Due to a huge wildfire that has already destroyed more than 19,000 acres in California, a number of iconic state parks along the Big Sur coast have been closed until further notice.
That means that the California Department of Parks and Recreation has barred access to some of the most popular campgrounds and hiking trails in an area noted for its awe-inspiring oceanside scenery. The drive along Highway 1, often celebrated for its views, is likely to be clogged with traffic from fire crews battling the blaze.
For those who plan to travel in the area anyway, many resorts, businesses, and attractions, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, are remaining open for the time being.