Cruising up the Pacific Coast

We’ve driven California Route 1 for the first time from North to South in 2022 and on May 1 of 2026 we did it again from South to North. It’s important to note that California’s Highway 1 through Big Sur fully reopened on January 14, 2026, following a major three-year closure caused by severe landslides and roadway collapses that began in early 2023. 

The closure, spanning roughly 90 miles, was one of the longest in its history, with crews repairing damage at sites like Paul's Slide and Regent's Slide. 

This time it wasn’t as spectacular as we were driving on the hill side of the route instead of enjoying more of the seaside views, but was still as exciting. Traffic was light, and the morning for in many past took away some of the beauty of that drive. 

Still, the entire drive was never boring, which goes a long way in saying that California is really a gorgeous state. 

We made it to San Francisco late afternoon after we climbed the hilly streets of the neighborhood where our daughter lives. We were delighted to see her and to personally deliver her automobile in excellent condition. 

That evening as we were walking I just just stumble and fell on my left knee, as I was looking at some building up above. At the time, I simply hoped it would be alright. 

We were delighted that we made it in one piece after another 1,250 miles (2 000 km) drive. As for me, the driver, I was glad the trip was over!