Portion of California's Highway 1 Closed Due to Rockslides

Caltrans shuts down 45-mile stretch along Central Coast due to debris and safety concerns.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Caltrans has shut down a 45-mile section of California's iconic Highway 1 from Ragged Point to Big Sur due to rockslides and debris on the roadway. The closure is in effect as crews work to clear the area and assess any potential damage to the highway.

Why it matters

Highway 1 is a major tourist draw along the Central California coast, and the closure will impact travel and commerce in the region. Rockslides and debris on the highway pose a serious safety risk to drivers, making the closure a necessary precaution.

The details

The affected stretch of Highway 1 is a popular route for travelers exploring the scenic California coastline. Caltrans crews are currently working to clear the roadway of any fallen rocks, mud, and other debris that accumulated after recent storms in the area.

  • The highway closure went into effect on February 17, 2026.

The players

Caltrans

The California Department of Transportation, the state agency responsible for maintaining and overseeing California's highway system.

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What’s next

Caltrans has not provided an estimated timeline for when the highway may reopen, as the cleanup and assessment process is still ongoing.

The takeaway

This closure of a major section of Highway 1 highlights the ongoing challenges California faces in maintaining its critical transportation infrastructure in the face of extreme weather events and natural disasters.