Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is the most accessible of the majestic redwood parks in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Cool groves of huge redwoods include many first growth specimens, the tallest of which measures 285 feet high and 51 feet around.

Lots to Do

One of the great things about this park is that you can find enjoyment in less than an hour or spend a multi-day camping trip here.

If you have only an hour, go to the main entrance on State Route 9 just south of Felton. The level, 0.8 mile Redwood Grove nature trail loop will take you through old growth redwoods (sequoia sempervirens), many of which are over 200 feet tall. You'll also see redwood sorrel flowers, sword fern, oxalis and even ginger plants on a cool, shadowy forest floor.

If you have a little more time after your nature walk, browse through the nature exhibits at the small visitor center. An adjacent small store has books, literature and other souvenirs.

If you're up for a picnic, there are a few benches on the Redwood Grove trail, but there's an official picnic area right on the San Lorenzo River near the entrance station. The amount of water in the river varies greatly throughout the year, but if you time your winter visit just right, you'll get to see a small spawning run of salmon and steelhead.

If you're interested in stretching your legs, there are more than 15 miles of trails including riverside, canyon, forest and ridge walks. There's even a fantastic viewpoint with a large platform that offers panoramic vistas of the surround forest and distant Pacific Ocean.

There's also a 100 plus site campground for car camping. Part of this campground is in a forest of ponderosa pine, very unusual for this area.

A Bonus

The main parking lot is adjacent to another Santa Cruz Country attraction: Roaring Camp and Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad, which features (rather expensive) rides on authentic steam powered trains.

You can take a 5 mile loop ride through redwood groves or a longer ride down to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. This venue also hosts a variety of barbecues and special events such as Civil War reenactments. Kids and train buffs seem to like this place a lot!

Getting There

Coming from the north or south, take State Route 17 to the Mount Hermon Road exit in Scotts Valley. Go west through the Scotts Valley commercial area and continue on to Felton. In Felton, turn south on State Route 9. The main entrance will be on your left within a mile or so. Do not take State Route 9 from Santa Cruz; it is closed for washout repair as of January 2001.


Recommended: Yes

Best time to go: Anytime
Recommended for: Familes
Review Topic: Overview