Cruickshank Campground via Cruickshank Trail
6.0 mi
Distance
2 hrs 50 min
Time
terrain
2,894 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a difficult one way trail to Cruickshank Trailhead Parking in Los Padres National Forest.
This trail goes by Lion Den Camp, Silver Camp, Cruickshank Campground, Lower Cruikshank Camp, and Silver Peak Wilderness.
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
Took this trail on the hottest weekend of the year thus far. The first mile or so up the switchbacks was brutal in the still heat, but manageable if you go at your own pace. After that the trail mellows out significantly and cools down with the shade cover. A little overgrown in parts, I recommend wearing pants. Villa Creek camp has plenty of flowing water and some really beautiful swimming spots. Great place to hangout and cool off after the hike in. Overall, given the busyness of Big Sur during Covid, we ran into 5 or 6 other groups of backpackers, but we fortunately got in early enough to get a secluded spot. Remember to always pack in and pack out! And print out your fire permit before you go if you plan on using a stove!
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Public Tracks
There are no published trips for this hike. There are 57 private trips.
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