For years, a significant stretch of California’s iconic Highway 1 was impassable, its breathtaking views and legendary curves severed by multiple major landslides. For overlanders and travelers around the world, the closure created a missing link in their bucket-list journeys. While both sides of the highway remained accessible, through-travel came to a hard stop.
Landslides are nothing new along this coast, but each one underscores how fragile this landscape is, and how deeply its beauty deserves to be appreciated. Over the past decade alone, four major landslides have forced extended closures of Highway 1:
Mud Creek Slide: May 2017 to July 2018
Rat Creek Slide: January 2021 to April 2021
Paul’s Slide: January 2023 to June 2024
Regent’s Slide: February 2024 to January 2026
Read more about Big Sur’s landslide history from Big Sur Kate
On January 14, 2026, the barriers came down, reconnecting the coastline between San Simeon and Carmel.
Now I can only speak on the communities South of the slide, but the economies in Big Sur, San Simeon, and Cambria are deeply intertwined with the steady flow of travelers cruising the coast. Since the reopening, there has been new energy in the area. Stores seem to have more shoppers, restaurants are busier, and there is no shortage of rad overlanding rigs parked nearby. Honestly, the weather has been incredible lately, so I’m sure that has helped too.
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I took a drive up the coast last weekend to see for myself. As mentioned, the weather was insane, and I was ready to feel small again among the giant redwood trees.
The pullouts and viewpoints along the newly accessible stretch are once again filled with cars and overland rigs, soaking in the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, and waiting for the green flash at sunset. Yes, the green flash is a real phenomenon, and the cliffs of Big Sur are the perfect vantage point to see it.
For the overlanding community, the complete reopening of Highway 1 is monumental. This drive is a rite of passage, a crucial link connecting countless other adventures. Whether you’re embarking on a journey north to the Pacific Northwest or heading south toward the deserts of Southern California, this route is an essential and unforgettable part of the experience. The road’s return means new stories will be told and new memories will be forged along one of the world’s most scenic highways.
While the main artery is now fully open, travelers should note that the region is still recovering. Some facilities, like certain campgrounds within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, remain closed. This means planning ahead is more crucial than ever. Before hitting the road, be sure to check official state park and Caltrans websites for the latest updates on closures and conditions.
The reopening of Highway 1 is a celebration of resilience, for the engineers who rebuilt the road and for the communities that endured its absence. It re-establishes a vital connection for commerce, tourism, and adventure. From rugged overland builds to classic convertibles, vehicles of all kinds are once again tracing the edge of the continent on this incredible highway. Welcome back, Highway 1! The adventure awaits.
Heading south to Overland Expo SoCal? Consider taking Highway 1 and tag us in your travels on Instagram at @overlandexpo. Day passes and camping passes are still available!
