California · Hiking · Ventana Wilderness · Near Gonzales

South Fork

5.8 mi
round trip
703 ft
climb
2,044 ft
high point
Out and back
route
Jan–Dec
best months

Is South Fork open right now?

Closure in the area

There's a closure order in Monterey Ranger District. It doesn't name South Fork, so check the source for the area it covers.

As of · Source: USFS · Monterey Ranger District. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

South Fork is a moderate out-and-back hike in the Ventana Wilderness, part of the Monterey Ranger District of Los Padres National Forest in California. The Forest Service manages the land, and the trail lies within designated wilderness. The route is about 5.8 miles long, with a one-way elevation gain of 703 feet. It starts at a low point of about 1,542 feet and reaches a high of about 2,044 feet. The trail surface is natural, and it is not accessible. Horses are allowed, but bikes are not. Late summer is the warmest stretch. Typical averages from a nearby weather station in Carmel Valley show September highs around 81°F with lows near 51°F and almost no wet days. That station sits well below the trail, so temperatures on the route run cooler. Black Cone and the South Fork Trail both lie about a mile away, and Marble Peak is about 1.4 miles off. For an overnight base, China Camp campground is about 6.9 miles away.

Around this trail

Add any of these when you start a trip
  • Sleep close

    South Fork Camp

    Campground

    Campground · 0.8 mi from the trail
  • Eat after

    Denny's

    Restaurant

    Open after 6
  • If it rains

    Sykes Hot Spring

    Hot spring

    On your way back · 5 mi

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