Anderson Canyon

Anderson Canyon, in Big Sur south of McWay Falls, drains through redwood forest to the Pacific and includes Anderson Peak. Named for James and Peter Andersen, Danish immigrant brothers who settled there in 1874 and 1883, the area had earlier Mexican-era associations with Pino Palado Peak. In the late 19th century its coast supported small landings that shipped redwood, tanbark, limestone, and gold. The canyon later became important in building Highway One, including a major prison labor camp before the road opened in 1937. Afterward, its cabins housed writers and artists, including Henry Miller, and the canyon also became significant for condor recovery and other protected coastal habitat.

California · United States