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.
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.
McWay Cove and McWay Falls are two of the most beautiful parts of the Big Sur Coast of California. Located along scenic Highway 1, it is worth getting out of your car and taking a look. You will never forget it.
Stunning
The description reads true: This short hike will give you some of the most stunning views in all of Big Sur for the least amount of effort.
The views truly are spectacular, but this isn't a true "hike" at all. The view alone deserves 5 stars, but the "hike" wouldn't merit a rating.
wow just wow. This made my lucky number 50 of 50 waterfalls in 365 days wanderlust list. My husband found this one for me during the planning of an epic oregon-california road trip. It is quite beautiful given it dumps into the ocean one of only 3 i believe in the US. You cannot get to the beach or bottom of the falls. It is more a view from above and across . The views are postcard worthy. epic. flip flop type walk no special gear needed just some water.
Tom E.
Very pretty falls. Water colors are brighter blue than expected. Could not hike the trail as state had closed the park for fire hazard.
Short hike but is on everyone Instagram. When do ever see a waterfall that leads into the ocean
Short, easy walk. Overlook is well worth it!
Love this easy easy hike with great views. Limited parking and lots of people on the trail.
short hike, but well worth the trip. Beautiful views!
Short, but absolutely breath taking!