PROs plan ahead and prepare for a backpacking trip into the Big Sur backcountry. By getting ready for the Pine Ridge Trail (PRT) before you leave town, you will better protect yourself, natural resources, and the safety of the local community.

• Use of a campfire is NOT permitted most of the year. Don’t count on one for warmth or cooking. For current fire restrictions and more click here.
• Click here for a permit which is required to use a stove or a campfire (when allowed).
• Be prepared for extreme weather and emergencies — help may be a long way off and there is no cell phone service in the backcountry.
• Bear canisters are recommended to store food and other stinky items. Bring your own trash bags to pack out ALL your waste.
• PROs keep their group size small (4 or fewer).
• PROs know the hiking capabilities of their group when planning the itinerary. Click here to download the PRT Elevation and Distance Profile.

• Be sure to pay for parking at the “iron ranger” at the entrance to the parking lot. The fee is $10/day (not per night). Bring cash/check or pay with a credit/debit card at the Big Sur Station (open 9 am - 4 pm).
• Please complete a Wilderness Self-Issue Permit at the PRT trailhead.

PROs respect that fire safety is a big deal in Big Sur. The smallest mistake can lead to a wildfire that ruins lives, property, businesses, natural resources, and public access to public lands. Don’t be the camping amateur that ruins it for everyone.

• Fire Restrictions prohibiting campfires are in place most of the year.
• Even when campfires are permitted, consider reducing your impact by not having one.

Here’s how to have a campfire
when they are permitted.

• Minimize impacts by only using existing fire rings. Do not build up fire rings or create new ones.
• Keep fires small. Only use sticks on the ground that can be broken by hand. PRO Tip: Use sticks that are no longer or wider than your forearm.
• Tend your fire like a boss. If you are not watching it, douse it.
• Use water (not rocks or dirt) to put your fire DEAD OUT. PROs know to test the ashes with their hands to make sure they are out COLD.

The Big Sur River is designated by Congress as a Wild and Scenic River. Help protect this special waterway. Your number two is a number one problem on the PRT. Here’s how to do-do it right at a place with no janitorial service.

• GO TO THE CAN. Use the wilderness toilets provided. Do not put anything else in the toilet but your poo. Pack out your used TP.
• GO FAR. If a camp’s toilet is full or unavailable, do your business at least 200 feet from any water source. GO DEEP. Bury your waste at least 6 inches down. Always pack out your soiled toilet paper.
• GO PRO. Use “wag bags”. This space age invention allows you to “collect waste samples” and transport them out to be disposed in the trash. They really work!
• Remember to bury or pack out your dog’s poop, too. Their doo is toxic to wildlife.

• Bring your own trash bags and take out ALL waste, including toilet paper, personal hygiene products, food scraps, pet waste, etc
• Do not put soap of any kind in the river. Wash yourself and your dishes as far from the river as possible.
• PROs leave the PRT better than they found it.