01
Best overall coastal hike
Wilder Ranch State Park
North Coast, Off Highway 1 • Blufftop Coastal And Ranchland Trails • Signature Oceanview Hike
Miles of clifftop singletrack and ranch roads trace the edge of the Pacific just a few minutes north of town.
If you want that classic Santa Cruz mix of ocean, cliffs, and rolling green hills, Wilder is the go‑to choice. The Old Cove Landing and Ohlone Bluff routes are straightforward, scenic walks with constant views of sea stacks, arches, and working farmland. It gets busy on sunny weekends, so duck onto the inland loops if you want a quieter feel and more wildlife.
02
Iconic redwood forest stroll
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Felton, Along Highway 9 • Classic Redwood State Park • Best First‑Time Redwood Stop
A short, flat loop through towering old‑growth redwoods anchors a larger network of canyon and ridge trails.
The Redwood Grove Loop near the main day‑use lot is an easy, crowd‑pleasing walk that still feels impressive, with massive trees and filtered light even on hot days. If you have more time, connect out toward the River Trail or climb up to the observation deck for views over the San Lorenzo Valley. Parking fills fast in summer, so early starts or weekday visits are your friend.
03
Best for an all‑day escape
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
Aptos, Up The Canyon From The Village • Deep Redwood Canyon And Ridge Network • Quiet Long‑Mileage Option
Steep side canyons, old logging roads, and shaded singletrack make this the place to go when you want to disappear into the woods.
Nisene Marks feels wilder than its proximity to Aptos suggests, with long, gradual climbs and hushed creek draws that reward unhurried days. Many locals start on the fire road from the lower lot, then branch onto trails like Bridge Creek or West Ridge for more solitude and better workout. Cell service drops quickly here, so plan your route in advance and pack as if you’re truly in the backcountry.
04
Quick in‑town escape
Pogonip Open Space
Above Ucsc And The Upper Westside • Urban‑Edge Meadows And Mixed Forest • Best Close‑To‑Downtown Loop
A patchwork of shaded ravines, eucalyptus groves, and open meadows sits surprisingly close to Pacific Avenue and campus.
Pogonip is where a lot of locals go when they only have an hour or two but still want dirt underfoot. The main loop options roll gently across old ranch roads and narrower trails, with enough elevation changes to keep things interesting and views stretching toward the bay in the clearings. Trails are shared with bikers in places, so stay aware and favor early mornings if you prefer a quieter feel.
05
Historic mountain wilderness
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Boulder Creek, Deep In The Santa Cruz Mountains • Expansive Redwood Backcountry • Most Dramatic Forest Setting
California’s oldest state park still offers striking redwood canyons and longer routes, even with ongoing post‑fire recovery.
Access, facilities, and specific trails continue to evolve here, but the scale of the trees and depth of the canyons are hard to beat when open. Expect a more rugged, work‑in‑progress experience than at other parks: routes may be re‑routed, and services are minimal, but the sense of history and resilience is strong. Check current conditions before you go, and treat any open trails as a privilege worth taking slowly.