Best Hikes in Santa Cruz: A Nature Lover’s Dream
Santa Cruz, California, is known for its breathtaking coastline, towering redwood forests, and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a local or considering making Santa Cruz your home, exploring the area’s best hiking trails is a must. As a local realtor, I know that access to the outdoors is a major draw for homebuyers, and Santa Cruz offers some of the best hiking in Northern California. Let’s explore the top trails you won’t want to miss!
1. Wilder Ranch State Park
Distance: Varies (Most popular loop: 7.5 miles)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Ocean views, coastal bluffs, historic ranch
Wilder Ranch State Park is a must-visit for those who love a blend of coastal views and countryside charm. The Old Cove Landing Trail offers an easy hike with spectacular cliffside ocean views—perfect for a peaceful stroll or a scenic jog. If you’re dreaming of living in a neighborhood with quick access to nature and the coast, homes near Wilder Ranch are an excellent choice!
2. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Distance: 0.8 to 10 miles
Difficulty: Easy to strenuous
Highlights: Majestic redwoods, river access, wildlife
If walking among towering redwoods sounds like your ideal day, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is the place for you. The Redwood Grove Loop Trail is a peaceful 0.8-mile walk, perfect for families or a relaxing morning hike. For a more challenging adventure, explore the Fall Creek Unit trails, where you’ll encounter lush forests and historic lime kilns. Living near Henry Cowell means enjoying year-round access to some of Santa Cruz’s most peaceful and scenic hiking trails.
3. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
Distance: 1 to 11 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Highlights: Dense forest, waterfalls, historic sites
Tucked away in Aptos, The Forest of Nisene Marks offers over 30 miles of trails through dense redwood forests. For a great workout, take the Five Finger Falls Trail or the Aptos Creek Fire Road, which offer a more challenging trek. If you’re in the mood for something easier, the Old Growth Loop provides a scenic, peaceful walk. Homes near Nisene Marks offer a quiet, wooded escape just minutes from the beach—perfect for those who want the best of both worlds.
4. UC Santa Cruz Upper Campus Trails
Distance: Varies (3 to 10 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic ocean views, meadows, redwood forests
For a hidden gem with fewer crowds, the Upper Campus Trails at UC Santa Cruz are a must-see. These trails wind through beautiful meadows, towering redwoods, and offer panoramic views of the Monterey Bay. The Lookout Trail is a popular choice, providing stunning vistas that make the moderate hike worthwhile. The Upper Campus area is perfect for those who want to live close to nature while still being near the heart of Santa Cruz.
5. Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Distance: Varies (Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail: 30 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Highlights: Waterfalls, old-growth redwoods, panoramic views
Big Basin, California’s oldest state park, is slowly reopening after recovering from recent wildfires. The Berry Creek Falls Trail is one of its most iconic hikes, leading to stunning waterfalls hidden deep within the redwoods. With nearby communities offering a peaceful mountain retreat, this area is perfect for homebuyers looking for seclusion and scenic beauty.