Big Sur-Hwy 1, CA - Nov 2006

Another "must do" activity when visiting Monterey is to take a drive on Hwy 1 down to Big Sur. This narrow, two-lane road hugs the cliffs next to the Pacific Ocean and offers up outstanding views around every bend. This photo shows just one of many curves in the road where there's not much between you and a very steep drop to the ocean below. Oh, but what a view!

The views are so magnificent that they cannot be fully appreciated by staying in the car, so at one scenic spot we took off on a hike to fully enjoy this gorgeous area. This trail took us along the very edge of a cliff -- and I do mean EDGE -- as in one mis-step could break loose a piece of the crumbling cliff. We had tight holds on the dog's leashes as we feared they would venture too close to the edge and get a quick trip down to the beach below.