Watch Big Sur: Wild California

Big Sur: Wild California is a documentary series produced by National Geographic that explores the stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity of California's Big Sur region. The show offers an in-depth look at the diverse ecosystems that make up this unique area, from the rocky coastlines and towering redwood forests to the jagged mountains and pristine rivers.

Over the course of six episodes, viewers are taken on a journey through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in North America. Each episode focuses on a different aspect of the region's wildlife and natural wonders, revealing the hidden stories of the creatures that call Big Sur home.

The first episode, "Ghosts of the Redwoods", highlights the majestic old-growth redwood forests that cover much of the region. These towering trees, some of the tallest in the world, are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including rare species such as the marbled murrelet and northern spotted owl. The episode also explores the history of these forests, which were almost entirely destroyed during the logging boom of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The second episode, "Coastal Giants", focuses on the stunning coastline that stretches for over 90 miles along the Big Sur region. This rugged and remote landscape is home to an incredible amount of biodiversity, from rocky tide pools teeming with life to towering sea cliffs that provide habitat for nesting seabirds. The episode also showcases some of the remarkable wildlife that can be found in the waters off the coast, including humpback whales and California sea lions.

The third episode, "Mountain Kingdom", takes viewers up into the rugged peaks and valleys of the Santa Lucia Mountains, which run down the spine of the Big Sur region. This area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including mountain lions, black bears, and even the elusive California condor. The episode also explores the challenges facing the region's flora and fauna as a result of climate change and human activity.

The fourth episode, "River of Life", focuses on the Big Sur River, which flows through the heart of the region and provides vital habitat for a wide range of wildlife. From the towering redwoods that line the riverbanks to the steelhead trout that swim in its crystal-clear waters, this episode reveals the incredible biodiversity that depends on this vital watershed.

The fifth episode, "Wildfire Inferno", looks at the destructive force of wildfires, which have become an increasingly common occurrence in the Big Sur region in recent years. From the massive Soberanes Fire in 2016 to smaller, more frequent blazes, the episode explores the ways in which these fires are impacting the region's wildlife and ecosystems.

The final episode, "Mystery of the Megaflood", delves into the geologic history of the Big Sur region, which has undergone dramatic changes over millions of years. The episode explores the evidence of a massive flood that occurred over 20,000 years ago and how this event may have shaped the region's modern-day topography.

Overall, Big Sur: Wild California is a breathtakingly beautiful and informative series that offers a rare glimpse into one of the most unique and diverse regions in North America. Through stunning cinematography and expert storytelling, viewers are sure to leave with a newfound appreciation for the natural wonders of this incredible landscape.

Big Sur: Wild California is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between March 30, 2010 and on National Geographic