Classic Big Sur coastal backpacking. No quota permit.
Plan your Los Padres National Forest trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Walk-up permit
How to get Vicente Flat
Vicente Flat is issued by the agency rather than through a booking calendar. Their page has the current process and any dates.
Official permit pagePlanning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
How to get a Vicente Flat permit
- Type
- Backpacking
- Location
- CA
How this permit is issued
Get this permit in person at the trailhead or ranger station, or by phone.
Official permit page →Step 1: Check the agency page for the process
This permit is not sold online. Confirm where and when it is issued (and any fee) at U.S. Forest Service before your trip.
Step 2: Arrive early
Walk-up permits are issued first-come, first-served. Where the agency sets a daily quota, popular trailheads can run out on weekends and holidays.
Step 3: Have backup plans
Popular trailheads fill fast. Know alternate routes or dates.
More on Vicente Flat: Live availability activity
When to hike Vicente Flat
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Today
80°
52°
Wed
84°
60°
Thu
88°
63°
Fri
91°
65°
Sat
91°
66°
Sun
90°
69°
Mon
90°
67°
Vicente Flat rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Vicente Flat.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Vicente Flat · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Vicente Flat FAQ
How do I get a Vicente Flat permit?
Vicente Flat is issued directly by the agency. It is issued in person or by phone, so there is no reservation to book and no cancellation to catch. Bring backup dates and check their page for the current process.
When is the best time to visit Vicente Flat?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Vicente Flat permit?
This permit has a demand score of 7/10, making it highly competitive. We recommend having backup dates and reading the official permit page for how this one is issued.
What if I can't get a Vicente Flat permit?
The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.
Vicente Flat trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
No questions yet
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Trip Reports
Write ReportAlternatives to a Vicente Flat permit
Where to stay near Vicente Flat
- Pine Mountain CampgroundLos Padres National Forest
- Reyes Peak CampgroundLos Padres National Forest
- Reyes Creek CampgroundLos Padres National Forest
- All California campgrounds
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