To review our listings of hiking trails and nature walks, please scroll down the page.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
<\/a>Santa Cruz Parks, Beaches and Nature Preserves<\/h2>\n\u00a0<\/div>\nBig Basin State Park\u2014Rancho Del Oso (Ocean end of the State Park)<\/em><\/h3>\nDue to the August 2020 wildfires, this park is temporarily closed.<\/span><\/p>\nLocated 20 miles north of Santa Cruz on Hwy. 1, the park has miles of trails, which serves hikers and equestrians, links Big Basin to Castle Rock State Park and the eastern reaches of the Santa Cruz range.\u00a0Maps<\/a><\/strong> >><\/p>\nOne of our favorite short hikes \u2013 around 1 \u00bd hours round trip \u2013 is located in the Rancho Del Oso section of the park by the ocean. For more information about his really fun hike, go to https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/big-basin-redwoods-state-park-rancho-del-oso\/<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\nAfter your hike or nature walk, walk across the highway to Waddle State Beach. It’s a parasailer’s paradise. Almost always windy, so you get a chance to see the bright colored sails dancing across the waves.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Rancho Del Oso 4.7 stars out of 5 . We love this place. Our rating is a solid 4.7 stars.<\/p>\n
Address: 3600 CA-1, Davenport, CA 95017
Phone:\u00a0(831) 427-2288
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=863<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n![\"Big](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.explorer1.com\/images\/camping\/big-basin1.jpg?w=1080\")
Big Basin State Park<\/a><\/h3>\n21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 338-8860<\/p>\n
Due to the August 2020 wildfires, this park is temporarily closed.<\/span><\/p>\nThe park has over 80 miles of trails. Be sure and pick up a map at park headquarters before your hike and take a look at the multimedia kiosk in the Sempervirens Room (next to park headquarters). There you will find great information, photos, and video of some of the most popular trails.<\/p>\n
Address: 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
Phone:\u00a0(831) 338-8861
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=540<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nDeLaveaga Park<\/h3>\n
Trails are open to hikers and bicyclists. Please stay on designated trails.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate DeLaveaga Park 4.2 to 4.6 stars out of 5. We rate it a solid 4.5 stars.<\/p>\n
Address: 850 N. Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, CA
Website: https:\/\/www.cityofsantacruz.com\/government\/city-departments\/parks-recreation\/parks-beaches-open-spaces\/parks\/delaveaga-park<\/a><\/p>\nForest of Nisene Marks State Park<\/h3>\n
The park offers rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains of more than 2,600 feet.\u00a0 It has over 30 miles of hiking, jogging and biking trails.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Forest of Nisene Marks State Park 4.3 to 4.8 stars out of 5. We rate it a solid 4.5 stars.<\/p>\n
Address: Aptos Creek Road, Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA
Phone: (831) 763-7062
Website: http:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=666<\/a><\/p>\nHenry Cowell Redwoods State Park<\/h3>\n
This park features 15 miles of hiking and riding trails through a forest that looks much the same as it did 200 years ago.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 4.2 to 5 stars out of 5. We rate it a solid 4.8 stars.<\/p>\n
Address: 101 North Big Trees Park Road, Felton, CA
Phone: (831) 438-2396
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=546<\/a><\/p>\nLong Ridge Open Space Preserve<\/h3>\n
Since one can take short hikes or rides to scenic overlooks or longer loop trips, the preserve is very popular with hikers, cyclists, and equestrians.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Long Ridge Open Space Preserve 4.5 to 4.7 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Located on Skyline Boulevard, about 3.6 miles north of its intersection with Highway 9, and approximately 3.3 miles south of its intersection with Page Mill Road.<\/p>\n
Address: La Honda, CA 94020
Phone:\u00a0(650) 691-1200
Website: https:\/\/www.openspace.org\/preserves\/long-ridge<\/a><\/p>\nPogonip Park<\/h3>\n
Pogonip features approximately 8 miles of hiking trails. In the northernmost portion of Pogonip, a multi-use trail (approximately one mile in length) is open hikers, bicyclists and equestrians. This multi-use trail provides a connection between Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Pogonip, and the upper UCSC campus. Bicycles and horses are prohibited on all other trails. Bicyclists must ride responsibly and at a safe speed.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Pogonip Park 4.2 to 4.6 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 333 Golf Club Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone:\u00a0(831) 420-5270
Website: https:\/\/www.cityofsantacruz.com\/government\/city-departments\/parks-recreation\/parks-beaches-open-spaces\/open-spaces\/pogonip<\/a><\/p>\nSaratoga Gap Open Space Preserve<\/h3>\n
The two mile multi-use Saratoga Gap Trail provides great opportunities for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve 4.5 to 4.7 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
located at Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Highway 9 intersection<\/p>\n
Address: 28798 Big Basin Way, Los Gatos, CA 95033
Phone:\u00a0(650) 691-1200
Website: https:\/\/www.openspace.org\/preserves\/saratoga-gap<\/a><\/p>\nSoquel Demonstration State Park<\/h3>\n
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection<\/p>\n
Offering almost 5 miles (out and back) trails, this preserve is extremely popular with mountain bikers.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 29400 Highland Way, Los Gatos, CA 95033
Phone:\u00a0(831) 475-8643
Website: https:\/\/www.fire.ca.gov\/programs\/resource-management\/resource-protection-improvement\/demonstration-state-forests\/soquel\/<\/a><\/p>\nUniversity of California Santa Cruz – UCSC<\/h3>\n
UCSC has many excellent bike trails on campus lands adjacent to the Campus Natural Reserve. Use of the campus trails, are encouraged. Riding bicycles in the reserve, on the trails or elsewhere, is prohibited<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate University of California Santa Cruz – UCSC 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA\u00a0 Campus Police at
Phone: (831) 459-2231
Website: https:\/\/maps.ucsc.edu\/printable-maps\/UCSC_upper_campus_map.pdf<\/p>\n
UCSC Upper Campus Natural Reserve<\/h3>\n
Major rating websites rate this trail 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 7487 Red Hill Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Phone:\u00a0(831) 459-4867
Website: https:\/\/maps.ucsc.edu\/printable-maps\/UCSC_upper_campus_map.pdf<\/a><\/p>\nSeep Zone Interpretive Trail<\/h3>\n
Major rating websites rate this trail 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address:\u00a07487 Red Hill Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Website: https:\/\/maps.ucsc.edu\/printable-maps\/UCSC_upper_campus_map.pdf<\/a><\/p>\nWilder Ranch State Park<\/h3>\n
The Park has 4,505 acres, with 34 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails winding through coastal terraces and valleys.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate this trail 4.3 to 4.7 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone:\u00a0(831) 423-9703
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=549<\/a><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Santa Cruz is home to a number of wonderful areas that are perfect for hiking and nature walks. To review our listings of hiking trails and nature walks, please scroll down the page. \u00a0 Santa Cruz Parks, Beaches and Nature Preserves \u00a0 Big Basin State Park\u2014Rancho Del Oso (Ocean end of the State Park) Due […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":1773,"menu_order":1,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"
Santa Cruz is home to a number of wonderful areas that are perfect for hiking and nature walks.<\/p>\r\n
\r\nTo review our listings of hiking trails and nature walks, please scroll down the page or click on Santa Cruz Area Hikes<\/a> or North Hwy 1 \u2500 including Davenport, Pescadero, and Half Moon Bay<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<\/a>Santa Cruz Parks, Beaches and Nature Preserves<\/h2>\r\nBig Basin -\u00a0Rancho Del Oso<\/a><\/h3>\r\nBig Basin Redwoods State Park<\/p>\r\n
Hwy 1 \u00a0 (831) 338-8860<\/p>\r\n
One of our favorite short hikes \u2013 around 1 \u00bd hours!<\/span><\/p>\r\nLocated 25 miles south of Half Moon Bay on Hwy. 1, the park has miles of trails, which serves hikers and equestrians, links Big Basin to Castle Rock State Park and the eastern reaches of the Santa Cruz range.\u00a0Maps<\/a> >><\/p>\r\n![\"Big](\"http:\/\/www.explorer1.com\/images\/camping\/big-basin1.jpg\")
Big Basin State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 338-8860<\/p>\r\n
The park has over 80 miles of trails. Be sure and pick up a map at park headquarters before your hike and take a look at the multimedia kiosk in the Sempervirens Room (next to park headquarters). There you will find great information, photos, and video of some of the most popular trails.<\/p>\r\n
De Laveaga Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n850 N. Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, CA<\/p>\r\n
Trails are open to hikers and bicyclists. Please stay on designated trails.<\/p>\r\n
Forest of Nisene Marks State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\nAptos Creek Road, Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 763-7062<\/p>\r\n
The park offers rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains of more than 2,600 feet.\u00a0 It has over 30 miles of hiking, jogging and biking trails.<\/p>\r\n
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n101 North Big Trees Park Road, Felton, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 438-2396<\/p>\r\n
This park features 15 miles of hiking and riding trails through a forest that looks much the same as it did 200 years ago.<\/p>\r\n
Long Ridge Open Space Preserve<\/a><\/h3>\r\nSkyline Boulevard, about 3.6 miles north of its intersection with Highway 9, and approximately 3.3 miles south of its intersection with Page Mill Road.<\/p>\r\n
Since one can take short hikes or rides to scenic overlooks or longer loop trips, the preserve is very popular with hikers, cyclists, and equestrians.<\/p>\r\n
Pogonip Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n333 Golf Club Drive, Santa Cruz, CA\u00a0 (831) 420-5270<\/p>\r\n
Pogonip features approximately 8 miles of hiking trails. In the northernmost portion of Pogonip, a multi-use trail (approximately one mile in length) is open hikers, bicyclists and equestrians. This multi-use trail provides a connection between Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Pogonip, and the upper UCSC campus. Bicycles and horses are prohibited on all other trails. Bicyclists must ride responsibly and at a safe speed.<\/p>\r\n
Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve<\/a><\/h3>\r\nSkyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Highway 9 intersection<\/p>\r\n
The two mile multi-use Saratoga Gap Trail provides great opportunities for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.<\/p>\r\n
Soquel Demonstration State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\nCalifornia Department of Forestry and Fire Protection<\/p>\r\n
4750 Old San Jose Road, Soquel, CA\u00a0 (831) 475-8643<\/p>\r\n
Offering almost 5 miles (out and back) trails, this preserve is extremely popular with mountain bikers.<\/p>\r\n
University of California Santa Cruz - UCSC<\/a><\/h3>\r\n1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA\u00a0 Campus Police at (831) 459-2231<\/p>\r\n
UCSC has many excellent bike trails on campus lands adjacent to the Campus Natural Reserve. Use of the campus trails, are encouraged. Riding bicycles in the reserve, on the trails or elsewhere, is prohibited<\/p>\r\n
Wilder Ranch State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\nLocated north of Santa Cruz, immediately west of Hwy 1\u00a0 (831) 423-9703<\/p>\r\n
The Park has 4,505 acres, with 34 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails winding through coastal terraces and valleys.<\/p>\r\n
\u00a0<\/h3>\r\n
\u00a0<\/p>\r\n<\/div>","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1813","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1813","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1813"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1813\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3818,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1813\/revisions\/3818"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1773"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1813"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Big Basin State Park\u2014Rancho Del Oso (Ocean end of the State Park)<\/em><\/h3>\nDue to the August 2020 wildfires, this park is temporarily closed.<\/span><\/p>\nLocated 20 miles north of Santa Cruz on Hwy. 1, the park has miles of trails, which serves hikers and equestrians, links Big Basin to Castle Rock State Park and the eastern reaches of the Santa Cruz range.\u00a0Maps<\/a><\/strong> >><\/p>\nOne of our favorite short hikes \u2013 around 1 \u00bd hours round trip \u2013 is located in the Rancho Del Oso section of the park by the ocean. For more information about his really fun hike, go to https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/big-basin-redwoods-state-park-rancho-del-oso\/<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\nAfter your hike or nature walk, walk across the highway to Waddle State Beach. It’s a parasailer’s paradise. Almost always windy, so you get a chance to see the bright colored sails dancing across the waves.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Rancho Del Oso 4.7 stars out of 5 . We love this place. Our rating is a solid 4.7 stars.<\/p>\n
Address: 3600 CA-1, Davenport, CA 95017
Phone:\u00a0(831) 427-2288
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=863<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nBig Basin State Park<\/a><\/h3>\n21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 338-8860<\/p>\n
Due to the August 2020 wildfires, this park is temporarily closed.<\/span><\/p>\nThe park has over 80 miles of trails. Be sure and pick up a map at park headquarters before your hike and take a look at the multimedia kiosk in the Sempervirens Room (next to park headquarters). There you will find great information, photos, and video of some of the most popular trails.<\/p>\n
Address: 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
Phone:\u00a0(831) 338-8861
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=540<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nDeLaveaga Park<\/h3>\n
Trails are open to hikers and bicyclists. Please stay on designated trails.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate DeLaveaga Park 4.2 to 4.6 stars out of 5. We rate it a solid 4.5 stars.<\/p>\n
Address: 850 N. Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, CA
Website: https:\/\/www.cityofsantacruz.com\/government\/city-departments\/parks-recreation\/parks-beaches-open-spaces\/parks\/delaveaga-park<\/a><\/p>\nForest of Nisene Marks State Park<\/h3>\n
The park offers rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains of more than 2,600 feet.\u00a0 It has over 30 miles of hiking, jogging and biking trails.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Forest of Nisene Marks State Park 4.3 to 4.8 stars out of 5. We rate it a solid 4.5 stars.<\/p>\n
Address: Aptos Creek Road, Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA
Phone: (831) 763-7062
Website: http:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=666<\/a><\/p>\nHenry Cowell Redwoods State Park<\/h3>\n
This park features 15 miles of hiking and riding trails through a forest that looks much the same as it did 200 years ago.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 4.2 to 5 stars out of 5. We rate it a solid 4.8 stars.<\/p>\n
Address: 101 North Big Trees Park Road, Felton, CA
Phone: (831) 438-2396
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=546<\/a><\/p>\nLong Ridge Open Space Preserve<\/h3>\n
Since one can take short hikes or rides to scenic overlooks or longer loop trips, the preserve is very popular with hikers, cyclists, and equestrians.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Long Ridge Open Space Preserve 4.5 to 4.7 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Located on Skyline Boulevard, about 3.6 miles north of its intersection with Highway 9, and approximately 3.3 miles south of its intersection with Page Mill Road.<\/p>\n
Address: La Honda, CA 94020
Phone:\u00a0(650) 691-1200
Website: https:\/\/www.openspace.org\/preserves\/long-ridge<\/a><\/p>\nPogonip Park<\/h3>\n
Pogonip features approximately 8 miles of hiking trails. In the northernmost portion of Pogonip, a multi-use trail (approximately one mile in length) is open hikers, bicyclists and equestrians. This multi-use trail provides a connection between Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Pogonip, and the upper UCSC campus. Bicycles and horses are prohibited on all other trails. Bicyclists must ride responsibly and at a safe speed.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Pogonip Park 4.2 to 4.6 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 333 Golf Club Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone:\u00a0(831) 420-5270
Website: https:\/\/www.cityofsantacruz.com\/government\/city-departments\/parks-recreation\/parks-beaches-open-spaces\/open-spaces\/pogonip<\/a><\/p>\nSaratoga Gap Open Space Preserve<\/h3>\n
The two mile multi-use Saratoga Gap Trail provides great opportunities for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve 4.5 to 4.7 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
located at Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Highway 9 intersection<\/p>\n
Address: 28798 Big Basin Way, Los Gatos, CA 95033
Phone:\u00a0(650) 691-1200
Website: https:\/\/www.openspace.org\/preserves\/saratoga-gap<\/a><\/p>\nSoquel Demonstration State Park<\/h3>\n
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection<\/p>\n
Offering almost 5 miles (out and back) trails, this preserve is extremely popular with mountain bikers.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 29400 Highland Way, Los Gatos, CA 95033
Phone:\u00a0(831) 475-8643
Website: https:\/\/www.fire.ca.gov\/programs\/resource-management\/resource-protection-improvement\/demonstration-state-forests\/soquel\/<\/a><\/p>\nUniversity of California Santa Cruz – UCSC<\/h3>\n
UCSC has many excellent bike trails on campus lands adjacent to the Campus Natural Reserve. Use of the campus trails, are encouraged. Riding bicycles in the reserve, on the trails or elsewhere, is prohibited<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate University of California Santa Cruz – UCSC 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA\u00a0 Campus Police at
Phone: (831) 459-2231
Website: https:\/\/maps.ucsc.edu\/printable-maps\/UCSC_upper_campus_map.pdf<\/p>\n
UCSC Upper Campus Natural Reserve<\/h3>\n
Major rating websites rate this trail 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 7487 Red Hill Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Phone:\u00a0(831) 459-4867
Website: https:\/\/maps.ucsc.edu\/printable-maps\/UCSC_upper_campus_map.pdf<\/a><\/p>\nSeep Zone Interpretive Trail<\/h3>\n
Major rating websites rate this trail 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address:\u00a07487 Red Hill Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
Website: https:\/\/maps.ucsc.edu\/printable-maps\/UCSC_upper_campus_map.pdf<\/a><\/p>\nWilder Ranch State Park<\/h3>\n
The Park has 4,505 acres, with 34 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails winding through coastal terraces and valleys.<\/p>\n
Major rating websites rate this trail 4.3 to 4.7 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n
Address: 1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Phone:\u00a0(831) 423-9703
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=549<\/a><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h3>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Santa Cruz is home to a number of wonderful areas that are perfect for hiking and nature walks. To review our listings of hiking trails and nature walks, please scroll down the page. \u00a0 Santa Cruz Parks, Beaches and Nature Preserves \u00a0 Big Basin State Park\u2014Rancho Del Oso (Ocean end of the State Park) Due […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":1773,"menu_order":1,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"
Santa Cruz is home to a number of wonderful areas that are perfect for hiking and nature walks.<\/p>\r\n
\r\nTo review our listings of hiking trails and nature walks, please scroll down the page or click on Santa Cruz Area Hikes<\/a> or North Hwy 1 \u2500 including Davenport, Pescadero, and Half Moon Bay<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<\/a>Santa Cruz Parks, Beaches and Nature Preserves<\/h2>\r\nBig Basin -\u00a0Rancho Del Oso<\/a><\/h3>\r\nBig Basin Redwoods State Park<\/p>\r\n
Hwy 1 \u00a0 (831) 338-8860<\/p>\r\n
One of our favorite short hikes \u2013 around 1 \u00bd hours!<\/span><\/p>\r\nLocated 25 miles south of Half Moon Bay on Hwy. 1, the park has miles of trails, which serves hikers and equestrians, links Big Basin to Castle Rock State Park and the eastern reaches of the Santa Cruz range.\u00a0Maps<\/a> >><\/p>\r\nBig Basin State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 338-8860<\/p>\r\n
The park has over 80 miles of trails. Be sure and pick up a map at park headquarters before your hike and take a look at the multimedia kiosk in the Sempervirens Room (next to park headquarters). There you will find great information, photos, and video of some of the most popular trails.<\/p>\r\n
De Laveaga Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n850 N. Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, CA<\/p>\r\n
Trails are open to hikers and bicyclists. Please stay on designated trails.<\/p>\r\n
Forest of Nisene Marks State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\nAptos Creek Road, Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 763-7062<\/p>\r\n
The park offers rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains of more than 2,600 feet.\u00a0 It has over 30 miles of hiking, jogging and biking trails.<\/p>\r\n
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n101 North Big Trees Park Road, Felton, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 438-2396<\/p>\r\n
This park features 15 miles of hiking and riding trails through a forest that looks much the same as it did 200 years ago.<\/p>\r\n
Long Ridge Open Space Preserve<\/a><\/h3>\r\nSkyline Boulevard, about 3.6 miles north of its intersection with Highway 9, and approximately 3.3 miles south of its intersection with Page Mill Road.<\/p>\r\n
Since one can take short hikes or rides to scenic overlooks or longer loop trips, the preserve is very popular with hikers, cyclists, and equestrians.<\/p>\r\n
Pogonip Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n333 Golf Club Drive, Santa Cruz, CA\u00a0 (831) 420-5270<\/p>\r\n
Pogonip features approximately 8 miles of hiking trails. In the northernmost portion of Pogonip, a multi-use trail (approximately one mile in length) is open hikers, bicyclists and equestrians. This multi-use trail provides a connection between Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Pogonip, and the upper UCSC campus. Bicycles and horses are prohibited on all other trails. Bicyclists must ride responsibly and at a safe speed.<\/p>\r\n
Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve<\/a><\/h3>\r\nSkyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Highway 9 intersection<\/p>\r\n
The two mile multi-use Saratoga Gap Trail provides great opportunities for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.<\/p>\r\n
Soquel Demonstration State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\nCalifornia Department of Forestry and Fire Protection<\/p>\r\n
4750 Old San Jose Road, Soquel, CA\u00a0 (831) 475-8643<\/p>\r\n
Offering almost 5 miles (out and back) trails, this preserve is extremely popular with mountain bikers.<\/p>\r\n
University of California Santa Cruz - UCSC<\/a><\/h3>\r\n1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA\u00a0 Campus Police at (831) 459-2231<\/p>\r\n
UCSC has many excellent bike trails on campus lands adjacent to the Campus Natural Reserve. Use of the campus trails, are encouraged. Riding bicycles in the reserve, on the trails or elsewhere, is prohibited<\/p>\r\n
Wilder Ranch State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\nLocated north of Santa Cruz, immediately west of Hwy 1\u00a0 (831) 423-9703<\/p>\r\n
The Park has 4,505 acres, with 34 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails winding through coastal terraces and valleys.<\/p>\r\n
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Located 20 miles north of Santa Cruz on Hwy. 1, the park has miles of trails, which serves hikers and equestrians, links Big Basin to Castle Rock State Park and the eastern reaches of the Santa Cruz range.\u00a0Maps<\/a><\/strong> >><\/p>\n One of our favorite short hikes \u2013 around 1 \u00bd hours round trip \u2013 is located in the Rancho Del Oso section of the park by the ocean. For more information about his really fun hike, go to https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/big-basin-redwoods-state-park-rancho-del-oso\/<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n After your hike or nature walk, walk across the highway to Waddle State Beach. It’s a parasailer’s paradise. Almost always windy, so you get a chance to see the bright colored sails dancing across the waves.<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate Rancho Del Oso 4.7 stars out of 5 . We love this place. Our rating is a solid 4.7 stars.<\/p>\n Address: 3600 CA-1, Davenport, CA 95017 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 338-8860<\/p>\n Due to the August 2020 wildfires, this park is temporarily closed.<\/span><\/p>\n The park has over 80 miles of trails. Be sure and pick up a map at park headquarters before your hike and take a look at the multimedia kiosk in the Sempervirens Room (next to park headquarters). There you will find great information, photos, and video of some of the most popular trails.<\/p>\n Address: 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA 95006 Trails are open to hikers and bicyclists. Please stay on designated trails.<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate DeLaveaga Park 4.2 to 4.6 stars out of 5. We rate it a solid 4.5 stars.<\/p>\n Address: 850 N. Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, CA The park offers rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains of more than 2,600 feet.\u00a0 It has over 30 miles of hiking, jogging and biking trails.<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate Forest of Nisene Marks State Park 4.3 to 4.8 stars out of 5. We rate it a solid 4.5 stars.<\/p>\n Address: Aptos Creek Road, Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA This park features 15 miles of hiking and riding trails through a forest that looks much the same as it did 200 years ago.<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 4.2 to 5 stars out of 5. We rate it a solid 4.8 stars.<\/p>\n Address: 101 North Big Trees Park Road, Felton, CA Since one can take short hikes or rides to scenic overlooks or longer loop trips, the preserve is very popular with hikers, cyclists, and equestrians.<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate Long Ridge Open Space Preserve 4.5 to 4.7 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n Located on Skyline Boulevard, about 3.6 miles north of its intersection with Highway 9, and approximately 3.3 miles south of its intersection with Page Mill Road.<\/p>\n Address: La Honda, CA 94020 Pogonip features approximately 8 miles of hiking trails. In the northernmost portion of Pogonip, a multi-use trail (approximately one mile in length) is open hikers, bicyclists and equestrians. This multi-use trail provides a connection between Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Pogonip, and the upper UCSC campus. Bicycles and horses are prohibited on all other trails. Bicyclists must ride responsibly and at a safe speed.<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate Pogonip Park 4.2 to 4.6 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n Address: 333 Golf Club Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 The two mile multi-use Saratoga Gap Trail provides great opportunities for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve 4.5 to 4.7 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n located at Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Highway 9 intersection<\/p>\n Address: 28798 Big Basin Way, Los Gatos, CA 95033 California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection<\/p>\n Offering almost 5 miles (out and back) trails, this preserve is extremely popular with mountain bikers.<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n Address: 29400 Highland Way, Los Gatos, CA 95033 UCSC has many excellent bike trails on campus lands adjacent to the Campus Natural Reserve. Use of the campus trails, are encouraged. Riding bicycles in the reserve, on the trails or elsewhere, is prohibited<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate University of California Santa Cruz – UCSC 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n Address: 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA\u00a0 Campus Police at Major rating websites rate this trail 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n Address: 7487 Red Hill Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95064 Major rating websites rate this trail 4.8 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n Address:\u00a07487 Red Hill Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95064 The Park has 4,505 acres, with 34 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails winding through coastal terraces and valleys.<\/p>\n Major rating websites rate this trail 4.3 to 4.7 stars out of 5.<\/p>\n Address: 1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 <\/p>\n<\/div>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Santa Cruz is home to a number of wonderful areas that are perfect for hiking and nature walks. To review our listings of hiking trails and nature walks, please scroll down the page. \u00a0 Santa Cruz Parks, Beaches and Nature Preserves \u00a0 Big Basin State Park\u2014Rancho Del Oso (Ocean end of the State Park) Due […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"parent":1773,"menu_order":1,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":" Santa Cruz is home to a number of wonderful areas that are perfect for hiking and nature walks.<\/p>\r\n To review our listings of hiking trails and nature walks, please scroll down the page or click on Santa Cruz Area Hikes<\/a> or North Hwy 1 \u2500 including Davenport, Pescadero, and Half Moon Bay<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n Big Basin Redwoods State Park<\/p>\r\n Hwy 1 \u00a0 (831) 338-8860<\/p>\r\n One of our favorite short hikes \u2013 around 1 \u00bd hours!<\/span><\/p>\r\n Located 25 miles south of Half Moon Bay on Hwy. 1, the park has miles of trails, which serves hikers and equestrians, links Big Basin to Castle Rock State Park and the eastern reaches of the Santa Cruz range.\u00a0Maps<\/a> >><\/p>\r\n 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 338-8860<\/p>\r\n The park has over 80 miles of trails. Be sure and pick up a map at park headquarters before your hike and take a look at the multimedia kiosk in the Sempervirens Room (next to park headquarters). There you will find great information, photos, and video of some of the most popular trails.<\/p>\r\n 850 N. Branciforte Drive, Santa Cruz, CA<\/p>\r\n Trails are open to hikers and bicyclists. Please stay on designated trails.<\/p>\r\n Aptos Creek Road, Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 763-7062<\/p>\r\n The park offers rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains of more than 2,600 feet.\u00a0 It has over 30 miles of hiking, jogging and biking trails.<\/p>\r\n 101 North Big Trees Park Road, Felton, CA\u00a0\u00a0 (831) 438-2396<\/p>\r\n This park features 15 miles of hiking and riding trails through a forest that looks much the same as it did 200 years ago.<\/p>\r\n Skyline Boulevard, about 3.6 miles north of its intersection with Highway 9, and approximately 3.3 miles south of its intersection with Page Mill Road.<\/p>\r\n Since one can take short hikes or rides to scenic overlooks or longer loop trips, the preserve is very popular with hikers, cyclists, and equestrians.<\/p>\r\n 333 Golf Club Drive, Santa Cruz, CA\u00a0 (831) 420-5270<\/p>\r\n Pogonip features approximately 8 miles of hiking trails. In the northernmost portion of Pogonip, a multi-use trail (approximately one mile in length) is open hikers, bicyclists and equestrians. This multi-use trail provides a connection between Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Pogonip, and the upper UCSC campus. Bicycles and horses are prohibited on all other trails. Bicyclists must ride responsibly and at a safe speed.<\/p>\r\n Skyline Boulevard (Highway 35) and Highway 9 intersection<\/p>\r\n The two mile multi-use Saratoga Gap Trail provides great opportunities for hikers, bikers, and equestrians.<\/p>\r\n California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection<\/p>\r\n 4750 Old San Jose Road, Soquel, CA\u00a0 (831) 475-8643<\/p>\r\n Offering almost 5 miles (out and back) trails, this preserve is extremely popular with mountain bikers.<\/p>\r\n 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA\u00a0 Campus Police at (831) 459-2231<\/p>\r\n UCSC has many excellent bike trails on campus lands adjacent to the Campus Natural Reserve. Use of the campus trails, are encouraged. Riding bicycles in the reserve, on the trails or elsewhere, is prohibited<\/p>\r\n Located north of Santa Cruz, immediately west of Hwy 1\u00a0 (831) 423-9703<\/p>\r\n The Park has 4,505 acres, with 34 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails winding through coastal terraces and valleys.<\/p>\r\n \u00a0<\/p>\r\n<\/div>","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1813","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1813","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1813"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1813\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3818,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1813\/revisions\/3818"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1773"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/explorer1.com\/santacruz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1813"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
Phone:\u00a0(831) 427-2288
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=863<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nBig Basin State Park<\/a><\/h3>\n
Phone:\u00a0(831) 338-8861
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=540<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\nDeLaveaga Park<\/h3>\n
Website: https:\/\/www.cityofsantacruz.com\/government\/city-departments\/parks-recreation\/parks-beaches-open-spaces\/parks\/delaveaga-park<\/a><\/p>\nForest of Nisene Marks State Park<\/h3>\n
Phone: (831) 763-7062
Website: http:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=666<\/a><\/p>\nHenry Cowell Redwoods State Park<\/h3>\n
Phone: (831) 438-2396
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=546<\/a><\/p>\nLong Ridge Open Space Preserve<\/h3>\n
Phone:\u00a0(650) 691-1200
Website: https:\/\/www.openspace.org\/preserves\/long-ridge<\/a><\/p>\nPogonip Park<\/h3>\n
Phone:\u00a0(831) 420-5270
Website: https:\/\/www.cityofsantacruz.com\/government\/city-departments\/parks-recreation\/parks-beaches-open-spaces\/open-spaces\/pogonip<\/a><\/p>\nSaratoga Gap Open Space Preserve<\/h3>\n
Phone:\u00a0(650) 691-1200
Website: https:\/\/www.openspace.org\/preserves\/saratoga-gap<\/a><\/p>\nSoquel Demonstration State Park<\/h3>\n
Phone:\u00a0(831) 475-8643
Website: https:\/\/www.fire.ca.gov\/programs\/resource-management\/resource-protection-improvement\/demonstration-state-forests\/soquel\/<\/a><\/p>\nUniversity of California Santa Cruz – UCSC<\/h3>\n
Phone: (831) 459-2231
Website: https:\/\/maps.ucsc.edu\/printable-maps\/UCSC_upper_campus_map.pdf<\/p>\nUCSC Upper Campus Natural Reserve<\/h3>\n
Phone:\u00a0(831) 459-4867
Website: https:\/\/maps.ucsc.edu\/printable-maps\/UCSC_upper_campus_map.pdf<\/a><\/p>\nSeep Zone Interpretive Trail<\/h3>\n
Website: https:\/\/maps.ucsc.edu\/printable-maps\/UCSC_upper_campus_map.pdf<\/a><\/p>\nWilder Ranch State Park<\/h3>\n
Phone:\u00a0(831) 423-9703
Website: https:\/\/www.parks.ca.gov\/?page_id=549<\/a><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h3>\n
<\/a>Santa Cruz Parks, Beaches and Nature Preserves<\/h2>\r\n
Big Basin -\u00a0Rancho Del Oso<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
Big Basin State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\nDe Laveaga Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
Forest of Nisene Marks State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
Long Ridge Open Space Preserve<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
Pogonip Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
Saratoga Gap Open Space Preserve<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
Soquel Demonstration State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
University of California Santa Cruz - UCSC<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
Wilder Ranch State Park<\/a><\/h3>\r\n
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