Driving the Nacimiento-Fergusson Road in California is quite an adventure

Nacimiento-Fergusson Road is a stunning drive located on the Pacific coast of the U.S. state of California, regarded as one of the best motorcycling roads in central California.

Nacimiento-Fergusson Road

Where is the Nacimiento-Fergusson Road?

The road is located in Monterey County, in the US state of California, running across the eastern slope of the Santa Lucia range within Los Padres National Forest.

How long is the Nacimiento-Fergusson Road?

The road is 39.26 km (24.2 miles) long, running west-east from Mission Road to California State Route 1 (Cabrillo Highway). It’s a spectacular road throughout.

Is the Nacimiento-Fergusson Road paved?

Completed in 1937, the road is well-paved and maintained, barely two lanes wide (no center strip) with steep banks on both sides.

How long does it take to drive the Nacimiento-Fergusson Road?

Driving the road without stopping typically takes between 60 and 80 minutes. Although quiet and mostly unused, encounters with other cars are possible. The eastern slope, heavily forested, offers limited vistas, with pull-outs along the way for photos and turning around.

Is the Nacimiento-Fergusson Road open?

Carved into the mountain's side, the road tops out at 840m (2,759ft) above sea level, crossing the unpaved Old Coast Road seven miles from Highway 1. It may be impassable during winter months and occasionally closed for brief periods during tank, artillery, and other firing exercises. Extensive slides and debris flows are common.

Is the Nacimiento-Fergusson Road difficult?

This is not a drive for the faint of heart, with precipitous drops and no guardrails. Going slow around corners and staying attentive is crucial. The last part of the road features more than 100 turns, so note potential blind corners during the ascent. If you're comfortable essentially driving up the side of a cliff, it's a gorgeous drive. Night driving is not recommended, and cellular service is unreliable.