Marble Peak Bridge via Arroyo Seco Campground

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 5+ 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 colloquially called 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.

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 must pay a $10 vehicle entry fee either at a National Forest ranger booth on the way or at the parking lot.

RANGER CONTACT INFO:
Monterey Ranger District Office: (831) 385-5434 ext 0 

PACK LIST:

Everything that you bring to Arroyo Seco will get wet. If there is anything that you want to keep dry, you must keep it in a dry bag.

Furthermore, the River Gods demand tribute, usually in the form of car keys, flip-flops, and sunglasses. As such, it's highly recommended that you don't bring anything that you don't want to lose. If you insist on bringing a camera, I recommend a GoPro or similar waterproof camera that is secured to your person.

The only essential item to bring to Arroyo Seco is a bathing suit. The water is relatively warm in the summer, but a wetsuit is highly recommended in the winter, as the water gets quite chilly.