TranslateOverview
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park sits in the Santa Cruz Mountains just outside the small town of Felton, California, roughly 6 miles north of Santa Cruz. The park preserves a significant stand of old-growth coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens), some of which are estimated to be several hundred years old and measure more than 50 feet in circumference.
The park covers approximately 4,650 acres and is divided into two distinct sections: the main Felton unit, which contains the famous redwood grove and most visitor facilities, and the Graham Hill unit to the south. The San Lorenzo River flows through the park, adding riparian habitat to the mix of redwood forest, ponderosa pine, and chaparral ecosystems.
Beyond the trees themselves, the park is popular for picnicking, swimming in the river (seasonally), birdwatching, and connecting to longer trail networks in the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains. Its accessibility from the San Francisco Bay Area and Monterey Bay region makes it a frequently visited day-trip destination.
Before You Go
Park Fees and Reservations
California State Parks charges a day-use parking fee at Henry Cowell. Fees change periodically — verify the current rate on the California State Parks official website (parks.ca.gov) or at the entrance kiosk. If you plan to camp, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on summer weekends, and can be made through ReserveCalifornia.
What to Bring
- Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots; trails can be damp and rooted
- Layers — redwood groves stay noticeably cooler and darker than surrounding areas
- Water and snacks; there are no food vendors inside the park
- Sunscreen for open chaparral sections of the trail network
- A trail map (available at the visitor center or downloadable from parks.ca.gov)
Park Rules
- Dogs are permitted on leash in most areas but are prohibited on certain trails; check signage at trailheads
- No collecting of plants, fungi, or natural materials
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings; during fire-season restrictions, wood fires may be prohibited entirely — verify before your visit
- Drones are not permitted in California State Parks
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 Silicon Valley, Highway 17 south to Santa Cruz connects to Highway 9 north. Parking is available inside the park entrance; the lot can fill quickly on summer weekends and holidays, so an early arrival is advisable.
By Bus
Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District (Santa Cruz METRO) operates bus service along the Highway 9 corridor connecting Santa Cruz and Felton. Routes and schedules change — verify current service at scmtd.com before your trip. The bus stop in Felton is within reasonable walking distance of the park entrance.
By Train (Scenic)
Roaring Camp Railroads, located adjacent to the park in Felton, operates a narrow-gauge steam train that runs through the redwood grove itself. This is primarily a tourist attraction rather than practical transportation, but it offers a memorable way to experience the forest canopy. Check Roaring Camp's website for current operating schedules and fares.
From San Francisco
The drive from San Francisco is approximately 75–90 minutes under normal traffic conditions via Highway 17. No direct public transit from San Francisco to Felton exists; connecting through Santa Cruz by bus or train (Caltrain to Santa Cruz METRO) is possible but time-consuming — verify options locally.
Getting Around
The park is best explored on foot. The main Redwood Grove Loop Trail is a roughly 1.5-mile flat loop through the old-growth grove and is accessible to most visitors, including those with limited mobility on the paved section near the visitor center. Interpretive signs along the loop identify key trees and ecological features.
Beyond the grove, the park has approximately 15 miles of trails ranging from easy river walks to more strenuous climbs into chaparral and pine zones with views of Monterey Bay. The Pipeline Road and Eagle Creek Trail connect to the adjacent Forest of Nisene Marks State Park for those seeking longer routes.
Bicycles are permitted on certain fire roads but not on single-track hiking trails. No shuttles operate within the park; all trail access is self-guided.
Things to See & Do
Walk the Redwood Grove
The Redwood Grove Loop is the park's centerpiece experience. The ancient trees create a cathedral-like atmosphere, with filtered light, deep quiet, and the smell of damp wood and soil. The 'Father of the Forest' tree near the loop is among the most photographed specimens.
Hiking Beyond the Grove
The Powder Mill Fire Road and Ridge Fire Road lead into open ridgeline terrain where ponderosa pine and chamise chaparral replace the dense forest. On clear days, views extend toward Monterey Bay. The Pipeline Road parallels the San Lorenzo River and is popular with birdwatchers.
Swimming and River Access
The San Lorenzo River has swimming holes used by locals during summer months. Conditions vary with seasonal water levels and water quality; check current advisories before entering. There is no lifeguard service.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Adjacent to the park, Roaring Camp operates two heritage railways: a narrow-gauge steam train through the redwoods and a broad-gauge train to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Operating days and fares vary by season — check roaringcamp.com directly.
Wildlife Watching
The park supports Steller's jays, acorn woodpeckers, great horned owls, banana slugs, black-tailed deer, and occasional mountain lion activity in the broader landscape. Banana slugs — large, bright yellow native slugs — are a particular point of interest for visitors unfamiliar with the ecosystem.
Food & Drink
There are no restaurants or food concessions inside the park. The visitor center may stock a small number of packaged snacks and water; verify locally. Picnic areas with tables are available near the main grove and are a practical option for a packed lunch.
The town of Felton, a short drive or walk from the park entrance along Highway 9, has a small concentration of cafes, a grocery store, and casual dining options. Verifying current business hours before your visit is advisable, as Felton is a small community and hours can be limited.
Santa Cruz, roughly 6 miles south, offers a much wider range of dining from casual taquerias and seafood spots on the wharf to independent coffee shops and farm-to-table restaurants. Many visitors plan their park visit around a meal stop in Santa Cruz.
Practical Information
Visitor Center
The park visitor center near the main grove entrance provides trail maps, interpretive exhibits on redwood ecology, and ranger assistance. Hours vary by season — confirm at parks.ca.gov or by calling the park directly before your visit.
Restrooms
Flush restrooms and vault toilets are available near the main parking area and at the campground. Facilities may be limited during the off-season.
Connectivity
Cell service is spotty to nonexistent in the deeper parts of the park. Download trail maps and any needed information before arrival.
Accessibility
A paved section of the Redwood Grove Loop near the visitor center is accessible to wheelchair users and visitors with strollers. The remainder of the trail network involves uneven, rooted, or unpaved surfaces. Contact the park in advance if you have specific accessibility needs.
Emergency Contacts
In any emergency, dial 911. For non-emergency park concerns, contact California State Parks through the official website or the park's listed phone number (verify current contact information at parks.ca.gov).
Safety
The park is generally safe for visitors who observe standard hiking precautions. Trails can become muddy and slippery after rain; be particularly cautious near river banks. Poison oak is common throughout the park — learn to identify it ('leaves of three, let it be') and stay on marked trails to minimize contact.
Mountain lions are present in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife recommends making noise while hiking, keeping children close, and not running if you encounter one. Sightings in the main grove area are rare, but awareness is appropriate.
Fire risk is significant during dry months. Respect all posted fire restrictions and never leave campfires unattended. Check current fire conditions through CAL FIRE (fire.ca.gov) before your visit, especially July through October.
The San Lorenzo River can experience flash flooding after heavy rain events in winter and spring. Avoid river crossings or low-lying areas during or immediately after storms.
