Landslide keeps Highway 1 closed near SLO County line
Northbound travelers can drive as far as 25 miles north of the county line, two miles north of Lucia, before needing to turn around
– A landslide that has kept a portion of Highway 1 on the Big Sur coast closed since February 2024 continues to shift, delaying any plans for reopening, according to a recent post by the San Luis Obispo Tribune. The slide, known as Regent’s Slide, is located about 27 miles north of the San Luis Obispo-Monterey county line and remains unstable, moving up to a foot per day.
Caltrans initially halted repair work after discovering new cracks in the area. The agency has since resumed excavation and monitoring efforts, though a completion date remains uncertain. A second slide in August 2024 worsened conditions, further extending the road closure. Officials expect recent and upcoming rainstorms to trigger additional movement at the site.
Despite the ongoing closure, most of the highway remains open to traffic. Northbound travelers can drive as far as 25 miles north of the county line, two miles north of Lucia, before turning around. Southbound traffic is stopped seven miles north of the slide. Northbound travelers may use Nacimiento-Fergusson Road to connect back to Highway 101, though the route is steep and winding.
Caltrans continues to monitor the slide with daily drone flights and 3D imaging technology to track changes. Excavation work has so far resulted in a stable slope, according to the agency’s monitoring equipment.
Businesses along the accessible portions of the highway remain open, and officials note that traffic is light, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the scenic drive with fewer crowds, according to the Tribune report. However, with the peak tourist season approaching, the indefinite closure of this section of the highway could impact travel plans.
Caltrans has not provided an estimated reopening date as it continues efforts to stabilize the area and prevent further damage.
