40-Mile Highway 1 Stretch Reopens Near Big Sur

A 40-mile northern stretch of Highway 1 through Big Sur reopened ahead of Labor Day as cooler, more humid weather and firefighting progress reduced the Timber Fire’s threat along the coastal corridor. The reopening restored access from the north and lifted evacuations in the area, but state parks remained closed and a separate southern closure caused by the larger, less-contained Plaskett Fire continued to block through travel between Monterey and Cambria. The closures had kept restaurants, hotels and other businesses largely shut during peak tourist season, causing substantial revenue losses and financial strain for employees. Owners welcomed the reopening but said recovery would take time, with some offering discounts and contacting customers whose reservations were canceled. Officials continued urging motorists to avoid unnecessary travel near the fire zone while crews assessed hazards, secured containment lines and protected homes and businesses.