Walking amongst beautiful surroundings is great for the body and mind. Fresh air, exercise, and a chance to let your thoughts wander if only for a few moments--hiking in Santa Cruz has many wonderful spots to choose from.
Rather than pointing out the obvious, popular spots like West Cliff, Pogonip, Nisene Marks, UCSC, and Wilder Ranch, let's explore some of the equally beautiful, but less crowded trails.
- Fall Creek, nestled in the Felton redwoods, offers many breathtaking trails for both beginner and seasoned hikers. Trickling waterfalls, lush foliage and fresh mountain air will surround you.
- Land of Medicine Buddha has miles of tranquil scenery within which you can meander and introspect. Bring a journal. Aside from the staggeringly tall trees under which you can rest, if you take the 8 Verses Pilgrimage Trail, you will see signs posted with the 8 Verses of Thought Transformation by Langri Tangpa. Benches are conveniently placed, inviting you to sit and contemplate the meaning of life.
- Henry Cowell south entrance has several steep hills right from the start. Breathtaking views and a babbling brook reward you as you make your way deeper into the forest. Try making it all the way to the Lookout Bench for a view of Santa Cruz and the Monterey Bay.
- DeLaveaga fire trail winds up above popular DeLaveaga Park and takes you through a thicket of trees till you reach the golf course. It's a nice aerobic climb, but only steep in a few areas and only a couple of miles long. The paths are wide enough to bring a canine companion.
- Neary Lagoon Wildlife Refuge offers up a short one-mile, leisurely stroll on a floating wooden dock surrounded by ducks and other wildlife. Optimal if you want to take in some nature when you don't have much time or energy.
Here is a map with all of these walks marked.
Explore one of these walks each week. By the end of five weeks, you will have familiarized yourself with some of Santa Cruz's finest views while doing something healthy for yourself.
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