Big Sur Lodge is located in the heart of California’s iconic Big Sur State Park, offering visitors an exceptional base to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area. Surrounded by towering redwoods and dramatic coastal cliffs, the Lodge provides easy access to the park’s renowned hiking trails, pristine rivers, and breathtaking ocean views. Big Sur is known for its rugged landscapes, rich wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Paul Amend plays a vital role at Big Sur Lodge and in the Big Sur Fire Brigade, balancing his responsibilities as the Sales and Marketing Manager at the Lodge with his duties as a firefighter in the local community. His dedication to both roles speaks to his deep commitment to the safety and enjoyment of both visitors and residents in this remote, picturesque area.
A Life-Saving Incident
One of Paul’s most memorable experiences as a firefighter took place on January 5, 2024. He and his team responded to a serious rescue on the Pine Ridge Trail, where a hiker had fallen almost 350 feet, suffering injuries to his head, leg, and arm. The weather was cold and foggy, making a helicopter rescue impossible. In these challenging conditions, the team had to get creative and find alternative ways to rescue the injured hiker.
Paul recounts how they located the patient after hours of hiking and maneuvering through the fog. The team found a path that led them down to the riverbed, where they were able to lower the patient and prepare him for transport. Using an off-road stretcher, they wheeled the hiker for nearly nine miles back to safety. “It was one of the more grueling rescues I’ve been a part of,” Paul says. “But the team’s perseverance got us through it, and we were able to get him out in the end.”
Big Sur’s Community Resilience
Another pivotal moment in Paul’s career happened on March 30, 2024, when a road washout isolated thousands of visitors to Big Sur. With no way for them to leave, Paul and his team jumped into action, transforming the Lodge’s Conference Center into an emergency shelter.
Read more about this incident and hear from Big Sur Lodge General Manager Matt Wilkins
“Once the road became impassable, we had to find a way to care for everyone who couldn’t get out,” Paul recalls. The Lodge hosted 63 people in the Conference Center and provided additional space in the restaurant, while others chose to sleep in their cars. Throughout the night, Paul and his team kept guests informed about road conditions and when they could return home. “We did everything we could to make sure everyone was safe and comfortable,” he adds. The following day, the road partially reopened, and visitors were able to continue their journey through a mass caravan organized by park officials.
The Big Sur Fire Brigade
Paul’s journey with Big Sur Fire began in early 2023, when he enrolled in the Big Sur Fire Academy to become a certified firefighter. Paul highlights the unique nature of the Big Sur Fire Department, which is largely funded by donations from local businesses and residents. “It’s a community effort, and being part of that makes me proud,” he says.
Since his training, Paul has been involved in several emergency responses, including helicopter rescues and other critical incidents. His firsthand knowledge of Big Sur’s trails and remote locations has made him a valuable asset in these rescue operations. “Living and working here gives me the advantage of knowing the area intimately, which is crucial when it comes to saving lives in an emergency,” Paul explains.
Balancing Sales & Marketing And Big Sur Fire
In addition to his firefighting duties, Paul also serves as the Sales and Marketing Manager at Big Sur Lodge. Balancing these roles is a challenge, but Paul manages it with grace, ensuring the success of both operations. He coordinates events, helps with marketing campaigns, and responds to emergency calls when needed.
Paul’s dual roles require him to be flexible and always ready to step in at a moment’s notice. “My pager goes off for emergencies, and if I can help, I’m there,” he says. Whether he’s working on a marketing strategy or coordinating a rescue, Paul’s commitment to his community shines through in everything he does.
Paul Amend’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and service. Whether he’s handling a marketing campaign or saving lives in the wilderness, Paul embodies the spirit of Big Sur—a place where dedication and compassion truly shine.
Thank you for all you do, Paul!
