great views of the coast! Super easy walk! Loved it! (Definitely not a hike)
Agree with previous reviewer; this is more a short walk on a dirt road to the falls than a hike. Most of the trail was closed when I went on it. Fine enough if you're passing through but nothing special to make a specific trip out.
This isn't really a hike so much as a quick walk from the car to an overlook point. Still awesome! Amazing view and 100% worth it.
Unreal views
gorgeous views!
You can park on Highway 1. Went on a weekday around 11-12 and had no trouble finding a spot right in front. 200 steps and I was at the overlook spot. Good for kids. No dogs allowed!
Tried to go yesterday and the trail was closed. You can walk out to a bluff above, still allowing for great photos since it's empty below so I still recommend walking out, but if you're looking to hike down, it is currently closed.
Super easy and quick trail w amazing views
One of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen.
Awesome view of the falls. Easy hike. Was crowded on a Saturday afternoon as one would expect.
Great views here and only a mile or so to get there from trail entrance
Crowded but sublime.
Crowded... but a very nice, iconic view, definitly worth the stop...very friendly to non athletic types...sidenote: you can just park on the hwy instead of going into the parking lot...fyi
Unfortunately it was very foggy today and thus we could not see the ocean or the waterfall. The walk was a leisurely and lovely ( not sure I would call it a hike). Looking forward to trying it again when the day is more clear!
Very easy hike to see a beautiful view. Cool for stopping by.
Saw whales! More of a stroll - effort exerted to avoid crowds on Saturday of long weekend
A real beauty, super short opportunity to see a beautiful little cove with a waterfall, with very little effort. If you’re looking for a nice hike with some distance, this isn’t it. But for gorgeous pictures and views, this one is hard to beat.
NOTE: Cell service along the PCH around Big Sur is basically nonexistent. Do all your research first, because your phone won’t help you with navigation in getting to the park.
Short trail but incredible end
Super easy trail and short. Million dollar views, we couldn't take a bad picture.
Bucket List quality view. Must see.
Stunning views - very easy, recommend it after coming from Ewoldsen Trial
Couple years ago
Breath taken beautiful,easy walking in traffic.