Notes from Big Sur

And just like that, our final Snow Peak Way of 2026 has come and gone. What a weekend we shared! First came a breathtaking drive along the Pacific Coast with non-stop views of the sea sparkling in the sunshine. Campers, Snow Peak staff and partners convened at Big Sur Campground & Cabins, a scenic place nestled along the river and well-shaded by towering Redwoods.

Day 1:

Campers arrived early on Friday, and each campsite soon filled with tents, shelters, tarps and expansive IGT kitchens. As always, creativity was on full display – from communal, full-scale bar setups to adorable Mini Hozuki mobiles. The community energy converged for Takibi Time and the Opening Ceremony in the evening. We toasted the weekend and shared time around the fire with friends before most campers returned to their sites for the night.

Day 2:

Ask any Snow Peak employee about their favorite part of Snow Peak Way – and it’s almost certainly the relaxed vibe of Saturday. We’ve left the hustle of setup behind, and the day ahead is full of possibility. Guests, partners and staff began their day with a hot cup of coffee – some campers brewed theirs under the expert guidance of Erik Lauchie in his coffee-making workshop. Others eased into the morning with a sound bath meditation with Last Straw or a soothing tea ceremony led by Bardo.

As the day continued, campers moved between workshops and activities. They enjoyed rejuvenating sauna, river cold plunges, and refreshing electrolyte hydration hosted by Magna. Landdd led knot crafts, for fun customization of water bottles and other accessories. Campers also had their titanium pieces engraved with Manta Gallery, creating true one-of-a-kind collectibles. Kellyn and North from TOGS reminded us of the power of letter writing with their postcard making class. We tasted delicious bites from BaseKamp and savored grilled morsels from Thaan Charcoal. Campers deepened their knowledge of Big Sur’s unique environment - birdwatching with Swarovski Optik and joining Redwood forest ecology tours with The Last Straw.

As evening approached, the campground filled with fragrant smells of meals being prepared. Coolers were cracked open, and the communal Cafe & Bar filled with campers, staff and partners enjoying beverages from Beachwood Brewing. The sun sank below the horizon and the happy sounds of laughter, lively chatter and an occasional “kanpai!” filled the campground.

Day 3:

The sun crested the hillside, awaking campers to their final hours of Snow Peak Way in 2026. Scents of bacon, French toast and coffee drifted through camp. Later in the morning, we convened back at the Takibi circle for the Closing Ceremony and highly anticipated Paper Airplane Contest. Once prizes were awarded, we gathered for a group photo to mark another memorable weekend shared together.