Pine Ridge Trail / Sykes Hot Springs Permit
Los Padres National Forest · California
Classic Big Sur backpacking to Sykes Hot Springs. Campfire permit required.
Plan your Los Padres National Forest trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Walk-up permit
How to get Pine Ridge
Pine Ridge is issued by the agency rather than through a booking calendar. Their page has the current process and any dates.
Official permit pagePlanning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
How to get a Pine Ridge permit
- Type
- Backpacking
- Location
- CA
How this permit is issued
Get this permit in person at the trailhead or ranger station, or by phone.
Official permit page →Step 1: Check the agency page for the process
This permit is not sold online. Confirm where and when it is issued (and any fee) at U.S. Forest Service before your trip.
Step 2: Arrive early
Walk-up permits are issued first-come, first-served. Where the agency sets a daily quota, popular trailheads can run out on weekends and holidays.
Step 3: Have backup plans
Popular trailheads fill fast. Know alternate routes or dates.
More on Pine Ridge: Live availability activity
Guides: Los Padres National Forest Pine Ridge permit guideVicente Flat Trail permit guideSalmon Creek Trail permit guide
When to hike Pine Ridge
Weather Forecast
Trailhead
Today
65°
47°
Wed
63°
45°
Thu
60°
45°
Fri
58°
47°
Sat
61°
47°
42%
Sun
58°
47°
47%
Mon
68°
51°
Pine Ridge rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Pine Ridge.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Pine Ridge · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Pine Ridge FAQ
How do I get a Pine Ridge permit?
Pine Ridge is issued directly by the agency. It is issued in person or by phone, so there is no reservation to book and no cancellation to catch. Bring backup dates and check their page for the current process.
When is the best time to visit Pine Ridge?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Pine Ridge permit?
This permit has a demand score of 8/10, making it highly competitive. We recommend having backup dates and reading the official permit page for how this one is issued.
What if I can't get a Pine Ridge permit?
The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.
Pine Ridge trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
No questions yet
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Alternatives to a Pine Ridge permit
Where to stay near Pine Ridge
- Pfeiffer Big Sur Sp Weyland Camp (sites 79-130) campgroundPfeiffer Big Sur SP
- Pfeiffer Big Sur Sp Main Camp (sites 131-188) campgroundPfeiffer Big Sur SP
- Pfeiffer Big Sur Sp South Camp (sites 1-78) campgroundPfeiffer Big Sur SP
- All California campgrounds
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