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Superlatives define Big Basin Redwoods State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountains. California’s oldest state park - covering more than 18,000 acres from sea level to more than 2,000 feet elevation - launched the state park movement in California. Big Basin’s biggest attraction – literally – is a rare stand of awe-inspiring, ancient coast redwoods that are among the tallest and oldest trees on Earth. Some measure close to 300 feet tall and 50 feet in circumference. Scientists estimate that these trees may range from 1,000 to 2,000 years old.
Spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, lush waterfalls, more than 80 miles of roads and trails, and a fascinating natural and cultural history have beckoned millions of visitors to Big Basin since 1902.
California State Park Foundation member discounts are available for this park. If you are a member, sign in to see the discount here.
Report a compliment or problem regarding park maintenance issues with the Park Observation Program.
Ecology & Vegetation
Some redwoods measure more than 300 feet tall and 50 feet in circumference. However, with no taproot, redwood trees rely on a network of far-reaching roots about six feet deep, intertwined with those of other redwoods. Soil compaction is a danger to these roots. Knob cone pine, Douglas-fir, red alder, madrone, chinquapin and buckeye also grow here. The forest’s tanoak tree bark once provided tannin for local leather tanneries. Huckleberry, azaleas, ferns, Manzanita, Indian paintbrush, poppies and wild orchids dot the park.
Some redwoods measure more than 300 feet tall and 50 feet in circumference. However, with no taproot, redwood trees rely on a network of far-reaching roots about six feet deep, intertwined with those of other redwoods. Soil compaction is a danger to these roots. Knob cone pine, Douglas-fir, red alder, madrone, chinquapin and buckeye also grow here. The forest’s tanoak tree bark once provided tannin for local leather tanneries. Huckleberry, azaleas, ferns, Manzanita, Indian paintbrush, poppies and wild orchids dot the park.
Wildlife, Geology & Climate
Foxes, coyotes and bobcats live throughout the park. Banana slugs feed on organic matter, plants and mushrooms on the forest floor. Newts, lizards and frogs are bountiful in the coast’s damp, moist climate. California quail, brown creepers, various woodpeckers, owls and flickers are some
common bird species found in the park. Be alert for rattlesnakes, poison oak and ticks. Use caution if you see a mountain lion; report aggressive encounters to park staff.
Geologically, the park’s rock formations are a “Franciscan assemblage”—outcrops of serpentinite, basalt, limestone, ribbon chert, graywacke sandstone and shale.
Each season offers a different park experience. The intense greens of mosses contrast with the subtle colors of lichens and mushrooms during wet winters. Rushing waterfalls and wildflowers abound in the cool, foggy spring. Find a shady getaway from inland heat in summertime. Fall offers pleasant weather without storms, pests or extreme heat.
Climate change affects the redwood forest. Coast redwoods receive much of their water and nutrients from fog drippings. Mature redwoods can survive, but fewer foggy days mean fewer seedlings mature into trees.
Foxes, coyotes and bobcats live throughout the park. Banana slugs feed on organic matter, plants and mushrooms on the forest floor. Newts, lizards and frogs are bountiful in the coast’s damp, moist climate. California quail, brown creepers, various woodpeckers, owls and flickers are some
common bird species found in the park. Be alert for rattlesnakes, poison oak and ticks. Use caution if you see a mountain lion; report aggressive encounters to park staff.
Geologically, the park’s rock formations are a “Franciscan assemblage”—outcrops of serpentinite, basalt, limestone, ribbon chert, graywacke sandstone and shale.
Each season offers a different park experience. The intense greens of mosses contrast with the subtle colors of lichens and mushrooms during wet winters. Rushing waterfalls and wildflowers abound in the cool, foggy spring. Find a shady getaway from inland heat in summertime. Fall offers pleasant weather without storms, pests or extreme heat.
Climate change affects the redwood forest. Coast redwoods receive much of their water and nutrients from fog drippings. Mature redwoods can survive, but fewer foggy days mean fewer seedlings mature into trees.
History
As early as 1852, Californians argued to save the Santa Cruz coast redwoods. In the 1880s, coast redwood-covered land usually sold for $15 an acre. In 1882, settler Tom Maddock and his 11-year-old son built a home from a single redwood tree on their 160-acre claim of virgin forest, purchased for just $7.50. The Maddock cabin burned in the 1950s; its site is marked with interpretive panels along the Skyline to the Sea Trail.
Newspaper editor Ralph S. Smith, a San Mateo County native, championed the idea of a redwood state park not only for tourism, but also for science. In March 1901, a State bill created California Redwood Park (renamed Big Basin Redwoods State Park in 1927). The bill also established the California Redwood Park Commission. In 1906, after much debate, the commission acquired 3,901 acres from the Big Basin Lumber Company through purchase and donation. Another 3,785 acres were converted from federal land to the state park in 1916.
Currently comprising more than 18,000 acres, the park continues to grow through partnerships with private nonprofit groups like the Save the Redwoods League and the Sempervirens Fund. Sentiments about “using” the park have changed over the years, from initially preserving the pristine forest to the resort-use era of the 1930s to the 1950s. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps cut down redwoods to build the Nature Lodge, Park Headquarters, campfire center, a footbridge, cabins, stoves and trails.
Today, preservation of the park’s natural wonders has returned to the forefront. The emphasis is preservation of the forest’s entire ecology, with its significant geologic features, wildlife corridors and massive watershed.
As early as 1852, Californians argued to save the Santa Cruz coast redwoods. In the 1880s, coast redwood-covered land usually sold for $15 an acre. In 1882, settler Tom Maddock and his 11-year-old son built a home from a single redwood tree on their 160-acre claim of virgin forest, purchased for just $7.50. The Maddock cabin burned in the 1950s; its site is marked with interpretive panels along the Skyline to the Sea Trail.
Newspaper editor Ralph S. Smith, a San Mateo County native, championed the idea of a redwood state park not only for tourism, but also for science. In March 1901, a State bill created California Redwood Park (renamed Big Basin Redwoods State Park in 1927). The bill also established the California Redwood Park Commission. In 1906, after much debate, the commission acquired 3,901 acres from the Big Basin Lumber Company through purchase and donation. Another 3,785 acres were converted from federal land to the state park in 1916.
Currently comprising more than 18,000 acres, the park continues to grow through partnerships with private nonprofit groups like the Save the Redwoods League and the Sempervirens Fund. Sentiments about “using” the park have changed over the years, from initially preserving the pristine forest to the resort-use era of the 1930s to the 1950s. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps cut down redwoods to build the Nature Lodge, Park Headquarters, campfire center, a footbridge, cabins, stoves and trails.
Today, preservation of the park’s natural wonders has returned to the forefront. The emphasis is preservation of the forest’s entire ecology, with its significant geologic features, wildlife corridors and massive watershed.
Accessible Features
Camping
Blooms Creek Campground. Five campsites are accessible. Restroom and showers are accessible. Parking: Some restrooms have adjacent accessible parking. Routes of travel between campsites and restrooms are generally accessible, and distances from sites are all within 150 feet.
Semperverins Campground Two campsites are accessible. Restrooms with showers are accessible.
Huckleberry Campground One campsite is accessibly designed and located adjacent to an accessible restroom.
Tent Cabins. Three tent cabins in Huckleberry that are designated accessible have sloped entry ramps that may require assistance. Restroom with showers are accessible. Parking: Each cabin has a parking spur with generally firm but unmarked surfaces. Route of travel to ramps is flat and usable.
Sequoia Group Camp Restroom with showers are accessible and include van accessible parking. Further site improvements are pending.
Make Campground Reservations
Picnic Area
The main picnic area has about 15 accessible picnic tables. Parking: Accessible parking and routes of travel to 6 sites are available. Restroom in main parking lot and picnic area and routes of travel to them are accessible.
Trails
The Redwood Loop Trail is a 1/2 mile loop through ancient redwood stands. It is located near the Park Headquarters Accessible parking and restrooms nearby. The surface is compacted soil. This is Big Basin’s most popular hike.
The Campground Connector Trail begins at the Blooms Creek Campground and provides accessible trail linkage to the Redwood Loop Trail and Park Headquarters. Accessible parking is available at both ends. An accessible campsite and bathroom is available near the trailhead in the Blooms Creek Campground. Trail length is 1/2 mile.
The Skyline to the Sea Trail (Accessible Section): This section of the Skyline to the Sea Trail is accessible from the Headquarters Area for approximately ¼ mile. The out and back trail section is surfaced with compacted gravel and soil and has accessible parking at the trailhead, which serves both the Skyline to the Sea Trail (Accessible Section) and the Redwood Loop Trail. Accessible restrooms are located nearby.
Exhibits/Programs
Visitor Center: The Semperverins Room visitor center is located in the park headquarters building. The room and its exhibits are generally accessible. Restroom. Restrooms inside the buildings are not located or designed for wheelchair access. Restrooms near the main picnic area are usable. Route of travel to visitor center is generally accessible, but assistance may be needed with historic doors entering exhibit room.
Other Information
Rancho del Oso / Waddell Creek Area: located on the western edge of the park, accessible by vehicle from Highway 1, the Rancho del Oso Nature Center is accessible including parking, restroom and picnic sites.
West of Highway 1 there is an ocean overlook parking area with accessible parking and restroom and directly across Highway 1 to the east an equestrian staging area has accessible parking restroom and horse mounting platform.
Camping
Blooms Creek Campground. Five campsites are accessible. Restroom and showers are accessible. Parking: Some restrooms have adjacent accessible parking. Routes of travel between campsites and restrooms are generally accessible, and distances from sites are all within 150 feet.
Semperverins Campground Two campsites are accessible. Restrooms with showers are accessible.
Huckleberry Campground One campsite is accessibly designed and located adjacent to an accessible restroom.
Tent Cabins. Three tent cabins in Huckleberry that are designated accessible have sloped entry ramps that may require assistance. Restroom with showers are accessible. Parking: Each cabin has a parking spur with generally firm but unmarked surfaces. Route of travel to ramps is flat and usable.
Sequoia Group Camp Restroom with showers are accessible and include van accessible parking. Further site improvements are pending.
Make Campground Reservations
Picnic Area
The main picnic area has about 15 accessible picnic tables. Parking: Accessible parking and routes of travel to 6 sites are available. Restroom in main parking lot and picnic area and routes of travel to them are accessible.
Trails
The Redwood Loop Trail is a 1/2 mile loop through ancient redwood stands. It is located near the Park Headquarters Accessible parking and restrooms nearby. The surface is compacted soil. This is Big Basin’s most popular hike.
The Campground Connector Trail begins at the Blooms Creek Campground and provides accessible trail linkage to the Redwood Loop Trail and Park Headquarters. Accessible parking is available at both ends. An accessible campsite and bathroom is available near the trailhead in the Blooms Creek Campground. Trail length is 1/2 mile.
The Skyline to the Sea Trail (Accessible Section): This section of the Skyline to the Sea Trail is accessible from the Headquarters Area for approximately ¼ mile. The out and back trail section is surfaced with compacted gravel and soil and has accessible parking at the trailhead, which serves both the Skyline to the Sea Trail (Accessible Section) and the Redwood Loop Trail. Accessible restrooms are located nearby.
Exhibits/Programs
Visitor Center: The Semperverins Room visitor center is located in the park headquarters building. The room and its exhibits are generally accessible. Restroom. Restrooms inside the buildings are not located or designed for wheelchair access. Restrooms near the main picnic area are usable. Route of travel to visitor center is generally accessible, but assistance may be needed with historic doors entering exhibit room.
Other Information
Rancho del Oso / Waddell Creek Area: located on the western edge of the park, accessible by vehicle from Highway 1, the Rancho del Oso Nature Center is accessible including parking, restroom and picnic sites.
West of Highway 1 there is an ocean overlook parking area with accessible parking and restroom and directly across Highway 1 to the east an equestrian staging area has accessible parking restroom and horse mounting platform.
Getting There
The park is about 65 miles south of San Francisco. From Santa Cruz travel approx 25 miles northwest via Highways 9 and 236 to reach Park Headquarters. Park Headquarters is 9 miles north of the town of Boulder Creek on State Hwy 236. All roads into Big Basin are curvy. The Rancho Del Oso coastal unit of Big Basin is accessible on State Route 1, about 20 miles north of the city of Santa Cruz.
The Day Use Annual Pass is accepted at this park.
The park is about 65 miles south of San Francisco. From Santa Cruz travel approx 25 miles northwest via Highways 9 and 236 to reach Park Headquarters. Park Headquarters is 9 miles north of the town of Boulder Creek on State Hwy 236. All roads into Big Basin are curvy. The Rancho Del Oso coastal unit of Big Basin is accessible on State Route 1, about 20 miles north of the city of Santa Cruz.
The Day Use Annual Pass is accepted at this park.
Seasons/Climate
Winter: Cold, overcast and rainy. Big Basin receives the majority of its average 48 inches of rain. December through March average temperatures range from highs in the 50s to lows in the 20s.
Spring: Cool with showers and morning and evening fog. Average daytime highs in the 60s, lows in the 30s to 40s.
Summer: Warm with cool nights. Morning fog in early summer. Average highs 75 to 95, lows 40s to 50s.
Fall: Warm day to cold nights. Occasional early storms with rain. Average highs 75 to 60s, lows 50s to 30. Maybe the best weather of the year.
Winter: Cold, overcast and rainy. Big Basin receives the majority of its average 48 inches of rain. December through March average temperatures range from highs in the 50s to lows in the 20s.
Spring: Cool with showers and morning and evening fog. Average daytime highs in the 60s, lows in the 30s to 40s.
Summer: Warm with cool nights. Morning fog in early summer. Average highs 75 to 95, lows 40s to 50s.
Fall: Warm day to cold nights. Occasional early storms with rain. Average highs 75 to 60s, lows 50s to 30. Maybe the best weather of the year.
Operating Hours & Contact
Please call ahead for operating hours, pricing and availability.
Telephone: 831-338-8860
Please call ahead for operating hours, pricing and availability.
Telephone: 831-338-8860
Park News Alert
Big Basin Facilities Access Improvements Underway
***ALERT: CONSTRUCTION RELATED CLOSED AREAS***
California State Parks is improving the facilities in the areas around Big Basin Park Headquarters to improve access for persons with disabilities, and to comply with standards required by the Americans With Disabilities Act. Construction began September 26, 2011 and is scheduled to be completed by March 31, 2012.
Improvements include improved visitor disabled access ramps, pathways, and parking spaces for all facilities. These include Park Headquarters, the campfire center, the store, and the giftshop. Restroom buildings and water fountains are also being upgraded adjacent to Park Headquarters and the campfire center.
The park will remain open for day-use and camping during construction, but we have had to cancel some scheduled interpretive programs. During this period, park visitors will experience construction related closures of facilities such as restrooms, buildings, pathways, and parking lots. We apologize for the inconvenience. If you have specific questions about the park, program cancellations, and access, please contact Park Headquarters during regular business hours at (831)338-8861. Reservations can be made for all campgrounds and the Tent Cabins by calling 1-800-444-PARK (7275) or visiting the link in the camping section.
Big Basin Facilities Access Improvements Underway
***ALERT: CONSTRUCTION RELATED CLOSED AREAS***
California State Parks is improving the facilities in the areas around Big Basin Park Headquarters to improve access for persons with disabilities, and to comply with standards required by the Americans With Disabilities Act. Construction began September 26, 2011 and is scheduled to be completed by March 31, 2012.
Improvements include improved visitor disabled access ramps, pathways, and parking spaces for all facilities. These include Park Headquarters, the campfire center, the store, and the giftshop. Restroom buildings and water fountains are also being upgraded adjacent to Park Headquarters and the campfire center.
The park will remain open for day-use and camping during construction, but we have had to cancel some scheduled interpretive programs. During this period, park visitors will experience construction related closures of facilities such as restrooms, buildings, pathways, and parking lots. We apologize for the inconvenience. If you have specific questions about the park, program cancellations, and access, please contact Park Headquarters during regular business hours at (831)338-8861. Reservations can be made for all campgrounds and the Tent Cabins by calling 1-800-444-PARK (7275) or visiting the link in the camping section.
Facilities
Park staff are available from 8am to 5pm every day at the park headquarters to answer questions and assist with other concerns. You may also pay day-use and camping fees there, as well as purchase a trail map ($5.00) and a Self Guided Tour map ($0.25 each) of the Redwood Loop Trail. Use the "Iron Ranger" to make a day use or camp site payment after hours. If park staff are not available in the event of an emergency, dial 911 from the public telephones located next to Park Headquarters.
Food, beverages, essential camping supplies and more are available at the Big Basin Redwoods Store located across the street from Park Headquarters. Closed December and January. Hours vary seasonally in the spring and fall. Open 8am-8pm during the summer.
Gift Shop: Located next to the Big Basin Redwoods Store, you'll find a wide selection of gifts, postcards, and clothing and more. Closed December and January. Hours vary seasonally in the spring and fall. Open 8am-8pm during the summer.
Museum: See wonderful photographs of the area from years past, learn about redwood forests, and see the many birds, reptiles, insects and mammals that live in Big Basin. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Public pay telephones are located next to Park Headquarters. Mobile phones generally do not work from the lower areas of the Park, including the area near Park Headquarters. Some may work at higher elevations. Traveling three miles (either direction) on Hwy. 236 generally puts you within reach of mobile phone service.
Boulder Creek: There are several stores, restaurants, and other services located in Boulder Creek just 9 miles from Park Headquarters.
Park Access: The park's major campsites can be reached by automobile. Some trails are wheelchair accessible. Ask at Park Headquarters, or telephone 831-338-8860 for more information.
Tent Cabins: Registration for the Tent Cabins is at the Gift Shop or after hours at the Host Site at Huckleberry Campground. Tent Cabins are managed by a private concession.
Make Tent Cabin Reservations
Park staff are available from 8am to 5pm every day at the park headquarters to answer questions and assist with other concerns. You may also pay day-use and camping fees there, as well as purchase a trail map ($5.00) and a Self Guided Tour map ($0.25 each) of the Redwood Loop Trail. Use the "Iron Ranger" to make a day use or camp site payment after hours. If park staff are not available in the event of an emergency, dial 911 from the public telephones located next to Park Headquarters.
Food, beverages, essential camping supplies and more are available at the Big Basin Redwoods Store located across the street from Park Headquarters. Closed December and January. Hours vary seasonally in the spring and fall. Open 8am-8pm during the summer.
Gift Shop: Located next to the Big Basin Redwoods Store, you'll find a wide selection of gifts, postcards, and clothing and more. Closed December and January. Hours vary seasonally in the spring and fall. Open 8am-8pm during the summer.
Museum: See wonderful photographs of the area from years past, learn about redwood forests, and see the many birds, reptiles, insects and mammals that live in Big Basin. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Public pay telephones are located next to Park Headquarters. Mobile phones generally do not work from the lower areas of the Park, including the area near Park Headquarters. Some may work at higher elevations. Traveling three miles (either direction) on Hwy. 236 generally puts you within reach of mobile phone service.
Boulder Creek: There are several stores, restaurants, and other services located in Boulder Creek just 9 miles from Park Headquarters.
Park Access: The park's major campsites can be reached by automobile. Some trails are wheelchair accessible. Ask at Park Headquarters, or telephone 831-338-8860 for more information.
Tent Cabins: Registration for the Tent Cabins is at the Gift Shop or after hours at the Host Site at Huckleberry Campground. Tent Cabins are managed by a private concession.
Make Tent Cabin Reservations
Camping
146 family campsites, four group camping sites, tent cabins, along-trail backpacking camps, and horse camping are available. Trail camps are open by reservation only; for trail camp information, call 831-338-8861. For horse camping at Rancho del Oso, call 831-425-1218.
Make Campground Reservations
146 family campsites, four group camping sites, tent cabins, along-trail backpacking camps, and horse camping are available. Trail camps are open by reservation only; for trail camp information, call 831-338-8861. For horse camping at Rancho del Oso, call 831-425-1218.
Make Campground Reservations
Hiking
Big Basin’s 80 miles of roads and trails introduce visitors not only to the redwoods, but to the park’s different habitats and plants. Guided hikes are scheduled.
Easy Hikes
•Redwood Trail: Loop self guided nature trail. Trail guides available at HQ ($.25) and the trail head. Guided walks on weekends spring through fall (as available). Here you will see some of the tallest trees in the park (Mother of the Forest).
•Sequoia Trail: Forms loop with either Skyline to the Sea (via Slippery Rock trail connector) or Shadowbrook Trails. Here you will see Sempervirens Falls, Founders Monument and Slipper Rock.
•Skyline to the Sea Trail to Maddocks Cabin Site: Forms loop with either Sequoia (via Slippery Rock trail connector) or Shadowbrook Trails. Here you will see Maddocks Cabin Site, Opal Creek, and Old Growth Redwoods.
Moderate Hikes
•ShadowbrookTrail: Forms loop with either Skyline to the Sea (via Slippery Rock trail connector) or Sequoia Trails. Here you will see Sempervirens Falls, Founders Monument, and Slippery Rock.
•Creeping Forest Trail to Dool Trail: Forms loop with Dool Trail. Here you will see forest tilted by land slips.
•Skyline to the Sea Trail to Meteor Trail to Middle Ridge Fire Road: Forms loop with Dool Trail or Gazos Creek Road. Here you will see Opal Creek, many Old Growth Trees and Rogers Creek.
•Sunset Trail to Timms Creek to Skyline to the Sea Trail: Loop Trail. Here you will see Opal Creek, many of the largest Old Growth trees (Santa Clara Tree), and Timms Creek.
Strenuous Hikes
•Trail to Berry Creek Falls
Sunset Trail to Berry Creek Falls Trail to Skyline to the Sea Trail. Loop Trail. Here you will see Opal Creek, many of the largest Old Growth trees (Santa Clara Tree), and Berry Creek (four water falls).
•Redwood Trail to Blooms Creek Campground. One Way.
•Howard King Trail to Mount McAbee: Forms loop with Skyline to the Sea Trail. Spectacular views here.
•Skyline to the Sea Trail to Waddell Beach. One Way. Spectacular views here.
•Skyline to the Sea Trail to Hollow Tree Trail. There and Back. Forms loop with Basin Trail and Road. Here you will see Creeks, dense Old Growth Forest, Maddocks Cabin Site and chaparral plant community.
Big Basin’s 80 miles of roads and trails introduce visitors not only to the redwoods, but to the park’s different habitats and plants. Guided hikes are scheduled.
Easy Hikes
•Redwood Trail: Loop self guided nature trail. Trail guides available at HQ ($.25) and the trail head. Guided walks on weekends spring through fall (as available). Here you will see some of the tallest trees in the park (Mother of the Forest).
•Sequoia Trail: Forms loop with either Skyline to the Sea (via Slippery Rock trail connector) or Shadowbrook Trails. Here you will see Sempervirens Falls, Founders Monument and Slipper Rock.
•Skyline to the Sea Trail to Maddocks Cabin Site: Forms loop with either Sequoia (via Slippery Rock trail connector) or Shadowbrook Trails. Here you will see Maddocks Cabin Site, Opal Creek, and Old Growth Redwoods.
Moderate Hikes
•ShadowbrookTrail: Forms loop with either Skyline to the Sea (via Slippery Rock trail connector) or Sequoia Trails. Here you will see Sempervirens Falls, Founders Monument, and Slippery Rock.
•Creeping Forest Trail to Dool Trail: Forms loop with Dool Trail. Here you will see forest tilted by land slips.
•Skyline to the Sea Trail to Meteor Trail to Middle Ridge Fire Road: Forms loop with Dool Trail or Gazos Creek Road. Here you will see Opal Creek, many Old Growth Trees and Rogers Creek.
•Sunset Trail to Timms Creek to Skyline to the Sea Trail: Loop Trail. Here you will see Opal Creek, many of the largest Old Growth trees (Santa Clara Tree), and Timms Creek.
Strenuous Hikes
•Trail to Berry Creek Falls
Sunset Trail to Berry Creek Falls Trail to Skyline to the Sea Trail. Loop Trail. Here you will see Opal Creek, many of the largest Old Growth trees (Santa Clara Tree), and Berry Creek (four water falls).
•Redwood Trail to Blooms Creek Campground. One Way.
•Howard King Trail to Mount McAbee: Forms loop with Skyline to the Sea Trail. Spectacular views here.
•Skyline to the Sea Trail to Waddell Beach. One Way. Spectacular views here.
•Skyline to the Sea Trail to Hollow Tree Trail. There and Back. Forms loop with Basin Trail and Road. Here you will see Creeks, dense Old Growth Forest, Maddocks Cabin Site and chaparral plant community.
Other Activities
A year-round activity schedule can be found on the park’s, as well as the cooperating associations, websites. The park’s Nature Lodge has exhibits and historic park photographs. The coastal Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center offers guided tours; call (831) 427-2288.
Waddell Creek and Rancho del Oso (a part of Big Basin Redwoods State Park) offer a variety of recreational opportunities as well. Six miles of Canyon Road (a graded dirt fire road) meanders along the course of Waddell Creek. It is almost level for the entire length, so even younger bicycle riders can be found pedaling along.
We recommend only fat tire bicycles be used, as it is dirt and ruts will cause problems for a narrow tired "road bike". Helmets are required for young riders and recommended for all.
There are NO through trails to Big Basin, and NO single track trails are open to bicycles at Rancho del Oso or the main portions of Big Basin State Park.
A series of Backpack Trail Camps are spaced along the trail, with three being located within easy hiking distance from the Rancho del Oso park headquarters. Reservations are required to stay in the Back packing camps. Please call 831-338-8861 to make reservations. The back pack trail camps are closed for the winter months November 1st through April 30th.
There is also an Equestrian trail camp that (with reservations) allows riders to camp overnight with their horses. For reservations for the horse camp, please call 831-425-1218. Please note: dogs are not allowed in any portion of Rancho del Oso, nor in the horse camp at any time.
Waddell Beach, located across Highway 1 from the park entrance, is known worldwide as one of THE spots for windsurfing and kite surfing. The steady strong North West winds and good surf provide ideal conditions for this demanding sport. Launching from the tops of incoming waves the best windsurfers can complete full loops and continue on their way. With the strong winds and occasionally heavy surf, Waddell Beach is not recommended for novice wind surfers.
Regular surfers and boogie boarders also find it an ideal spot to pursue their activities.
A good place for bird watching is on the inland side of Hwy. 1 in the Theodore J. Hoover Natural Preserve.
A year-round activity schedule can be found on the park’s, as well as the cooperating associations, websites. The park’s Nature Lodge has exhibits and historic park photographs. The coastal Rancho del Oso Nature and History Center offers guided tours; call (831) 427-2288.
Waddell Creek and Rancho del Oso (a part of Big Basin Redwoods State Park) offer a variety of recreational opportunities as well. Six miles of Canyon Road (a graded dirt fire road) meanders along the course of Waddell Creek. It is almost level for the entire length, so even younger bicycle riders can be found pedaling along.
We recommend only fat tire bicycles be used, as it is dirt and ruts will cause problems for a narrow tired "road bike". Helmets are required for young riders and recommended for all.
There are NO through trails to Big Basin, and NO single track trails are open to bicycles at Rancho del Oso or the main portions of Big Basin State Park.
A series of Backpack Trail Camps are spaced along the trail, with three being located within easy hiking distance from the Rancho del Oso park headquarters. Reservations are required to stay in the Back packing camps. Please call 831-338-8861 to make reservations. The back pack trail camps are closed for the winter months November 1st through April 30th.
There is also an Equestrian trail camp that (with reservations) allows riders to camp overnight with their horses. For reservations for the horse camp, please call 831-425-1218. Please note: dogs are not allowed in any portion of Rancho del Oso, nor in the horse camp at any time.
Waddell Beach, located across Highway 1 from the park entrance, is known worldwide as one of THE spots for windsurfing and kite surfing. The steady strong North West winds and good surf provide ideal conditions for this demanding sport. Launching from the tops of incoming waves the best windsurfers can complete full loops and continue on their way. With the strong winds and occasionally heavy surf, Waddell Beach is not recommended for novice wind surfers.
Regular surfers and boogie boarders also find it an ideal spot to pursue their activities.
A good place for bird watching is on the inland side of Hwy. 1 in the Theodore J. Hoover Natural Preserve.
Tips & Rules
•All natural and cultural features in the park are protected by law and may not be disturbed or removed. Collecting is prohibited, including down wood. Purchase firewood at the park store.
•Feeding wildlife is prohibited by law.
•Be prepared for mosquitoes in summer.
•Lock all food inside vehicles and recycle glass, plastic and aluminum. Please secure food items at all times and dispose of trash properly.
•Except for service animals, dogs are not allowed on trails, unpaved service/fire roads, in any portion of the Rancho del Oso area or Waddell Beach at any time.
•Dogs are not allowed in any portion of Rancho del Oso nor on Waddell Beach.
•All natural and cultural features in the park are protected by law and may not be disturbed or removed. Collecting is prohibited, including down wood. Purchase firewood at the park store.
•Feeding wildlife is prohibited by law.
•Be prepared for mosquitoes in summer.
•Lock all food inside vehicles and recycle glass, plastic and aluminum. Please secure food items at all times and dispose of trash properly.
•Except for service animals, dogs are not allowed on trails, unpaved service/fire roads, in any portion of the Rancho del Oso area or Waddell Beach at any time.
•Dogs are not allowed in any portion of Rancho del Oso nor on Waddell Beach.
Trails
Summary
Difficulty
Distance
Redwood Trail at Big Basin Redwoods State Park
See some of the world's tallest trees along this easy, well-maintained hiking trail. A great hike for young kids.
See some of the world's tallest trees along this easy, well-maintained hiking trail. A great hike for young kids.
Easy
0.7 mi/
1.1 km
1.1 km
Big Basin’s Redwood Trail Loop
Tall trees await you along this short hike in Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Tall trees await you along this short hike in Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Easy
0.7 mi/
1.1 km
1.1 km
Redwood Creek Canyon
Skyline to the Sunset Trail-Dool Trail-Creeping Forest Trail Loop
Skyline to the Sunset Trail-Dool Trail-Creeping Forest Trail Loop
Easy
1.9 mi/
3.1 km
3.1 km
Buzzard's Roost at Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Great moderate hike to high point overlooking Big Basin and the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Great moderate hike to high point overlooking Big Basin and the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Moderate
4.5 mi/
7.2 km
7.2 km
Meteor Trail at Big Basin Redwoods
This loop allows you to experience the majesty of ancient redwoods minus the crowds on more popular trails
This loop allows you to experience the majesty of ancient redwoods minus the crowds on more popular trails
Moderate
6.2 mi/
10.0 km
10.0 km
Berry Creek Falls Loop at Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Long hike through old-growth redwoods to shimmering waterfalls is a Bay Area favorite.
Long hike through old-growth redwoods to shimmering waterfalls is a Bay Area favorite.
Difficult
10.2 mi/
16.4 km
16.4 km
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Bay Area's best place to see California's giant redwoods
Bay Area's best place to see California's giant redwoods
n/a
8.3 mi/
13.4 km
13.4 km
Guides
Long hike through old-growth redwoods to shimmering waterfalls is a Bay Area favorite.
This loop allows you to experience the majesty of ancient redwoods minus the crowds on more popular trails
See some of the world's tallest trees along this easy, well-maintained hiking trail. A great hike for young kids.
Great moderate hike to high point overlooking Big Basin and the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Bay Area's best place to see California's giant redwoods
Skyline to the Sunset Trail-Dool Trail-Creeping Forest Trail Loop
Tall trees await you along this short hike in Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Community Trips
We knew the waterfalls would be good after the recent storms, so Antony, Dave, Laurent, Sammy, David and I headed out to Big Basin this weekend. We had a rough loop planned that included the Skyline to the Sea Trail so we were a bit disappointed when we showed up and learned the trail was closed due to a washed out bridge and fallen old-growth redwoods across the trail.Not a group to...
This is an absolutely gorgeous hike through huge redwoods to see some great waterfalls. There is a parking fee, and a very nominal fee to buy a map. I forgot my wallet and relied on the generosity and niceness of others to help me get a bottle of water, a map, and parking. Ooops. Although I did the hike in just over 3 hours, you should schedule 5-6 hours to do this hike plus...
Waddell Beach to Berry Creek Fall, via Chalk Mountain and the high ridges - Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Swanton, California, United States
19.1 miles
19.1 miles
Where to go for a long hike when a series of powerful storms has drenched the whole area for a week? There are not that many places that will be mud free. One of them is Big Basin Redwoods State Park.While searching the web for photos of Berry Creek Falls, I found a description of a hike going from Waddell Beach to the fall and this seemed very appealing to me. Checking...
Joel and I decided to go check out the Big Basin waterfalls before the end of the wet season; our (well, my) original plan was to head up the Howard King Trail to Mt. McAbee, then over and down to the Berry Creek Falls trail and out via the Sunset Trail. I'd heard (from all these folks' hikes) that the Howard King trail from Skyline-to-the-Sea to Mt. McAbee was a pretty tough...
Waterfalls and Mt McAbee - Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Riverside Grove, California, United States
12.1 miles
12.1 miles
A strenuous 12 miles loop starting at Big Basin HQ, continuing on sunset trail, Berry Creek Falls trail, a short section of Skyline to the Sea trail, and then climbing up Howard King trail to Mt McAbee Overlookd, and down and back to HQ using Hihn Hammond rd.Rebecca (calipidder), David, Sam (samydee), David (croyle), Antony (antonyw) and I all met at 9 in Big Basin HQ, ready to hike this nice loop....
I'd never been to Big Basin before, so this whole trip was new to me. But I'd heard good things. I was a little worried at just how crowded it was when I arrived -- but those worries would soon fade.I arrived around 10:15am and had to park waaaaay down in the extra reserve overflow parking for dummies area. But not a big deal. I jumped on the Skyline trail just across...
A great group hike with the usual suspects: Sammydee, Antonyw, Vaudesir, Calipidder & David. The weather was excellent (slightly chilly at times), the falls were all very impressive, and the trails beautiful.Actual elevation change for this hike seems to be around 3,000', maybe less. Unfortunately, about half of that was in one long slog of a climb up Mt. McAbee, and Antony & I had both made the mistake of scarfing down...
This weekend we had planned a backpacking trip at Big Basin with Loren, David, and Josh but soon found out that the backpacking camps would not be open for another week (pretty late if you ask me). So there we were with all of our backpacking gear and no food (David forgot to pick it up...), so we decided to go on a day hike.Part of the Skyline to the Sea trail...
Several others have told the story, so I'll be brief. We (Calipidder,
DM, Vaudesir, Antonyw, Croyle) met at the park HQ at 9 intending to do
a loop through the park. It was 36 degrees at HQ when I arrived -
quite a bit colder than I had planned for. At the park HQ they
warned us about a trail closure that had us rethinking our route, but
that ultimately didn't exist. I think we wound...
Loop hike to Berry Creek Falls. Starting at the Ranger station/Visitors center. The consensus seems to be that counterclockwise is the way to go. Sunset trail out, and Skyline to the Sea trail back.
Reviews
