01
Closest in-town escape
Upper DeLaveaga Loop, DeLaveaga Park
Delaveaga Park Hills • Shaded Mixed-Forest Loop With City Overlooks • Quick Everyday Workout
A convenient loop through DeLaveaga’s upper slopes with enough climb and views to feel like a real outing without leaving town.
Starting from the upper park near the ballfields, this loop dives into second-growth redwoods, oaks, and madrone before popping out at a few peek-a-boo viewpoints over Santa Cruz. The terrain undulates more than it climbs steeply, making it ideal for dog walks, light trail runs, or working up a sweat after work. Expect a mix of singletrack and wider paths, plus the occasional disc golfer crossing between fairways.
02
Best flowy singletrack
Emma McCrary & U-Con Loop
Pogonip And Ucsc Upper Campus • Rolling Redwood Singletrack • Best For Moderate Workouts
A smooth, flowing climb through redwoods onto the UCSC ridge, with a fun descent and just enough elevation to feel accomplished.
Park near the Golf Club Drive trailhead and follow Emma McCrary’s gentle grade as it winds through ferns, bay laurel, and tall redwoods. U-Con continues the climb toward campus with steady switchbacks, popular with both hikers and mountain bikers, so stay aware on corners. On clear days, glimpses of the bay and the sense of being tucked into a quiet forest make the loop feel far from town.
03
Classic redwood experience
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Felton / San Lorenzo Valley • Old-Growth Redwood And River Trails • Best For Mixed Groups
From flat redwood groves to longer river and ridge hikes, Henry Cowell offers something for everyone in one easy stop.
The main day-use area off Highway 9 is a go-to for first-time visitors thanks to its short, accessible loop through towering old-growth redwoods. More experienced hikers can extend onto the River Trail or up toward the Observation Deck for sandy climbs, broad views, and fewer crowds. Arrive early on summer weekends if you want quieter trails and easier parking.
04
Best ocean views
Wilder Ranch State Park – Old Cove Landing Trail
North Coast Bluffs • Coastal Bluff And Farm Country Loop • Scenic Half-Day Outing
A mostly level coastal walk with sea cliffs, pocket coves, and farm history, perfect when you want big views more than big elevation.
Starting at the historic ranch complex off Highway 1, the Old Cove Landing route heads out across open fields before hugging the edge of the bluffs above crashing surf. Sea arches, nesting seabirds, and the chance for whale or dolphin sightings keep the scenery changing even though the trail is gentle. Bring layers, because wind can whip across the fields even on sunny days.
05
Most immersive forest escape
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
Aptos Redwood Canyon • Deep Redwood Canyon Network • All-Day Exploration Spot
A sprawling maze of cool, shaded redwood gullies and ridges that rewards curiosity and longer legs.
Just inland from Aptos, Nisene Marks trades ocean views for the quiet sound of creeks and wind in the redwood canopy. You can keep things mellow on fire roads along Aptos Creek or branch onto steeper singletrack toward Sand Point or Bridge Creek if you want more challenge. The park feels wilder than its distance from town suggests, so carry a map or downloaded route if you plan to wander off the main canyon.