Posts Tagged: First Day Hikes

History Under the Trees

a trail recedes into redwood trees
Delve into forest history—and prehistory—while walking to the abandoned Loma Prieta townsite and discovering marine fossils deep in the redwood forest. Bring water, snacks, and layered clothing. Meet at George’s picnic area next to the steel bridge before the winter gate. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $8. Limited parking; carpooling encouraged. For more information, call (831) 685-6444.

Sunset Stroll

two people walk along a calm beach at dusk
Join us for a low tide and sunset stroll on a 2-mile roundtrip adventure from New Brighton State Beach to Capitola. Walking this stretch of beach just before sunset is rarely possible, so you won’t want to miss it! We will encounter interesting geologic features in a coastal bluff, 5-million-year-old whale fossils, shell fossils, tide pool creatures such as crabs, chitons, anemones, small fish, and the elusive octopus, and cover the natural history of the area. We will return to New Brighton around 4pm, and may remain on the beach until sunset. Bring water, snacks, identification guides, and proper footwear—feet may get wet! Meet on the beach below day use parking lot. 
For more information, please call (831) 685-6444. Event free. Vehicle day use fee is $10.

Castle Rock First Day Hike

the sun shines behind a pile of rocks in a forest
Join us on a 1.5-mile, 2-hour hike to Castle Rock and Castle Rock Falls. During this trip, we will discuss Castle Rock’s unique geology, plant diversity, human impacts, and various important preservationists that helped give Castle Rock State Park the protections we have today. Bring water, closed toe shoes, camera, and snacks. Meet at kiosk. For more information, call (831) 291-8273. Event free. Vehicle day use fee is $10.

Buzzard’s Roost Hike

Join docents Kathy Willott and Glenn Joy for a 5-mile hike to Buzzard’s Roost. We’ll take an early hike in hopes of seeing things that might be hiding later in the day and share our findings as we go. We’ll watch the environment change as we climb and enjoy the view from the top. Hikers should be able to do a steady uphill grade for 2.5 miles (elevation gain about 1,200 ft.), but we’ll go at a pace that allows us to enjoy what we see. Wear good walking shoes, dress in layers, and bring snacks. Meet at park headquarters. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.
For more information, call (831) 338-8883.

Begin your New Year at New Brighton

Experience an unforgettable negative tide and do what is rarely possible – walk the 2-mile roundtrip adventure along the beach from New Brighton to Capitola just before sunset. This staff-and-volunteer-led hike will meet on the sand at New Brighton State Beach just below the day use parking lot. Bring water, snacks, and proper footwear—feet may get wet. We will encounter interesting geologic features in a coastal bluff, 5-million-year-old whale fossils, shell fossils, tide pool creatures such as crabs, chitons, anemones, small fish, and the elusive octopus, and cover the natural history of the area. We will return to New Brighton around 4pm, and may remain on the beach until sunset.

Engelsman Loop First Day Hike

On this 3.6-mile, 2-hour moderate hike we’ll explore the natural and cultural history of the upper hills of Wilder Ranch. This hike includes several descents and ascents. Meet at the Interpretive Center. Please no pets. Event is free; vehicle day use fee is $10. For more information, please call (831) 426-0505.

Gardens of Time First Day Hike

Stroll through history as you visit the various gardens within our courtyard and patio at the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park. We can learn a good deal about people who lived here in the past by exploring the plants they used and cultivated. Tour our native plant gardens, demonstration vegetable beds and Victorian “Nearyland”. Take home history in a seed. Event is free; rain cancels. For more information, please call (831) 425-5849.

Bird Walk First Day Hike

Join us for a stroll through the habitats of Natural Bridges State Beach to discover wintertime birds. Participants should expect to stop frequently, stand still, and listen quietly during the walk. Birders of all experience levels are welcome, from first timers to avid experts. Event is free; vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, please call (831) 423-4609 ext. 8.

McNee Ranch First Day Hike

Join us for a moderate 2-mile, 2-hour hike along the scenic Gray Whale Cove Trail at McNee Ranch, Montara State Beach. Discover ocean views, coastal plants, wildlife, and historic sites. Rain cancels; event is free. Meet at the north side of the Gray Whale Cove State Beach parking lot on Highway 1 just south of the Tom Lantos tunnel. For more information, please call 650-726-8814. Event is free.

Sequoia Audubon Trail First Day Hike

Enjoy an easy 2-mile hike along the California coast into the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve and visit popular spots for good bird watching. Bring water and good walking shoes and dress for the weather. Meet at the Pescadero State Beach central parking lot on Highway 1, approximately 0.25 miles north of Pescadero Creek Road. For more information, please call (650) 726-8814. Event free.