Hiking in Big Sur
Hello,
This is my first blog about the hiking I do regularly with Ava, my 4 year old German Shepherd dog.
Big Sur Hiking and Lodging trip, with my blockhead (Ava ;), September, 2011. Perfect time of the year to go. Not much traffic and peaceful.
I love traveling and hiking with my dog. California has many places to offer the experience you are looking for and adventure.
On a way to Big Sur, we planned to stop for one night in Cambria to relax and check out this town we haven't been to(south of Big Sur). The first stop we made was at Estero Bluff State Park in San Luis Obispo County (south of Cambria). It's right on the beach and Ava and I were allowed to enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a break from a car ride. After this perfect resting stop, we arrived in Cambria,CA to check in our hotel at the Sea Otter Inn and were very pleased with our welcome stay (dogs are welcome here) and a delicious breakfast in the morning (complimentary). We saw sea otters and sea lions swimming at Cambria beach, and Ava wanted to swim with one, but we didn't want to disturb or allowed into the nature. However the squirrels were quite playful and entertaining under the wooden walkway path.
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This is my first blog about the hiking I do regularly with Ava, my 4 year old German Shepherd dog.
Big Sur Hiking and Lodging trip, with my blockhead (Ava ;), September, 2011. Perfect time of the year to go. Not much traffic and peaceful.
I love traveling and hiking with my dog. California has many places to offer the experience you are looking for and adventure.
On a way to Big Sur, we planned to stop for one night in Cambria to relax and check out this town we haven't been to(south of Big Sur). The first stop we made was at Estero Bluff State Park in San Luis Obispo County (south of Cambria). It's right on the beach and Ava and I were allowed to enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a break from a car ride. After this perfect resting stop, we arrived in Cambria,CA to check in our hotel at the Sea Otter Inn and were very pleased with our welcome stay (dogs are welcome here) and a delicious breakfast in the morning (complimentary). We saw sea otters and sea lions swimming at Cambria beach, and Ava wanted to swim with one, but we didn't want to disturb or allowed into the nature. However the squirrels were quite playful and entertaining under the wooden walkway path.
On the second day drove to Big Sur. While getting there, stop by the Salmon Creek Trail on PCH. It offers beautiful views of coastline and has running water creek to keep you and your fido cool on hot days. Once we arrived to Big Sur we got comfortable at the Riverside Campground & Cabins, Cabin #2. Cabin #2 has a private deck, Ava and I loved it. The campground located on Big Sur river. Of course Ava wanted to go the first day jumping in it to swim and so we/she did.
The next day stumbled upon Ventana Wilderness, Pine Ridge Trail. We hiked about 6-8 miles round trip and discovered, 10 miles one way can take us to campsite with Hot Springs. So this will be added to our next trip. Ventana Wilderness was amazing, Ava stayed on trail for most of the hike but few spots were little scary off the cliff, so this trail would be recommended for experienced people and dog hikers.
On a way back to LA, one hour after leaving Big Sur we discovered Sand Dollar Beach (dog friendly off leash beach park) and apparently good surfing spot. Amazing views and great swimming. Ava is big on surfing so she did. Great stop to let your fido and yourself to stretch before getting back in the car.
2 more hours driving after Sand Dollar Beach, we stopped near by Cambria to see the Sea Elephant migration and the King himself. If you have 5 mins and the viewing is open, please take a break and experience this.
So back home and everyone is pretty happy. Took Ava for a walk the next day, I think she is sore and tired from the adventure. It was a short walk, she is pooped from all the excitement and adventure we had.
Big Sur Picture Gallery
Next trip will be to Mammoth in December, 2011 ;)