Santa Cruz is a paradise for hikers, offering a unique mix of coastal beauty, lush redwood forests, and mountain views. Whether you are a casual walker or a seasoned adventurer, the region’s trails deliver both relaxation and challenge. One of the most popular spots is Wilder Ranch State Park, where trails like the Old Cove Landing showcase sweeping views of rugged cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. In spring, wildflowers line the bluffs, and lucky hikers might even spot migrating whales. For a longer adventure, the Wilder Ridge Trail takes you through rolling grasslands, oak groves, and panoramic viewpoints of Monterey Bay.
Waterfall seekers, Big Basin Redwoods State Park California’s oldest state park—has famous routes like the Berry Creek Falls Loop. This challenging hike winds through ancient redwoods and leads to a stunning waterfall surrounded by mossy canyon walls. Adventurers looking for multi-day treks can tackle the legendary Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail, stretching nearly 30 miles from the mountains down to Waddell Beach.
If towering trees call to you, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is the perfect destination. The park features gentle loops through giant redwood groves, as well as more demanding routes like the Observation Deck Trail, which rewards hikers with a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and the bay. Similarly, the Forest of Nisene Marks offers tranquil, shaded trails, ideal for long hikes or trail running amid second-growth redwoods and peaceful creeks. Closer to town, shorter hikes like Davenport Bluffs and Lighthouse Field offer breathtaking sunset views over the ocean, making them ideal for evening strolls. Santa Cruz trails are more than just pathways they are opportunities to connect with nature, improve fitness, and experience the diverse beauty of California’s Central Coast.
