Overview
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park sits in the Santa Cruz Mountains roughly three miles north of downtown Santa Cruz, California. Its centerpiece is a grove of old-growth coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) — some estimated to be more than 1,400 years old — that survived the logging era largely intact and now stand as one of the most accessible ancient redwood groves on the central California coast.
The park covers approximately 4,650 acres split across two separate units. The main (south) unit near Felton contains the famous Redwood Grove Loop and the bulk of visitor facilities. The north unit, sometimes called the Fall Creek Unit, offers a more remote backcountry experience with old lime kilns and creek canyon hiking, and sees far fewer visitors.
Beyond the iconic trees, Henry Cowell encompasses chaparral, mixed forest, riparian habitat along the San Lorenzo River, and open meadow, giving it genuine ecological diversity. The park is operated by California State Parks and is a practical day-trip destination from San Jose, Silicon Valley, and the greater Monterey Bay region.
Before You Go
Entry and Fees
California State Parks charges a day-use vehicle fee at the main entrance; verify the current amount at the official California State Parks website (parks.ca.gov) before visiting, as fees are updated periodically. Walk-in and bicycle access fees differ from vehicle fees — check locally. An annual California State Parks pass ("Adventure Pass" or equivalent) may offset costs for frequent visitors.
Reservations
Day-use generally does not require advance reservation, but the campground at the south unit does, especially on weekends from late spring through Labor Day. Book through ReserveCalifornia (reservecalifornia.com) as far ahead as possible for summer weekends.
What to Bring
- Layered clothing: the redwood grove stays cool and shaded even on warm days; temperatures can shift quickly
- Sturdy closed-toe shoes for unpaved trails
- Water and snacks — food options inside the park are limited
- A California State Parks map (available at the kiosk) or a downloaded offline map; cell coverage can be patchy
- Sunscreen and a hat for open chaparral sections
Dogs
Leashed dogs are permitted on some trails and in the campground, but are not allowed in the Redwood Grove day-use area. Confirm current rules at the entrance kiosk.
Getting There
By Car
From Santa Cruz: take Highway 9 north approximately five miles to the main park entrance on the right, near the town of Felton. Parking fills quickly on summer weekends; aim to arrive before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. From San Jose: Highway 17 south to Mount Hermon Road or Graham Hill Road, then connect to Highway 9 — roughly 40–50 minutes depending on traffic.
By Bus
Santa Cruz Metro (SCMTD) operates routes connecting downtown Santa Cruz and Felton. Route information, schedules, and fares should be verified directly on the SCMTD website (scmtd.com), as schedules change seasonally.
By Bicycle
The park is accessible via the Santa Cruz Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail (Rail Trail) corridor, which connects Santa Cruz and Felton. Cycling from downtown Santa Cruz takes roughly 30–45 minutes on a mostly flat, paved path. This is a practical and enjoyable alternative to driving on busy summer days.
Nearest Airports
Mineta San José International Airport (SJC) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) are the primary gateways; Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is a smaller option to the south. All require a rental car or ground transportation to reach the park.
Getting Around
The park is best explored on foot. Trail distances are manageable — the Redwood Grove Loop is just under one mile and is largely flat, making it suitable for most fitness levels including young children. For those wanting a longer outing, the River Trail, Pine Trail, and Ridge Fire Road extend the options considerably and reach views over Monterey Bay on clear days.
The Fall Creek Unit of the park has its own trailhead off Felton Empire Road and is not connected by trail to the main south unit, so driving between them is necessary. Trails in the Fall Creek Unit are more rugged and less signposted; a detailed map is recommended before entering.
Bicycles are permitted on fire roads within the park but are restricted from most singletrack trails. Verify current trail access rules at the entrance, as they are subject to change.
Things to See & Do
Redwood Grove Loop
This is the park's signature experience — a short, nearly level loop through a stand of ancient coast redwoods with interpretive signs explaining the ecology and history of the grove. The sheer scale of the trees, some reaching over 250 feet tall, is the draw. It is genuinely impressive and worth prioritizing regardless of how much time you have.
Longer Hiking
The Eagle Creek Trail, Pine Trail, and Ridge Fire Road can be combined for a half- or full-day hike that transitions from redwood forest into chaparral and opens onto panoramic views. The elevation gain is moderate. Trail conditions vary by season — after heavy winter rain, lower creek trails can be muddy or flooded.
Fall Creek Unit
The north unit rewards those willing to make the short drive. Trails follow Fall Creek through a narrow canyon past 19th-century lime kiln ruins — an unusual piece of industrial heritage tucked into the forest. This unit is quieter and suited to visitors seeking a more solitary experience.
Wildlife Observation
The park supports a range of wildlife including banana slugs (a local icon), Steller's jays, acorn woodpeckers, black-tailed deer, and — along the San Lorenzo River — steelhead trout during winter runs. The river section is a good spot for quiet observation.
Stargazing and Astronomy Programs
The park's meadow area has historically hosted public star-gazing events organized by the Santa Cruz Astronomy Club. Verify whether programs are currently scheduled, as they depend on volunteer availability and seasonal conditions.
Food & Drink
There are no restaurants or food concessions inside Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Packing a picnic is the standard approach; the park has designated picnic areas near the main entrance and throughout the grove.
The town of Felton, immediately adjacent to the park, has a small selection of cafes, a grocery store, and casual dining options that can serve as a before- or after-hike stop. Felton is a relaxed, informal community — expect counter-service spots and local bakeries rather than fine dining.
Downtown Santa Cruz, about 15–20 minutes by car, has a much broader range of restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries along Pacific Avenue and the beach district. The farmers' market in Santa Cruz (schedule varies by season — verify locally) is a worthwhile stop if timing allows.
Practical Information
Contact and Information
The park is managed by California State Parks. The official information page at parks.ca.gov is the authoritative source for current fees, hours, trail closures, and campground availability. Hours vary by season.
Restrooms and Facilities
Flush restrooms are available at the main parking area near the grove. The campground has additional facilities. Running water is available, but carry your own drinking water on longer hikes away from the main area.
Connectivity
Mobile phone coverage is inconsistent inside the park, particularly on ridge and canyon trails. Download offline maps and any navigation tools before arriving.
Accessibility
The Redwood Grove Loop is largely accessible for visitors with mobility limitations, though the surface is compacted natural material rather than paved. Contact California State Parks in advance to confirm current accessibility conditions and any adaptive program availability.
Emergency Services
In an emergency, call 911. Cell coverage limitations mean you may need to reach higher ground or exit the park to get a signal. Inform someone of your hiking plan before entering the backcountry.
Safety
Henry Cowell is a low-risk park for most visitors, but standard wilderness safety practices apply. Trails can become slippery after rain, and creek levels along the San Lorenzo and Fall Creek can rise rapidly in winter and early spring — respect any closure signs.
Poison oak is present throughout the park, particularly on sunny, open slopes. Learn to identify it ("leaves of three, let it be") and avoid contact. Mountain lions are present in the Santa Cruz Mountains; sightings in the park are uncommon but not unheard of. California State Parks posts current wildlife advisories at trailheads — read them before heading out.
The park occasionally closes or restricts access during extreme fire weather (red flag conditions). Check park status before visiting during dry summer and autumn months, particularly if there are active fires anywhere in the region.
