Translate
Overview
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park sits in the Santa Cruz Mountains near the city of Felton, roughly 8 miles north of Santa Cruz. The park protects a significant stand of old-growth coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens), some of which are estimated to be well over 1,000 years old. A second, more dispersed unit known as the Fall Creek Unit lies a short drive away and offers a quieter backcountry experience.
The park covers approximately 4,650 acres and contains more than 15 miles of trails ranging from a flat, accessible redwood loop to longer ridge routes with views across Monterey Bay. The San Lorenzo River runs through the property, providing habitat for steelhead trout and a pleasant riparian corridor for hikers.
Because of its proximity to Santa Cruz, San Jose, and San Francisco, Henry Cowell draws a broad mix of visitors: local families, cyclists, bird-watchers, and travelers making a day trip from the Bay Area. It is considered one of the more accessible old-growth redwood experiences in California without requiring a long drive north to Humboldt County.
Before You Go
Park Access and Reservations
Day-use parking can fill quickly on summer weekends and holiday weekends. California State Parks operates a reservation and information system — verify current day-use and camping reservation procedures on the California State Parks website before your visit, as policies and fees change seasonally.
What to Bring
- Layers: the redwood canopy keeps temperatures noticeably cooler and more humid than surrounding areas even in summer
- Sturdy, closed-toe footwear for unpaved trails
- Water and snacks — there are no food concessions inside the park
- Sun protection for open ridge trails outside the canopy
- A park map, available at the entrance kiosk or downloadable from the California State Parks site
Dogs and Bicycles
Pets on leash are permitted on some trails but prohibited in others, including the main Redwood Grove Loop. Bicycles are restricted to designated fire roads and are not allowed on the redwood loop trail. Confirm current rules on the official park page before arriving.
Getting There
By Car
The main park entrance is located on Highway 9 in Felton. From Santa Cruz, take Highway 9 north approximately 6 miles. From San Jose or the Bay Area, Highway 17 south to Santa Cruz, then Highway 9 north, is the most common route. Parking is available in the main day-use lot; verify fee and payment method on the California State Parks website.
By Bus
Santa Cruz Metro operates bus service connecting Santa Cruz and Felton. Routes and schedules change; check the Santa Cruz Metro website for current timetables before your trip. The bus stop is within walking distance of the park entrance, making this a viable car-free option from the city of Santa Cruz.
By Train (Roaring Camp Railroads)
Roaring Camp Railroads, a heritage steam railroad located immediately adjacent to the park in Felton, runs excursion trains through the redwoods. Some routes allow visitors to disembark near park trails. Verify schedules and current operations directly with Roaring Camp, as seasonal schedules apply.
Bicycle
Cyclists can reach the park via Highway 9, though the road has limited shoulders in places and requires caution. The park is also accessible from Santa Cruz via the unpaved but popular Rincon Trail.
Getting Around
The park is explored primarily on foot. The main Redwood Grove Loop Trail is a roughly 0.8-mile flat loop and is the most visited path, circling the largest old-growth trees. It is largely accessible and suitable for most fitness levels.
Longer trails — including the Ridge Fire Road, Pine Trail, and Powder Mill Fire Road — connect to the upper sections of the park and the Fall Creek Unit, where multi-hour hikes are possible. Trail junctions are generally signed, but carrying the official park map is recommended as cell service can be unreliable under the canopy.
Within the park, all travel is non-motorized once you have parked. The Fall Creek Unit has a separate, unsigned trailhead and a different character — more remote and less visited — and requires its own visit rather than a walk from the main entrance.
Things to See & Do
Hiking
The Redwood Grove Loop is the essential starting point, passing through a cathedral-like grove of towering old-growth redwoods. For a longer outing, combine it with the Eagle Creek Trail or the Ridge Fire Road for views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and, on clear days, Monterey Bay. The Fall Creek Unit rewards those who seek solitude, with a lime kiln ruin and a creek-side trail through second-growth and old-growth forest.
Wildlife Watching
The park supports a range of wildlife including banana slugs, Steller's jays, woodpeckers, great horned owls, and black-tailed deer. The San Lorenzo River corridor provides habitat for steelhead trout (seasonal runs occur in winter and early spring) and river otters have been observed periodically.
Picnicking
Designated picnic areas are available near the main entrance. These tend to fill early on warm weekends; arriving before mid-morning is advisable.
Roaring Camp Railroads
The adjacent Roaring Camp Railroads operates narrow-gauge steam train excursions through the redwoods and a standard-gauge line to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This is a popular family activity; verify schedules and book in advance during peak season.
Camping
The park has a campground with tent and RV sites. Reservations are handled through the California State Parks reservation system (ReserveCalifornia). Availability, especially in summer, can be limited — book well in advance.
Food & Drink
There are no food or beverage vendors inside Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Visitors should bring their own water and food. Outdoor water faucets may be available near the campground and picnic area — verify locally, as seasonal availability can vary.
The town of Felton, immediately adjacent to the park on Highway 9, has a small selection of cafes, a brewery, and casual dining options suitable for a pre- or post-hike meal. The city of Santa Cruz, about 15–20 minutes south by car, offers a much wider range of restaurants, coffee shops, and grocery stores for stocking up before your visit.
If you are camping overnight, note that food must be stored in bear-proof containers or in your vehicle — black bears are present in the Santa Cruz Mountains, and park regulations require proper food storage.
Practical Information
Fees and Hours
The park charges a day-use vehicle fee; verify the current amount and any changes on the California State Parks website (parks.ca.gov). The park is generally open daily, but hours vary by season and area. Confirm before departure.
Connectivity and Facilities
Cell service is limited or absent in parts of the park, particularly under the forest canopy. Download offline maps in advance. Restrooms are available at the main parking area and campground. There is no Wi-Fi in the park.
Accessibility
The Redwood Grove Loop Trail is relatively flat and suitable for strollers and many mobility devices, though the surface is natural packed dirt. Contact California State Parks directly for detailed accessibility information for specific trails and facilities.
Emergency Services
In a genuine emergency, dial 911. Cell reception is unreliable inside the park — inform someone of your itinerary before hiking, particularly for longer routes in the Fall Creek Unit.
Safety
Wildlife
Black bears inhabit the Santa Cruz Mountains. Follow all posted food-storage regulations and never leave food unattended at a campsite or picnic table. Rattlesnakes are occasionally encountered on sunny, rocky portions of trails — watch where you step and place your hands, and give any snake ample space. Mountain lions are present in the region but sightings are uncommon.
Trail Hazards
Poison oak is common throughout the park, particularly off-trail and at lower elevations. Learn to identify its three-leaflet form before your visit. Fallen branches (known in redwood forests as "widow-makers") can occur without warning — avoid sheltering under large trees during high winds.
Water
Do not drink from streams or the San Lorenzo River without proper filtration or treatment. Giardia and other waterborne pathogens are a possibility in backcountry water sources.
