Using The Reserve

Visiting Big Creek Reserve requires an approved application for research or educational purposes. Applications are submitted through the UC Natural Reserve System Reservations System (RAMS).

NOTICE: Big Creek Reserve is currently inaccessible to non-residents and non-site-dependent essential work. The Regents Slide, located at MM 27.6 between the two entrance gates, has blocked Highway 1 and access to Big Creek Reserve is limited while it is within the Caltrans Emergency Highway 1 closure. Please only submit a visit request for site-dependent project purposes, i.e. projects that cannot be done anywhere but at Big Creek Reserve.

Caltrans estimates removing the closure at the end of March 2026. Requests for reserve use that are not site-dependent projects may be considered after the closure is lifted.

Docent-led Tours have been postponed until Highway 1 opens

Apply To Use the Reserve Here

Natural Reserves News

Trail Crew Campaign

The Dolan Fire and subsequent winter storms wreaked havoc on Big Creek’s trail system. A large proportion of what was a 22-mile trail network has been damaged. Our trails provide important access to the biological, geological, and cultural diversity that are vital for learning and research. Please help us hire a trail crew by giving directly to the effort now. Our fundraising goal for this campaign is $115,000. 

Make a Donation

If you would like to give to help with the important recovery process at Big Creek Reserve, please visit our Giving Page for instructions on how to make a donation. 

Shortcuts to Local Conditions

Weather Forecast

Real-time Data:
Gatehouse – Sea Level
Whale Point – 500′ Elevation
Highlands Peak – 2,450′ Elevation
Mining Ridge – 4,200′ Elevation. 24 Hour Central Coast Precipitation Map
Caltrans
BigSurKate

The Learning Experience

To Support Our Work