01
Best redwood escape
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
Aptos Foothills • Shady Redwood Canyon Network • Best All-Day Adventure
A steep, forested park with miles of trails where you can quickly leave the crowds behind and disappear into the redwoods.
Just inland from Seacliff, Nisene Marks offers everything from mellow creekside walks to long, leg-burning climbs on old logging roads. It’s the place to go when you want cool shade, quiet, and the feeling of being deep in the woods without driving up to the high mountains. Start with the flatter trails along Aptos Creek, then work up to the ridge routes if you’re craving elevation.
02
Best oceanfront hike
Wilder Ranch State Park
North Of Santa Cruz • Historic Coastal Ranch And Bluff Trails • Best Coastal Views
A classic coastal park where clifftop trails, pocket beaches, and working ranch history share the same stretch of shoreline.
The bluff trail at Wilder Ranch is all about ocean drama: sea caves, rocky coves, and wide-open Pacific views for nearly the entire hike. Trails are mostly gentle and exposed, which makes this a good choice for breezy, clear days when you want sun and scenery rather than shade. Keep an eye out for whales in winter and spring, and be ready for wind any time of year.
03
Easiest coastal stroll
Seacliff to New Brighton Coastal Walk
Seacliff Shoreline • Easy Beachfront Promenade And Bluff Walk • Best Beginner-Friendly Stroll
A relaxed out-and-back along the sand and bluffs linking Seacliff and New Brighton State Beach.
If you want a low-commitment outing you can start right from Seacliff, this walk is ideal. Follow the wide beach at lower tides or use the paved and dirt paths above the bluffs for an easygoing route with steady ocean views. It’s perfect for stretching your legs before or after lunch, and you can shorten or extend it depending on how far the day takes you.
04
Best classic redwood loop
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
San Lorenzo River Canyon Near Felton • Classic Old-Growth Redwood Park • Best Mix Of Short And Long Options
A go-to park for towering old-growth redwoods, riverside trails, and easy loops that can be linked into longer hikes.
Henry Cowell’s main redwood loop is a short walk that still feels impressive, thanks to some of the tallest and widest trees in the county. From there, a web of trails leads toward the river, sandy benches, and oak-studded hillsides if you want to turn the visit into a half- or full-day outing. It’s a great choice when you’re hiking with a mixed group and need both simple and more involved options from the same trailhead.
05
Best in-town escape
Pogonip Open Space
Santa Cruz Upper Westside • Oak Meadows And Mixed Forest Open Space • Best Close-To-Town Escape
A patchwork of singletrack and old ranch roads where you can weave between grassy meadows, redwoods, and city overlooks.
Pogonip sits just above Santa Cruz, but once you’re on the trail it feels much farther from town than it is. Loops here tend to be moderate, with enough up-and-down to feel like a real hike without committing to a huge day. Views open up toward the bay in places, and the mix of habitats keeps even shorter outings interesting if you’re squeezing in a quick hike between other plans.