Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

This place is so wonderful and filled with beauty. There are a lot of trails, and you can’t beat the feeling of being in the woods. Also, there are banana slugs!

Serendipity got us here. I was on my way to Pogonip but my GPS was going in and out due to the mountains that I drove aimlessly and stopped when I saw where I could potentially bust a U-​turn.
Saw signage that we’ve arrived at Henry Cowell Redwoods and I did not want to leave because of the beautiful yet wet scenery. Everything seems to be well marked so if you follow the trails and signs, you will not get lost.
I love walking alongside the railroad tracks. It’s old. It has tons of mold growing on it. The tracks were heavily cracked. I even saw mushrooms growing out one of them. It was just the perfect setting for Gavin and I to get out and explore.
Selfishly, every time I am on any sort of trail, I make a workout out of it but yesterday was the first time I just walked (super slow might I add) so that Gavin can run and climb. He fell about 3x but that is normal now. He used to fall 1,000x a day.
Very glad we got lost and ended up here.
Gavin and I had a blast.

I honestly love this place. I used to go here a lot but every time I visit, it never fails to amaze me. The scenery is beautiful and the air is refreshing. I advise everyone to come here and wear some good hiking shoes because those trails are steep. The best time to go here is fall because all the colors just make the whole forest pop. God I love this place!

Ummm yes, this place is quite a gem. I would like to be unselfish and share its secrets since it’s been a while since I already graduated, but I don’t want to because I still come back just for this place!
Bottom line, this is home to the Garden of Eden and I ain’t trying to make this place public information.
Regardless, this park is beautiful if you’re looking to go into the wilderness and enjoy some fresh air. I can’t say that I’ve explored all of it, but I must say that i’m a sucker for water and railroad tracks.

Lots of parking. Great visitor center. Lots of shade from weird Cali weather. Nice little drive on highway 9 to get there. I love the smell of trees and love the sound of the train in the distance

I’ve been coming here for the longest time! I just went again recently, and it was as good as I remembered. We took the river trail, which was actually somewhat complicated, and we ended up hiking almost 10 miles over almost 6 hours. It wasn’t too difficult of a hike, except it was pretty long and we had to do 4 river crossings, although only one of them required us to actually take off our shoes and go. The other ones we found rocks to cross the river. It was actually pretty fun, as I’ve never had to actually take off my shoes and cross the river during a hike before.
We made a stop at the observatory as well, and there was a much-​needed water fountain there with cold water! There was also a bench there to take a rest, although most of that area was in the sun.
There are map stands scattered around the trails, which is nice, but the park doesn’t provide detailed maps for the longer hikes! My friend had to buy the map on an app, although it helped us by providing GPS location during our hike too.
If you’re looking for a place to hike, this is a great place to go. There are a lot of redwood trees, and the majority of the trails are shaded. Highly recommended!

It appears that everyone seems to go the wrong way when looking for the hiking entrance to this park. When we pulled up to the camping section’s ranger station, the ranger was *actually* cutting out instructions on how to get to the hiking trail… How creepy-​yet-​awesome is that?
It was a Saturday and the parking lot was full, just as an FYI. A lot of people parked outside of the lot (to avoid the $ 10 charge), but that’d require walking about ¾ of a mile — on a road with no cover from the sun — before reaching the actual place you want to walk at.
Having spent the majority of my twenties exploring Northern Oregon, I’m used to dirt trails. Mud trails. Horse/​dog/​Sasquatch poop trails. Twist-​your-​ankle trails. But what I’m not used to are wide cement paved «trails». And wood rails along the sides of the path, separating the humans from the wilderness. When I go hiking, I like to be fully absorbed in nature, on all sides. The trail set-​up felt more like we were going on a tour. BUT, even though I kind of scrunched up my nose to this at first, it sort of grew on me after awhile. I understand how important it is to preserve our natural spaces and to practice the «leave no trace» methods. Especially since these poor redwoods had already been ravaged by a huge fire around 100 years ago. Poor conifers. You could see the remnants of burn marks on a lot of the trees. But there were also many trees that had healed from their charred wounds.
The day was perfect! Overcast (I’ve always loved how a gray sky compliments the big green trees) and cool. There were several trails to choose from, which is always awesome — a family can take the kids on a quick one mile hike, or the more vigorous folks can traverse an eight mile hike through the Pipeline trail. There are also some trails that allow horses, and I think (don’t quote me on this) dogs are allowed on leash.
We ended up walking a couple miles then turning back the way we came, and it was just what I needed. Refreshing, inspiring, and invigorating. It also made me want a PBR. Thus, I imbibed.
Definitely worth a look.

Henry Cowell Redwoods is a majestic state park featuring grand redwoods (obviously, it’s in the name!), and something a little less well-​known and obvious: river crossings. If you’re searching for more oomph in your summer hikes, then I’d recommend river hiking at Henry Cowell. The water level of the San Lorenzo River recedes during the late summer months (July — August). But honestly with our terrible drought, river crossings might be doable year-​round here (if you don’t mind really cold water). Most of the crossings weren’t very deep; the water touches your knees or mid-​thigh at the highest.
With any hike, but especially river crossings, you need to be well prepared. The most essential gear is proper footwear. It might sound counterintuitive but do not wear waterproof shoes/​boots because the Gore-​Tex material actually traps water/​perspiration. It’s not fun dragging extra water weight in your shoes while you’re hiking. And of course, make sure to bring enough water, sunblock, snacks (trail mix, protein bars, etc.), a hat (there are some exposed parts with no shade), towels, socks, and a map (
).
Below is a detailed outline/​description of my river hike, a loop totaling 6.2 miles. A normal hike of this length will take me about 3 hours to complete, but since this was my first experience river hiking, it lasted half a day. You definitely hike slower in the water as well. So again, plan accordingly.
Park at the Rincon parking area on Highway 9 (no parking fee). The trailhead starts at the Rincon Fire Road. The trail crosses a set of railroad tracks and begins to descend through superb redwood scenery.
CROSSING #1:
Continue on Rincon Fire Rd until you reach a sign for «Diversion Dam Trail». Turn right at this sign and go towards the river. This is the first crossing! Cross the river straight ahead and look for a trail going left, gaining in elevation. This is Rincon Fire Rd again.
CROSSING #2:
Follow Rincon Fire Rd until it meets Big Rock Hole Trail. Turn right onto the trail and climb downhill until you reach a sandy river bank. Do not cross the river here! Instead, turn left and walk along the river bank until no further progress is possible. This is where you cross the river. Cross straight towards Buckeye Trail on the other side. (We took our lunch break here on the rocks of the river. It was absolutely gorgeous and the water was so calm and pristine.)
CROSSING #3:
The next crossing is very close. Traverse along Buckeye Trail to reach the third crossing. Do not go straight across. Cross it diagonally, to the right. There was a pile of rocks here (cairn) to guide visitors. Up to this point, I hiked in my water shoes with no socks. However, after this third river crossing, the next crossing was pretty far away so I washed out my shoes in the water, let them dry in the sun for 15 minutes as I explored the river, then dried off my feet and slipped on my socks and shoes. The next leg of the hike is pretty strenuous with some switchbacks and steep ascents, which you might want to perform with socks so your feet are comfortable.
So, follow Buckeye Trail, turn left onto Pipeline Road, then turn left onto Rincon Fire Rd, and one more left onto Big Rock Hole Trail. You could continue on Rincon but my boyfriend and I wanted to hike through Cathedral Redwoods so we made a detour onto Big Rock Hole. Both trails lead to the same place but I highly recommend dropping by Cathedral Redwoods – it’s exactly what it sounds like, beautiful groves of old growth redwood trees soaring high into the sky. Simply stunning.
CROSSING #4:
After hanging out at Cathedral Redwoods, continue on Big Rock Hole. Make a right onto Rincon Fire Rd, and then another right onto Diversion Dam Road. Within 0.2 miles, the trail ends at a sandy beach next to the river. This is Frisbee Beach. The Diversion Dam Trail is right behind a large rocky structure. Follow this trail until it intersects Rincon Fire Rd (there is a sign at this junction). Then follow Rincon Fire Rd to return to the parking lot on Highway 9.
Quick summary:
Rincon Fire Rd
** RIVER CROSSING I **
Rincon Fire Rd
Big Rock Hole Trail
** RIVER CROSSING II **
Buckeye Tail
** RIVER CROSSING III **
Buckeye Trail
Pipeline Rd
Rincon Fire Rd
Big Rock Hole Trail (Cathedral Redwoods)
Rincon Fire Rd
Diversion Dam Trail
** RIVER CROSSING IV **
Rincon Fire Rd
You can create your own route with as many or few river crossings as you’d wish. Whatever you’re comfortable with! Remember that the water is cold when you first step in but you’ll adjust. Be cautious when crossing the river because some spots have slippery rocks with moss. There were all sorts of junk and pebbles that swished around in our shoes so dedicate some time for taking care of this. Most importantly, have fun! River crossings in the bay aren’t that common so enjoy!

This review is only for the campground. Honestly the campground and the state park should be listed separately in Unilocal because they are very different experiences. I’m sure the park is nice. The campground has its charm, but it’s not a redwood park experience. So don’t confuse the positive reviews of the park as reflective of the campground.
Positives
— decently clean facilities (real structures, not porta-​potties, coin showers, pretty hot water for the most part)
— site layout is decent, everything is walkable (you’re not rubbing up next to each other like a parking lot)
— generally clean
— fire pits are sturdy drums with a solid grill (covering a third of the circle)
— no big RV’s overloading the place
— staff are courteous
— close to Scotts Valley if you need things
— close to Felton trains
Negatives
— poison oak (so you have to be mindful of where your kids are going)
— the ground is a dusty, sand that just clings to everything
— lots of kids and families (not for people who are noise sensitive or hoping for a secluded experience)
— not suited for big groups (6 is max, 8 people per site is pushing it.)
Will I go back… probably if we lived closer or had not other options available. Totally understand why locals would love it for a quick weekend outdoors.

I have mixed feelings about this park. No doubt that it is gorgeous and is also quite large. My boyfriend and I were really wanting to hike while in Scotts Valley because he has never visited this part of California and has definitely never seen a real redwood tree. He was very excited to see them, but because they are not as prominent here as in Northern California, we thought going to this actual redwood park would be our best bet.
The map that is provided is not the best one so it is a bit confusing to really tell what each path is. We asked the woman in the gift shop what she recommended and she said «the loop». The Loop is obviously the most poplar path as it was so crowded! There are definitely huge redwood trees along this path and I’d recommend it as a nice stroll with the family, but not for anyone wanting to hike. It is about 30 minutes of flat walking trail. We then came across The River Trail and liked this one a bit more. It was far less populated as we only came across to gals on horses, but other than that were alone. This walk was a little more fun because it went along the (very low) river and we were able to go off the path into smaller paths.
In the end, we wish we would have gone straight for one of the other trails up in the mountains, Garden of Eden or Cathedral, because they would have provided much more exercise and better scenery. By the time we finished what the woman recommended though, we were running short of time for our other plans.
I would also recommend not wearing shorts if you plan to do anything other than The Loop because there is poison ivy all along the others and that would not make for a fun trip!

My favorite place to see the Redwoods. It’s a short loop trail, so it’s easy for everyone. I’ve seen deer a couple of times, and also their famous Banana Slugs, very cool.
Easy access, plenty of parking, restrooms, a shop and a wildlife exhibit. You can also ride on the Roaring Camp Railroad from here.
And if you want a longer hike, you can go ahead and venture into the woods, cross the train tracks or the bridge, go to the river, etc.

This place is absolutely gorgeous. I had to pay a $ 10 parking fee. I planned on walking the ox trail to get to the Garden of Eden, but I ended up Redwood Grove since I was confused on where to go. I walked the entire loop trail and ended where I first started. The map didn’t help much so I asked a woman nearby. She explained that I have to keep driving on HWY 9, passed the park entrance, and the ox trail gate will be on my left. She said parking is free too.
I went out hoping I could get a parking refund, but the employee just gave me back the parking ticket that could be used for all state beaches in Santa Cruz. She is an extremely kind and helpful woman who gave me extra information on how to get to the ox trail. I found the ox trail, which was a little more than a mile to drive, and parked on the side of the road.
I followed the train tracks, according to the Unilocal reviews, but I could no longer see the brook. I turned back and saw a few people with towels, so I assume they are going to the Garden of Eden too. They went to a random spot and decided to climb down the REALLY STEEP AND DANGEROUS HILL to get to the brook. I followed them and risked my life to get to this place. One girl dropped her phone and her friend tried to get it for her but she slipped and almost slid down a small cliff. After that, we found the Garden of Eden and got into the water. If you go keep going further down, there are some brook areas that are about 4 ft deep.
When I was done, I climbed back up and it was equally as dangerous but there are branches, logs, and one sturdy rope to hold on to. As I walked back, I saw a couple casually walking down a paved dirt path to the brook. I felt so stupid. I found the east path to get down to the brook and there are multiple signs that hint to the Garden of Eden area, like the «No diving» sign. They really need to label this place more. But it was a GREAT experience. The brook is a pretty secluded area. I was able to skinny dip. I’ve never been so in touch with nature.

This has to be my favorite place this summer. We’ve been here twice now in a two week period and each time was a different adventure. I love the majestic redwood trees. The river provides hours of fun for the kids. There are many different trails to take for a variety. The state park is massive so even when it’s crowded, you wouldn’t be able to tell unless you look the parking lot. The tress provide plenty of shade. It’s a clean park and best part of it all, this park allows dogs. I have a hiking buddy with me next time I come again.

Great place to visit. Beautiful hikes with tons of wildlife.
I’m giving this three stars for the campground. What kind of campground does not allow campers to bring alcohol. This is probably why this spot seems to be pretty empty most of the day.

It’s easy to impress this city girl with nature! But wow what a gem this place is! We skipped out on the $ 10 parking fee and parked our car on the side of the street. We entered through an opening with a gate. I love the sequoia trees here, the creek is peaceful and the train tracks add a mysterious touch to the trail. The hiking trails are leisurely. There’s a sign that says no dogs, but I saw people bring their dogs. Breath taking scenery! We didn’t get too far due to time restrictions, but I would definitely love to come back and explore deeper into the woods :)

Stopped here in the morning before heading down to Monterey. What can I say, simply breathtaking scenery throughout the park. There is a very flat loop which takes you to all of the main attractions. The flat terrain was ideal as we were with someone who has some problems getting around.
There is an interesting history here as a camp town was built within the redwood forest. One of the redwoods (I believe Fremont) was so large it served as the bedroom for the town official. You can stoop down to look inside the tree and it is huge!
As we were walking around we saw our first banana slug. Ugly as could be but interesting story about why they are there among the redwoods.
If you love redwoods, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a must visit when in the area.

One of the better dog– friendly hikes. Came here last weekend with my husband and husky in tow. Paid the $ 10 (steep but understandable) parking fee. We got a map and a dog treat at the gate as well.
When you walk to the trail area there is 3 or 4 different paths to take. Sadly only one is dog friendly. The hike was a good mix of flat land and incline. I’d give it an easy-​moderate rating. Its 95% shaded which is awesome for hot sunny days. Plus its just beautiful between the old redwoods, streams, sounds, and BANANA SLUGS.
After a big incline up the hill there’s a pay off with a nice outlook and quaint bench. Coming down is extremely steep so take your time and enjoy the view.
Not sure how the other trails are. Wish I could have checked them out with the pup :(Definitely a must see park if your in the area.

Let me start of saying… This place is a one in a million. 1 mile redwood loop, 100 year train tussell, and 2000 year old trees.
Great spot to take the family young and old. There’s an observation lookout tower, countless hiking trails as well as a river with beaches to picnic and rest on. There is paid parking however I always park on Highway nine in walk in.
The Redwood Loop is my favorite. Not only is it a good place to run, it has a breath taking trees that will make you fall down there so big.
Just outside of the Redwood Loop are additional trails where I have found a four leaf clover’s, five leaf clovers, as well as a six leaf clover. I highly recommend this place especially if you have family who are from out of town and not familiar with the magnificent size of a redwood tree.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a very walkable park with a variety of trails for even leisure walkers. Tucked away in the Santa Cruz mountains, it’s totally worth a stop if you’re spending a weekend there away from the city.
Lots of different routes you can take to explore the park. We chose to follow the river trail but be careful of horse poop along the way. Obviously the redwoods are the stars but there’s plenty of flora and fauna to discover. Pretty cool to see the redwoods up close and in some cases go in them. It’s also super family-​friendly with the Santa Cruz Big Trees & Pacific Railway Station right next to the park with activities, performances, and rides.
All in all, an easy intro to nature for city folk looking to escape the concrete jungle for a few hours. #nature101

Serene, beautiful.
Info: Parking lots, garden of eden attempt
First time up here. I really wanted to see Garden of Eden with a supposed waterfall. No evidence as of now. I went in the morning so no one else was around on a Friday morning at ⁹³⁰⁄₁₀ am. As you drive up the 9 freeway there are two parking lots before you reach the main park. Those two lots you don’t have to pay for. The first lot is rincon and the second is ox. Quick tips if you don’t want to read further: rincon is better lot for a good hike. It’s very shady, making it cold in the morning so bring a jacket. Download the PARK BROCHURE for the map on the last page from the park’s website:
Based off the map, Ox trail led to the Garden of Eden. I parked and followed the trail. Very spacious trail. Follow it parallel to the freeway basically. From ox parking lot it’s only about 10 minutes. Once you see the train tracks walk down it in the same general direction youve been going and theres a small path to the left. And youll be there in minutes. Maybe it was the timing, the drought, or there’s another path — I don’t know… But the river was very shallow and there wasn’t too much to see, but it was very peaceful nonetheless AND you’re right along the river bed which is super chill. I enjoyed my peaceful walk through the redwoods. Ox Trail difficulty=-1. X] Its literally a stroll through the forest. If you prefer difficult trails like I do, try a different trail…
RINCON TRAIL. (The first parking lot) It looks great from the map. You can go to Frisbee beach or big rock hole. They look short and quick but it looks like a lot of trails branch from it so you will have a lot more options.
Otherwise, if you got time and money, go up the 9 into the park and hike from there to those destinations since it’ll be longer and more challenging.