Adventure at Arroyo Seco

This off-the-beaten-trail adventure has a little bit of everything for everyone, and is as challenging as you make it. Many just make it about a mile down to the river for a leisurely day of relaxing, swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a few cold beverages. Others embark on a 7+ mile adventure up the river, which entails hiking, swimming, scrambling, and even some optional bouldering and cliff diving.

The best spots on the river are the colloquially referred to as the "Amphitheater" and "Narrows." The Amphitheater is about 2 miles from the parking lot and is a very deep swimming hole surrounded by steep cliffs (where many cliff dive from).

To reach Arroyo Seco from the San Francisco Bay Area, head south on Highway 101 and take the Arroyo Seco Road exit (just south of Soledad). Follow Arroyo Seco Road for about 35 minutes to reach the Arroyo Seco Gorge Parking Lot. Depending on the season, you will have to pay a $10 vehicle entry fee either at a National Forest ranger booth on the way or at the parking lot.