Monterey County offers nature enthusiasts treasures by land, sea and sky

Monterey County may be known for its artist colonies, Cannery Row, golf tournaments and car races. But for real nature enthusiasts, it offers a wonderland of adventures.

The epic drive on Route 1 from Ragged Point to Carmel, with its steep cliffs, hairpin turns, and magnificent ocean views, is a must-do for any adventurous soul. But Stephen Copeland, who owns Big Sur Guides and Hiking, believes taking the time to explore the county’s many parks and nature preserves can be nothing short of life-changing.