Laurel Maxwell, Author at Visit Santa Cruz County

Top State Park Hikes in Santa Cruz County

Did you know that Santa Cruz County has over fourteen state parks? Day hikes are the best way to explore them as you can travel through scenery ranging from towering redwoods and babbling streams to mountaintop views plunging to the ocean. Although you may not be able to get to all the parks in on your first trip, these hikes will show some great highlights so you can plan what to see when you return. Most state parks are open from sunrise to sunset so there’s plenty of time to let the miles glide under your shoes. Want to bring your furry friend along? Check out these options as not all state parks allow dogs.

For Forest Lovers

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Vista Point Loop
Mileage: 4.5

This Henry Cowell hike among redwoods with views of the Monterey Bay is perfect for those with limited time who want to get the most out of their visit. Starting from the visitor center, walk along the sandy River Trail until hitting the paved path of Pipeline Road. After a steep, shady climb, stop for views of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk at the Overlook Bench on Pipeline Road. Return the way you came taking a right on the Ridge Fire Road Trail walking up twisted tree roots to a sandy trail leading to the Observation Deck. At this point you can return on Eagle Creek via Pine Trail to finish the loop, arriving back at the visitor center. Make sure to bring a hat and sunscreen if you plan on hiking in the afternoon. Limited snacks and water are available for purchase at the Mountain Parks Foundation store. Parking is $10 or free with an annual State Park Pass.

Henry Cowell- Fall Creek Division
Lime Kilns
Mileage: 2.2 Roundtrip

Containing about twenty miles of trails, the Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell is located in the small town of Felton in the San Lorenzo Valley. As a slightly remote location with no facilities, this is another place to get away from it all. The sounds of the river and streams are the perfect background noise to a relaxing hike in the redwoods. Take the Bennet Creek Trail and follow Fall Creek for about a mile before taking South Fork ending at the lime kilns and powder magazines left from the 1870s. Parking is free but limited. For your safety, please stay on marked trails.

Nisene Marks State Park
Millpond Loop
Mileage 6.0

Stay cool as you step into the solitude of old-growth redwoods at Nisene Marks State Park. From the main parking lot, follow the fire road or take Rancho Aptos Trail for approximately 2.5 miles until you reach the Loma Prieta Grade trail. This mainly flat section is lined with redwood trees and Bay Laurel and slips in and out of the sun. Keep right once you reach Hoffman’s, staying on Millpond Trail. Follow the path down, stopping to see the placards with information about the Porter House (since overgrown) At the bottom of your descent you will reach a small wooden bridge at around 3.2 miles. On still days watch the reflection of maple trees as they arch over Aptos Creek. Take a seat on the bench before you cross and enjoy the sounds of the forest. When you are ready to return cross the bridge, veering right and continue the way you came to return to the parking lot. Parking is $10 or free with an annual State Park Pass. Be sure to arrive early, especially on the weekends, as the main lot tends to fill up quickly.

For Wide Open Vistas

Castle Rock State Park
Skyline/Loghry Woods/Saratoga Gap Loop
Mileage: 7.0

With its unique rock formations and thirty-five miles of trails, Castle Rock State Park is ideal for hikers and geologists. To begin this hike, take the Connector Trail from the main parking lot entering the cool shade of oak trees. Pass Goat Rock, a climber’s haven, stopping for views of the Santa Cruz Coastal Range on clear days. Continue by following the trail to the campground (which is 1.7 miles away) or take a 0.1 detour to the interpretative center. This covered overhang has picnic benches and information about park history, wildlife, and geology. You will know you have reached the campground a mile away after crossing two wooden bridges. Follow the signs for Skyline/Loghry Woods and pick up the Skyline Trail across the road. Follow Skyline Trail as it enters Sanborn County Park, continuing until you reach the main entrance to Castle Rock State Park. Be sure to arrive early and carry plenty of water as none is available past the visitor center. Parking in the main lot is $10 or free with an annual State Park Pass. Overflow parking on Highway 35 is free and is first come first served.

Wilder Ranch State Park
Wilder Loops
Mileage: 6.0-7.5

Wilder Ranch is a year-round favorite for cool coastal temps and some epic open vistas. Want to see wildlife and wildflowers? This is your park as poppies bloom in the spring and rabbits constantly skitter into the brush. Whatever time you get to visit, begin this hike passing through the historic ranch complex and walking by the old cowboy barns and bunkhouses. Be forewarned this hike begins with an uphill climb on Engelsmans Loop Trail. Once you reach the top look back to see views of the Monterey Bay before dipping into shaded forests via Old Cabin Trail. After reveling in the quiet of redwood trees, emerge into open meadows as you take a left on the Eucalyptus Loop Trail. Listen for the call of wild turkeys while keeping an eye out for herds of deer. Get your first glimpse of the ocean as you make your way down Wilder Ridge Loop. For about a six-mile trip take the Zane Grey Cutoff or continue on Wilder Ridge Loop Trail for a 7.5-mile round trip dropping you back at the visitor center. Be sure to stay on the trail to avoid poison oak and keep an ear out for mountain bikers. Parking is $10 or free with an annual State Parks Pass.

Happy Trails!

Laurel Maxwell

December 18, 2021

Hiking, Parks, Sports & Recreation
Hikes with a View in Santa Cruz County

Want to know where locals go for some of the best hikes with striking views in Santa Cruz? From peeks of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk on clear days to large open vistas of the Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz boasts a multitude of short hikes with Instagram-worthy vistas. These routes can be completed in a few hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the rest of Santa Cruz County.

Wilder Ranch State Park

Once a working dairy farm, Wilder Ranch State Park has trails for all abilities from the meandering Old Cove Landing Trail to the calf-burner on Wilder Ridge Loop. Parking is $10 or free with a State Park Pass. Arrive early as the park tends to get busy around nine.

Wilder Ridge Loop Vista Point
Mileage: 4 miles out and back

Climbers are rewarded with sweeping views of the bluffs and Pacific Ocean upon reaching this viewpoint. After walking under the overpass skirt the historic cowboy barn as you start your hike with a steep climb up Wilder Ridge Loop Trail. Winding through Oak trees, the path mellows before you begin your final ascent. Trees draped with Spanish moss lead the way to your viewpoint as hawks often circle overhead. A lone picnic table looks out toward the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. You can also make out the small town of Davenport to the North. Return the way you came or descend via Zane Gray Cutoff which drops you back where you started.

Cowboy Loop Trail
Mileage: 3-mile round trip

This aptly named trail begins behind the old cowboy barns past the visitor center. Please be advised there are no other signs on this trail although it is well kept and easy to follow. After crossing a wooden bridge over a dry creek bed begin your ascent on a wide, dirt path. Keep straight at the fork and continue upward keeping Highway One on your right. As the path evens out turn around to see the ocean opening in front of you as wheat waves on either side of the single-track trail. Continue to the left following the old fence line. After a steep descent the path dips into a grove of redwoods. Follow it back to your starting point.

Old Cove Landing Trail
Mileage: 2.5 miles round trip

This kid friendly hike gently follows the curves of the ocean passing by sea caves and fields of artichokes and Brussels sprouts. As an out and back you can decide how far you want to travel before turning around. Most folks make it to Fern Grotto Beach, while others continue on the loop past Sea Plant Beach for the full 2.5 miles. Whatever your style, the crashing waves mingling with the bark of seals and the endless parades of seabirds are sure to inspire.

Eucalyptus Grove
Mileage: 3 miles out and back

The Eucalyptus Grove is perfect for those seeking solitude. From your parking spot on the shoulder of Empire Grade roughly a mile North from the East entrance to Wilder Ranch, hike South toward UCSC and Marshall Field. Be aware the beginning of the trail is not well marked and may require some navigation until reaching Marshall Field. After reaching Marshall Field continue right heading towards Empire Grade. Cross through the open gates arriving at Chinquapin Trail, keeping left to stay on Eucalyptus Loop Trail. Take a right at the large junction and it will be .8 miles to an old grove of eucalyptus trees with views to the ocean on a clear day. Keep an eye out for rabbits and the sound of yipping coyotes in the early evening. A favorite of mountain bikers, be sure to share the trail.

*Insider Tip: best done in early morning or evening before it heats up as part of the trail can be exposed. There are better views in the evening after the fog has burned off.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell is full of gorgeous vistas, the mountaintop variety like the ones we’re sharing below, but also the lower level views up towards the towering old growth redwoods. Parking is $10 or free with a State Parks Pass.

Observation Deck
Mileage: about 5 miles roundtrip from visitor center, 1 mile roundtrip from Powder Mill Fire Road

You will understand the name once you see the three hundred-and sixty-degree views of the Monterey Bay from the top of the Observation Deck. There are a few ways to get to the Observation Deck, depending on your starting point, but a favorite is the 5.3 mile Observation Deck Loop. This route has it all – redwoods, some steep grades, flat stretches, sand hills, and of course, the payoff of the Observation Deck views. For those short on time start at the campground on Powder Mill Fire Road. Parking is $10.

Observation Bench
Mileage: 3.5 out and back

If you don’t quite have the time for the above 5+ miler, consider taking the Pipeline Trail from the main parking lot for about 1.75 miles to the Observation Bench. On a clear day you can see the ocean, but this peaceful perch is a great spot for a quiet rest on the trail with great forested mountain views. The Pipeline Trail is dog-friendly so bring along the pooch! The trail is paved and is stroller and bike friendly too, but fare warning, it has some STEEP inclines!

South County

South County is known for its expansive beaches and primo bird watching opportunities, but the lesser-known Byrne-Milliron Forest is not to be missed! There are 402 acres to explore in this South County gem and the parking is free.

AJs Point of View
Mileage: 2.2 miles roundtrip

For those with a sense of adventure who want to explore more of South County head to AJs Point of View located in Bryne-Milliron Forest. This roundtrip gives glimpses of the surrounding wetlands and is well worth the effort of a steep uphill climb through redwoods and Bay Oaks. To reach this scenic overlook take Byrne Trail to Rattlesnake Trail. Be advised the road to the parking area is a narrow, one lane road.

Laurel Maxwell

December 13, 2021

Hiking, Parks, Things to Do
Best Ways to View Sea Life in Santa Cruz County
As part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, sea life is abundant in and around Santa Cruz County. Throughout the year it is possible to see sightings of common porpoises, humpback whales, sea lions, seals, and the ever-present sea otters. Seen from the deck of a sailboat, in the seat of a kayak, on a sixty-foot catamaran, or by land, there are a multitude of ways to watch marine life play in this watery world. Welcome aboard.

Kayak

If you want to get up close and personal with marine wildlife slip into a kayak and let the current (and your arms) propel you through the calm waters of Monterey Bay or Elkhorn Slough.

Venture Quest has kayaks to rent and offers guided tours leaving from the Santa Cruz Wharf. Humpbacks have been spotted off the Santa Cruz Wharf as they follow the flow of nutrients which bring them to the California Coast and Monterey Bay during the summer.

Kayak Connection conveniently located by the Santa Cruz Harbor has sunset tours as well as a three-hour wildlife tour with the opportunity to view sea lions, harbor seals, and dolphins. In spring gray whales are migrating along the coast, in the fall encounter warmer weather and calm days ideal for being out on the water. Blue whales are more likely to be spotted offshore in summer and fall. Whether you want to rent your own kayak or join a tour, this is the perfect gateway to exploring marine life in the bay.

Yacht

If you want to relax and seek marine life while sipping a glass of local wine, try gliding on the 65’ O’Neill catamaran which cruises past the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz Wharf, and surfers at Steamer Lane. Newly rebuilt to increase indoor and outdoor seating, the O’Neill catamaran boasts daytime and sunset sails. On their everyday tours, there is a chance to see juvenile humpbacks and Risso’s dolphins along with whatever else is currently making its home in the Monterey Bay. Those twenty-one and older can indulge in beer and wine sails showcasing local vintners and brewmasters.

Running March-June, Chardonnay Sailing Charters offers Whale Watching and Ecology Brunch Tours which are specially geared to searching for wildlife as this is when whales are migrating through the Monterey Bay. The naturalist on board can answer questions about marine life and explain what they see during the two-hour tour making this option perfect for nature aficionados. For a leisurely experience, which runs year-round, try their regular brunch tours with champagne and pastries from The Buttery. No matter the time of year, Chardonnay will rustle up wildlife whatever great white sharks at the cement ship in Aptos or sea otters in the kelp beds.

For a strictly wildlife and whale watching experience, book a charter with Stagnaros and Santa Cruz Whale Watching.

From Land

If whale-watching by seacraft is not your thing, the Santa Cruz coastline has pockets where you can spot a spout from land. Named for whaling captain, John Davenport, the town of Davenport is well known for being a place where whales can be spotted from the bluffs.

With a plethora of sea-facing benches on the well-traveled West Cliff path, you may be able to see spouts in the distance during annual whale migrations from December to February for the southern journey of grey whales, and mid-February to April for their northern journey. If you time it right, you may also see pods of dolphins at Manressa State Beach, and whales en route from your view on the patio of Palapas Restaurant.

Continued Learning

Want to learn more about marine life before or after your trip? The Seymor Marine Discovery Center offers a variety of learning experiences to deepen your understanding of marine science and ocean conservation. Don’t miss Ms. Blue, an 87-foot-long skeleton of a blue whale.

Curious about wildlife? This free guide has all the tips and insights you need to spot wildlife throughout the year in Santa Cruz County.

Quick Reference
- December-April: Gray Whales. Peak viewing is from mid-January through mid-March.
- Summer and Fall: Blue Whales, Humpbacks (although in the past few years, Humpbacks are proving to be year-round in the Monterey Bay)
- Year-Round: Orcas. The best time to view is April as they follow the migration pattern of Gray Whales.
- Other marine animals you may spot: Blue Shark, Great White Sharks, Sun Fish, Common and Risso’s Dolphins, Sea Otters.
Laurel Maxwell

October 5, 2021

Outdoor + Wildlife, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
San Lorenzo Valley Spotlight

When most folks think of Santa Cruz County, they imagine its iconic beaches and breathtaking coastline, but the small, forested communities in the Santa Cruz Mountains are just as dreamy as its ocean views. Known as San Lorenzo Valley (SLV), the area is comprised of the towns of Felton, Ben Lomond, Brookdale, and Boulder Creek which pay homage to the lumber industry that necessitated their existence. If you’re searching for the scent of the redwoods and the desire for a slower place, this is just the spot for you. Spend the day or extend your stay, the San Lorenzo Valley is waiting for you to explore.

ATTRACTIONS + ACTIVITIES

Train enthusiasts of all ages will be delighted by Roaring Camp Railroads. The space is modeled after a train depot from the 1880s down to the clapboard general store. Train riders can choose between two round-trip options: Bear Mountain and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. If you choose to sit in the open car, make sure to bring a hat and sunscreen for warmer weather. On-site parking is $10 and tickets to ride the train must be purchased in advance.

Stop by the Felton Covered Bridge Park and marvel at a California State Historical Landmark. Built in 1892, the Felton Covered Bridge is one of the few covered bridges remaining in the state. There is a nearby playground and a wide grassy expanse for a picnic or a pick-up soccer game.

Swing through the trees at Mount Hermon Adventures! Those who dare to take on the heights can choose between an adventure in the coastal redwood forest on the Redwood Canopy Tour – a fully guided 6 zip line canopy tour, or the Sequoia Aerial Adventure, a self-directed, multiple challenge adventure course.

For those who like choosing their own adventure, Loch Lomond offers hiking, picnic spots, fishing, and boat rentals. Read more about this hidden gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

History buffs will want to visit the SLV Museum. The unassuming museum includes displays of early SLV life on logging, trains, early schools, antique kitchen, and frequent rotating exhibits. Space is limited, and reservations are recommended via their website.

HIKE

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which is just steps from Roaring Camp Railroads, is a not-to-miss day in the forest. The wide, flat Redwood Grove Loop Trail is perfect for little hikers, strollers, wheelchairs, or folks who are short on time, but want to experience the majestic redwoods. This shaded path has plenty of rest spots. For those who want a longer loop, head down to the River Trail which follows the San Lorenzo River or hike to the observation deck for views to the ocean on a clear day.

For additional hiking head to nearby Fall Creek in Felton. Parking for Fall Creek is free, but be sure to arrive early if you want a spot in the small lot. You can also park along Highway 9.

SHOP

Have an aspiring green thumb? Mountain Feed and Farm Supply, a local hotspot known for its nursey may inspire it to flourish. They also offer a variety of supplies for beekeepers, cheesemakers, and canners.

For regional art, stop by Skavenge Art for hand painted wood pieces and cards. Mountainside has a selection of local or small business items with jewelry created by the owner. For a wide selection of houseplants step into Wild Iris, while Simpatico has carefully selected home goods for those seeking style and treasures. Also be sure to check out the pop-up markets from the Mountain Art Center and the monthly Santa Cruz Mountains Makers Market.

SAVOR

Wylder Space creates meals from scratch for brunch 9-2pm on Saturday and Sunday, with dinner options Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Indoor seating is limited to up to five people. Take out can be picked up from their back window.

Nab fresh bread or a pastry from Sunflower Bakehouse located at Wild Roots Market in Felton. La Placa Family Bakery offers fresh pastries and traditional Sicilian desserts. Their bomboloni and cannoli are a MUST!

Shop local at the Felton Farmer’s Market every Tuesday from 1:00-6:00pm May through October.

Nestled in the heart of Ben Lomond, stop in for a meal at Aroma. They pride themselves on offering a wide variety of dishes that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy steak, a refreshing salad, or a decadent dessert, Aroma has something for you.

STAY

The SLV area has a number of quaint properties with picture-perfect cabins nestled under towering redwoods. Masood’s Lodge and Fern River Resort Motel each offer cozy cabins in the valley’s forest setting. Quality Inn & Suites Santa Cruz Mountains has 25 modern rooms ringed by Douglas Fir trees, and the recently renovated, yet historic, Brookdale Lodge is another great choice along Highway 9. And for those looking to simply sleep among the redwoods and the stars, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers 107 campground sites. Space fills up quickly between Memorial Day and Labor Day so plan ahead.

Laurel Maxwell

April 27, 2021

Family Fun, Hiking, Parks, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas, Where to Stay
Santa Cruz by Sea, Land, and Air

Ocean waves? Check. Hikes with stunning vistas? Yup. Forest tours 150 feet up in the trees? We’ve got that too. From biking the newly opened coastal trail to ziplining through the redwoods, Santa Cruz is a place where both adrenaline junkies and those looking for the town’s laid-back vibe can play. All that’s required is a sense of exploration.

Sea

Catching waves or gliding by beds of kelp, the ocean is its own watery playground. Take surfing lessons with either Surf School Santa Cruz in Capitola or Club Ed in Santa Cruz. Club Ed also rents surfboards, boogie boards and wetsuits to tackle the waves on your own by the day or hour. Rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard to try and catch a glimpse of sea otters and sea lions. And if watching the sunset with a glass of wine is more your style, why not try it aboard a 70 foot yacht on the Chardonnay? Lovers of wildlife will want to book a trip with Stagnaro’s for fishing or whale watching tours. If catching dinner is your vibe Santa Cruz Charters offers trips which include instruction and gear.

Land

Santa Cruz is no stranger to hiking trails which weave through more than fourteen state parks. The recently opened Heart of Soquel Parkway offers an accessible path which follows Soquel Creek and provides a unique opportunity to explore this town known for its antique shops and wine tasting.

Those who enjoy scenic ocean views can wander the Old Cove Landing Trail at Wilder Ranch State Park or East and West Cliff which both offer multi-use paths for walkers and bikers. For those who want to see towering redwood trees, Nisene Marks, Pogonip, and Henry Cowell Redwood State Park are the places to be.

Tidepoolers can take their time exploring at Natural Bridges State Beach. Accessing the tidepools requires a short walk along the beach and sandstone cliffs. Remember to be aware of your surroundings and plan your visit around low tide.

Prefer ten speeds to shoes?

Mountain bikers can whip through miles of dedicated trails in Wilder Ranch, Nisene Marks, and Pogonip. For those not familiar with the local trails, contact The Ride Guides for professional mountain biking guides and coaches who are committed to helping guests discover their dream trail among Santa Cruz’s superlative singletrack. Whether you’re a first-time mountain biker looking to develop a few skills and explore the coast, or a seasoned rider looking for a challenge, The Ride Guides will customize a tour to suit your needs.

Those who prefer seeing scenery at a slower pace, the Coastal Rail Trail is a flat paved path which starts in Westside Santa Cruz and ends close to Natural Bridges Beach State Park. The Seymour Marine Discovery Center has a large path perfect for strollers and beginner bikers which extends to Wilder Ranch State Park.

Air

Maybe traveling eighty feet in the air through redwood canopies is how you ride. Mount Hermon Adventures has options for guided or individual tours recommended for those aged ten and above. If you prefer ocean views at 18,000 feet Go Jump Santa Cruz will provide a once in a lifetime view of the Monterey Bay. Prefer to watch the naturals take flight? Birdwatchers and families can take advantage of beautiful locations to enjoy birds in Santa Cruz County.

Relax

Looking for a little more solitude? Walk the grounds of the UCSC Arboretum and Botanic Garden or head up the coast to the small town of Davenport and watch the waves from the bluffs. You may even spot migrating whales.

However you travel, remember to do it safely and don’t forget to enjoy the journey.

Laurel Maxwell

March 31, 2021

Family Fun, Hiking, Parks, Things to Do, Vacation Ideas
Wild About Wildflowers in Santa Cruz County

Something about wildflowers in spring causes us to buzz with excitement. Waiting for the peek-a-boo of color that begins to dot shaded trails and rolling hillsides. Once wildflowers bloom, there is no shortage of locations in Santa Cruz County to spot their vibrant colors. Some of these flowers can be viewed in a few steps, while others require a short hike. Pack a picnic lunch or round up the kiddos for some down-in-the-earth exploration of this year’s must-see wildflowers.

Wilder Ranch State Park

You can enjoy a rainbow’s palette of wildflowers in Wilder Ranch right from the main parking lot. If you have more time, look for the purple Pacific hound’s tongue, Trillium and Irises, and golden Jewelweed, which bloom in late spring on shaded trails. Orange bursts of California Poppy are hard to miss as they populate the hills leading down to the coast. Wild daffodils can be seen from afar.

Quail Hollow

With a diverse ecosystem, Quail Hollow has wildflowers which range from the sticky monkey flower to vibrant yellow bush poppies. Keep an eye out for Indian Paintbrush clinging to sunny-sided rock faces and Hairy-Leaf Ceanothus, which prefer the shade. Connect Woodrat, Sunset, and Lower Chaparral Loop, and you will be amazed by the views as much as the natural beauty around you. Park in the large dirt lot by the old Ranch House.

West Glenwood Preserve

West Glenwood Preserve has been a protected space since 2013. The blue loop trail weaves in and out of woodlands where you can spot Pacific hounds tongue growing under oak trees. White popcorn flowers and California buttercup dot low-lying hillsides. Lupine’s purple petals can be seen in sunny open expanses. Free, limited parking can be found on the street next to the trailhead or in a larger lot a half-mile down the road across from Scotts Valley High School. Open to bikers, hikers, and dog walkers.

The Sandhills at Henry Cowell

The Santa Cruz Sandhills in Henry Cowell State Park are endemic to Santa Cruz County, meaning this unique ecosystem is only found in our coastal corner of the world. The sandhills are just as they sound, making this an especially fun hike for little ones who may rather be at the beach. And they’ll love the fact that 15 million years ago, the Santa Cruz Sandhills were at the bottom of the ocean. Today, this ‘beach’ in the mountains is home to several plants and animals found nowhere else. Keep your eyes peeled for the Santa Cruz Wallflower, Ben Lomond Spineflower, Ben Lomond Buckwheat, and Bonny Doon Manzanita. Although found throughout Santa Cruz County, the orange blooms of the Sticky Monkey Flower also love the sandy soil and full sun of this strange ecosystem.

Corralitos & South County

A drive along the country roads of Corralitos often lead to fresh orchard blooms on the trees and on the ground. Hames Road and Pleasant Valley are gorgeous during the spring and make for a perfect Sunday drive. And with the abundance of vineyards and wineries in the area, you’ll be happy to stop for some afternoon sips. Further south, another great drive is along San Andres Road. With wildflowers, agriculture fields, and peeks of the ocean, this is a not-to-miss journey in South County.

Pogonip

From the moment you step into Pogonip, wildflowers are waiting to greet you. Although mostly in the sunnier parts of the open space, woodland blooms can be found on the more forested trails. Parking can be located on Golf Club Drive or the UCSC Upper Campus near the firehouse on the weekends.

Seymour Marine Discovery Center

The one-mile paved trail encircling the Seymour Marine Discovery Center skirts the Pacific Ocean. Add native plant gardens to the mix and you have the best of both worlds.

Natural History Museum

Located behind the Natural History Museum, find the Garden Learning Center. These four small gardens group plants native to the California Coast. Open year-round and free to visit.

UCSC Arboretum and Botanic Garden

Flower aficionados and succulent lovers alike will find abundance at the UCSC Arboretum. With six gardens covering 135 acres, the Arboretum contains rare and threatened plants of scientific interest from California to New Zealand. Follow the paved paths between each of the gardens as you keep an eye out for hummingbirds and butterflies. There are plenty of benches and open spaces ideal for picnics. $5 for adults, $2 for children over six. Plan for more time than you think you will need.

Flowers make wonderful bouquets, but please take only pictures. It’s important to stay on designated trails and not trample the blooms. If you want to have a reminder of your trip both Norrie’s Gift Shop at the Arboretum and Wilder Ranch State Park sell seed packets and plants that you can enjoy all year long.

Laurel Maxwell

March 31, 2021

Hiking, Parks, Things to Do
Color POP: Murals of Santa Cruz County

With its deep-rooted art scene, Santa Cruz is highlighted in geometric patterns and splashes of color in the form of vibrant murals. Mural spotting in Santa Cruz can be an all day adventure or simply an opportunity to grab a few minutes of color pop bliss between destinations. From historic downtown Santa Cruz, to the quieter South County, feast your eyes on these artistic masterpieces that highlight this diverse area.

SANTA CRUZ

Learning from the Past, Living in the Present, Looking Toward the Future
Composed of seven individual panels, the mural in the Beach Flats neighborhood of Santa Cruz paints a vibrant picture the city’s past and acknowledgement of its future. An interpretive sign in English and Spanish explains the significance of each picture. Got kids? Two uncrowded playgrounds adjacent to the mural are the perfect location to visit before or after a trip to the nearby Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Community Quiltage
In need of a face lift, the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History located in Downtown Santa Cruz was awarded a grant for artist Thomas Campbell to transform a blank wall into a decorative wall of art. Campbell’s work is that of quilt pieces which stitch together multiple pieces of the community through history and art. Follow it around the side of the building at ground level, or step into Abbott Square for a larger view.

Black Lives Matter
In conjunction with artist and activist Abi Mustapha, Santa Cruz became the first city in the U.S. to work with city government to paint a BLM mural. Completed by community volunteers, this permanent work is located on Center Street in front of City Hall in Downtown Santa Cruz.

MIDTOWN

Words of Wisdom
“Wildflowers don’t care where they grow.” Sage advice from singer/songwriter, Dolly Parton. The owner of Typsy Gypsy boutique located in Midtown, and the owner of the shop next door wanted to share this sentiment with the world. They collaborated with McKella Jo to permanently plant the words on their building. Shop and see the flowers.

Bay in a Bottle
In this unique painting, the artist used a painting technique known as “trompe l’oeil” in this three-dimensional creation which stretches along the side of local grocery store, Shoppers Corner. Bay in a Bottle feels like you can step into the cool blue ocean encapsulated in a bottle.

PLEASURE POINT

Whale + Waves
Located on East Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz artist Jeremiah Kille utilizes bright colors and geometric patterns to tie together themes of nature and coexistence. A turquoise whale connects to waves of the same hue which surfers catch nearby. This mural was created in honor of his friend Tusher Arte. Want to see more of Kille’s work? Check out his equally bright patterned mural on the back wall of Beer Thirty in Soquel.

SEACLIFF

The Sea Meets the Park
Want a place for the kids to let off energy, and engage with art at the same time? The Seacliff Village Park Mural checks both boxes. In fact, artist Anastasiya Bachmanova felt the vibrant colors would inspire artistic creativity for younger audiences while serving as a catalyst for teaching about local conservation. If you want to see the cement ship and look for sharks in person Seacliff State Beach is only a short drive down the road.

SOUTH COUNTY

Moveable Murals
In the interest of creativity, the city of Watsonville engaged in a public arts project called Movable Murals. Each piece was created by a different artist and placed outside of city hall. Murals focus on topics such as the regions’ history, landscape, and people. Each year the pieces are moved to different locations to offer a fresh perspective. For more information, check the Pajaro Valley Arts website.

Watsonville Metro
“United by Pride, Dignity, and Knowledge” at the Watsonville Metro will remain in place as people come and go. The mural updated this year tells the story of culture and tradition in the community. It was completed as a a collaborative project by artist Guillermo (Yermo) Aranda and local youth.

Sabor
In Spanish “Sabor” means flavor. With its bright, strategically placed colors, this 62-foot-long mural pays homage to the artist’s roots and the community where it is located.

First Christian Church
Ome Garcia’s work uses bold color to create works which tell a story and provides intentionality. His recent project, Watsonville History Mural at First Christian Church, is no different. Rising up the bell tower are snapshots of the area’s history from the Strawberry owners who arrived in the early 20th century to the more current struggle for civil rights.

THE VALLEY

Remembering Sky Park Airport
Located on the back of the Scotts Valley Library, the Sky Park mural pays tribute to the Scotts Valley airport which operated from 1947 to 1983. Organized by Dawn Teall, the mural was completed by community members who volunteered to grab a brush and paint outlined sections on the wall.

James Dean
Alongside the iconic Brookdale Lodge leans an imposing figure, non-other than James Dean. The twenty-foot-tall mural was created by John Cerney. Each of his pieces are characterized by large cut out panels which use the surrounding area as the background. James Dean supposedly visited the lodge in its prime along with other Hollywood A-listers.

MORE NOT TO MISS MURALS

Clean Oceans Mural
It is hard to miss this 500 foot long mural dedicated to bringing awareness to marine pollution. Spanning what seems like the entire length of Mission Street, wide eyed sea otters tangle in beds of kelp can be seen as humans dive for plastic. If you want to dive into this color explosion, it is best seen on foot. Street parking can be found around the corner on Bay St.

On the River
The San Lorenzo River Walk spans Santa Cruz by following the curve of the river. In preparation for the Ebb and Flow River Festival, artist Sarah Bianco has begun work on a mural at the Tannery Arts Center depicting creatures of the San Lorenzo River. Located behind the main buildings, this work is an ever-expanding piece, so be sure to check it out again the next time you visit to see what magnificent beings are emerging from the paint.

Laurel Maxwell

December 1, 2020

Arts + Culture