McWay Falls

Big Sur, California

4.6/5

based on 34 reviews

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Added by Stephen Bellrichard

This waterfall is one of the most recognizable images of Big Sur. It's a short (just over a half mile roundtrip) walk to get views of this 80 foot waterfall. Get your camera ready!

McWay Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in BIg Sur and can be seen from Highway 1. The trail to the falls is located in Julia Pfeiffer. For all of you history buffs, Mcway Falls is named after Christopher McWay, an early settler and farmer from New York who ventured west in the late 1800s.

To get there, from the parking lot, walk back towards Highway 1 and look for the sign to the Waterfall Trail. If you're parked in the additional parking lot, walk back toward the lot entrance. You'll head down some steps, follow a wide path and then pass through a tunnel under the highway. Along the path, there are several points to take in the falls. Depending on the time of year and day you go, they may be packed with photographers, so be patient.

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McWay Falls Reviews

Erin T

McWay Falls

06/03/22

We happened to be there on a very foggy day and couldn’t see much of the falls. Still a fun, quick hike and worth doing.

3.0

Aimee Tello

McWay Falls

01/21/21

Súper easy walk! The waterfall is far away but beautiful nonetheless. Be careful cue they’re giving out tickets for people w dogs!

4.0

Andy

McWay Falls

11/23/20

Parked on a turnout a little farther down and walked to McWay Falls. It's an amazing view even on a cloudy day

5.0

Jennifer Carr

McWay Falls

11/23/20

There are very few waterfalls which cascade into the ocean, so a visit to McWay is a treat. This beautiful spot is often crowded and it's challenging to navigate with a tripod, but well worth the effort for a long exposure photo!

5.0

Margo Schmiederer

McWay Falls

08/14/20

This is an iconic waterfall along the coastline and in Big Sur. There's a small hike you can do in the area, but otherwise this stop is mainly only for the waterfall

4.0

Crystal Sibson

McWay Falls

08/12/20

The lookout point over McWay Falls is a beautiful roadside attraction. It's a great spot to shoot sunset photos of the falls.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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McWay Falls

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Nearby

Hike the Ewoldsen Trail

Hike the Waters Ridge Trail

Explore The Hidden Rock Caves At Partington Cove

Hike to Big Sur's Tin House

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