Tanbark Trail to Tin House (Big Sur) with lunch at Nepenthe

~7.6 miles, 2000 ft elevation gain

Tanbark Trail to Tin House out & back
Distance: ~7.6 miles round trip
Elevation gain: ~2,023 ft
Difficulty: Moderate+
Trail type: Loop (or out and back)
Start time: 10am
The Tanbark Trail to Tin House Loop is one of those coastal gems that offers redwood and creekside serenity, amazing ocean views, and a touch of “Wait, someone built this here?” all in one go.
Trailhead: The trailhead is situated along Highway 1, approximately 9 miles south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and about 2 miles north of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Look for a large pullout on the inland (east) side of the highway, directly across from the gated entrance to Partington Cove.
[https://maps.app.goo.gl/K8wd6UvfAtLkmS2y9 ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/K8wd6UvfAtLkmS2y9)
Parking: As there are only about 8-10 spots at the trailhead at Partington Cove turnout on Hwy 1 – (unmarked, but directly across from Partington Ridge Road), best to fit as many into cars as possible. About 6 miles before the trailhead, just below Nepenthe restaurant (where we are eating lunch which is located at 48510 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920), there is a large, long pull off where people could meet and consolidate into a few cars.
The Trail: We’ll begin on the Tanbark Trail, climbing steadily along a creek through a shaded canyon with redwoods, tanoak, and bay laurel. Then up a few switchbacks to get the heart pumping, with view/photo pauses along the way.
After about 3 miles, the trail emerges onto a ridge with sweeping views of the Big Sur coastline. From here, we’ll arrive at the Tin House, an abandoned sheet-metal relic built during WWII out of recycled gas station parts — yes, really.
Then we return on the same trail (out and back) - with great coastal views. Although much is shaded, always good to bring a hat and sunscreen, water and poles- and layers, Big Sur can be hot or foggy/cool. .
TRAILHEAD: Partington Cove turnout on Hwy 1 (unmarked, but directly across from Partington Ridge Road)
POST-HIKE LUNCH OPTION:
They weren’t taking reservations at the Tin House, so after the hike, we’ll regroup for a casual lunch at Nepenthe, a Big Sur classic perched on the cliffs just a few miles up the road. They don’t take reservations here either - it’s first come first served, but has a great deck to relax while we wait.

For arranging carpools: https://www.groupcarpool.com/t/26bdcu
Trail map: tan bark

Attendance: If you are signed up for a hike, or on the waitlist, please remove yourself to the "not going " list as soon as you become unsure about attending, so another waitlister can have adequate notice that they are going. Also, it is not okay to just show up to a hike you are not listed as "going" to.

IOPQ: What is the best view you've ever experienced on a hike?

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Disclaimer: The South Bay Over 50 Social Hiking Group and its event organizer and members are not responsible for your safety. Outdoor activities are inherently dangerous. By signing up for these events, you agree to release the South Bay Over 50 Social Hiking Group and its event organizer and members from any responsibility, liability, or claim in law or in equity. If you don't agree to these terms, DO NOT join this meetup event. The South Bay Over 50 Social Hiking Group does not certify the expertise of its event organizer - I am a volunteer. All hike distances, routes and elevation gains are approximations and can vary from time to time. You are responsible for yourself. Please come prepared with appropriate hiking shoes, poles, hat, sunscreen, first aid, food, gear, electrolytes, and water. You should consult your physician if you have any medical conditions that might limit your ability to engage in this type of activity.