Celebrating the Reopening of Highway 1

The mudslides of 2017 threatened the livelihood of many Central Coast communities, but the beautiful cycling routes in the area brought a positive light to a challenging situation until Highway 1 could reopen.

When the mudslides hit Highway 1, the Central Coast knew that it would be harder for people from the north to visit—but this created a unique opportunity for cyclists. With less traffic on Highway 1, there was a chance for experienced cyclists to make the journey from Big Sur all the way to Cambria with an intense detour around the mudslide area that impressed even the most advanced riders.

The exposure from this exciting cycling opportunity brought new visitors to the community in a time where many travelers from the Bay Area thought it wasn’t an option. During the Highway 1 closure, Cycle Central Coast brought in influencers to experience the Central Coast’s “best-kept secret:” the unique opportunity with the new route.

The original route is commemorated today with the Highway 1 Altitude Route, using a similar detour from the original route.

After a full cycling season, Highway 1 finally reopened with a celebration led by Visit California called the Dream Drive, where journalists from around the world were invited to experience the beauty of the Central Coast.