Highway 1 reopens in Big Sur as Timber Fire containment reaches 29%

Highway 1 in Big Sur has reopened to the public as firefighters continue to battle the Timber Fire, which has been burning for over two weeks. While much of the iconic coastal highway is accessible again, a specific section between Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park remains closed due to safety concerns regarding unstable rocks.

As of recent reports, the fire has scorched between 6,147 and 7,500 acres in Monterey County and the Los Padres National Forest. Containment is estimated at approximately 29%. Fire crews are focusing efforts on strengthening containment lines and using aircraft for water and retardant drops, particularly on the eastern flank of the fire.

Evacuation orders and warnings remain in effect for several zones in the area. While many local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, have begun reopening, officials continue to monitor the fire as it pushes northeast into rougher terrain. The cause of the Timber Fire is currently under investigation.