01
Best wild sandhills hike
Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve
Bonny Doon Ridge • Quiet Sandhills Preserve • Best For Wildflower Wanderers
Short, sandy loops wind through rare pine forest and open "moon rocks" with big-sky ridge views.
This is the closest true hike to Bonny Doon itself, with soft, sandy singletrack threading through a rare Santa Cruz sandhills ecosystem. Expect sun, scrub, twisted pines, and pockets of wildflowers rather than deep shade, so bring water and a hat. The compact network makes it easy to tailor a quick leg-stretcher or a meandering afternoon wander without straying far from town.
02
Classic redwood canyon loop
Fall Creek Unit, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
North Of Felton • Shady Redwood Canyon Trails • Local Favorite
A cool, rushing creek and mossy redwood canyon make this one of the most beloved all-day hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
From the trailhead, paths quickly drop into a hushed canyon where bridges and side trails crisscross Fall Creek. You get a mix of creekside walking, relics of old lime kilns, and steady but manageable elevation changes that keep things interesting without feeling punishing. It’s a go-to option on hot days when you want deep shade, running water, and a full forest immersion within an easy drive of Bonny Doon.
03
Best oceanfront ramble
Old Cove Landing & Ohlone Bluff, Wilder Ranch State Park
North Coast, Off Highway 1 • Clifftop Coastal Trail Network • Best Ocean Views
Gentle trails trace the edge of the bluffs above crashing surf, sea caves, and wind-scoured headlands.
If you want salt air more than steep climbing, head to Wilder Ranch just down the hill from Bonny Doon. The Old Cove Landing and Ohlone Bluff trails serve up wide-open views, sea birds, and the chance to spot whales or dolphins from the cliff edge. The mostly level paths and frequent side coves make this an easy pick for mixed groups who want a big coastal payoff without a big workout.
04
Best forest-and-creek combo
Laguna Creek Trail
Between Bonny Doon And Coast Road • Mixed Forest And Creek Corridor • Best Half-Day Loop
A quieter corridor linking forest, creek, and sandhills offers a satisfying, less-traveled alternative to the bigger parks.
Laguna Creek threads its way down a cool, wooded ravine, with side trails that connect toward the Bonny Doon Ecological Reserve. The route feels tucked away, with a mix of firs, tanoaks, and glimpses of the creek that make it ideal when you want variety without driving far. It’s a great choice for hikers who already know the headliners and are ready for a more low-key, locals’ route.
05
Most adventurous outing
Castle Rock State Park
Summit Of The Santa Cruz Mountains • Rocky Ridge And Forest Hikes • Best For Adventurous Scramblers
Sandstone outcrops, sweeping valley views, and tight singletrack give these mountain-top trails a more rugged feel.
A bit farther from Bonny Doon but well within day-trip range, Castle Rock rewards the drive with sculpted sandstone, airy overlooks, and a more mountain-like character. The main Castle Rock and Saratoga Gap loops mix short scrambles, shaded forest stretches, and big views toward the South Bay and Pacific on clear days. It’s the spot to choose when you want your hike to feel like an adventure rather than just a walk in the woods.