Pat Springs via Skinners Ridge

Backpacking to Pat Springs is a way to see Big Sur and the San Lucia mountains from a perspective that few get to experience. The Ventana Wilderness is rugged and remote, yet Pat Springs is one of the most beautiful campgrounds around that will allow you to take in this amazing terrain. 

To get to Pat Springs, you will hike along Skinners Ridge. The Trailhead is at the Bottchers Gap campground which is about 15-20 minutes up into the mountains off the world famous Highway 1 (PCH). When you get to Bottchers Gap, take a second to check the map again, take a few photos, and let the camp master know that you're headed out. 

At almost 7 miles long one-way and with 1400 feet of elevation change, this hike should not be considered easy. The strongest hiker will make it in 4.5 to 5 hours, but I suggest taking your time as the scenery is beautiful and you spend most of your time ascending. There are plenty of summits, fields, vistas, and trees to break and enjoy the view. 

This is not a hard trail to navigate. There is ample signage pointing to Pat Springs and the trail is easy to follow. I still suggest bringing a map, especially if you want to venture off trail or past the campsite. 

An important note once you get to the confusing 4-way intersection on the trail. On the trail that comes from Bottchers gap and going count-clockwise, the trails lead to 1) Ventana Double-Cone 2) Water 3) The Campsites. Thus, turn right to get to the campsites. 

Here's a veteran's tip when choosing a campground: You'll come across the first campsite that does not appear too inviting. Pass this one. You'll ascend about 50 yards more to the first campground on the ridge. It's beautiful, yes, but push forward. The second site is a bit better. Again, push forward. The best two sites in Pat Springs (and some of the best campsites I've ever seen) are the third and fourth. The 3rd is just a little bit past the second and is a bit smaller than the previous two, but has the best setup. The fourth is about a 15-minute walk past the third, is much more secluded, and also has a beautiful meadow and view that the other three do not have. 

If you're up for it, use Pat Springs as a base camp to summit Ventana Double Cone. VDC is the highest point in the San Lucia mountains and offers 360 views for miles in each direction. Although quite rugged and slightly overgrown, VDC is a rewarding hike. From Pat Springs, you're looking at another 7.5 miles each way with another 1500 (or so) feet of elevation gain. 

Feel free to ask me any questions if I've left something out. 

Note: This part of the San Lucias is dry. I suggest at least 2.5 liters per person to be safe. There is water once you get to the campsite (hence, the spring) for you to treat and fill up on. NOTE: There is NO WATER AT BOTTCHERS GAP. Don't expect to be able to fill up right before your hike. Pack your water in.