Join Ranger Brian on early morning First Day Hike!What to Expect: This .7 mile loop trail features slight elevation gains. Big Basin is a forest in recovery following the devastating CZU Fire of 2020. Throughout the hike we'll discuss the role that fire plays in the area's ecology, and the past and future of Big Basin. Length of Hike: 0.7 mile, 1 hoursPreparation: Dress in layers, including raingear. Sturdy hiking boots or shoes are recommended. Mornings in Big Basin can be foggy and damp. There is currently no potable water in Big Basin, so bring bottled water or purchase at the kiosk. Special Instructions: The hike will happen rain or shine. The trail may be muddy and slippery, so shoes with ankle support are recommended. The most direct route to Big Basin is from Highway 236 from downtown Boulder Creek. Parking: Parking is $10 per car payable by debit, credit, or Apple Pay only. No cash accepted. Parking may be reserved ahead of time for $8. Details: https://www.cognitoforms.com/FSCSP1/bigbasinparkingAges: All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pets allowed? No 

Where: The Forest of Nisene Marks at George's Picnic Area next to the steel bridge. When: 9:00 am - 1:00 pmWhat: Join us for a four mile, 4 hour walk to the site where  the town of Loma Prieta was located and the hidden spot  deep in the redwood forest where marine fossils can be found. We will encounter the remains of the old lumber mill, follow the trail of the ghost trestles and learn about the wonders of our giant redwoods and their survival. No pets allowed.What to Bring: Bring warm layers, the forest can be cold this time of year. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a walking stick, water and a light snack. Parking: Vehicle day use fee is $8.00.

Join State Park Docents for a two-hour hike along the scenic Gray Whale Cove Trail at State Parks’ McNee Ranch at Montara.  Enjoy a moderate 2 mile hike overlooking the California coast.  From the trail you will be able to view evidence in the landscape of the Ocean Shore Railroad and bunkers left over from the World War II era. Enjoy the ocean views, the coastal plants, and the birds on this exciting hike. Meet on the north side of the Gray Whale Cove State Beach parking lot on Highway 1. If you have any questions or concerns please contact [email protected] or call (650) 726-8814.Click here to make your reservation today! 

Join State Park Docents on a leisurely two-hour walk. Take a journey back in time along Mills Creek at Burleigh H. Murray Ranch State Park. This walk will be a 2.5 miles round trip hike with only a small gain in elevation. Along the way you will learn about the lives of early pioneers and farming families who first settled here in the 19th century.  Enjoy one of our area’s hidden treasures. Meet in the parking lot. For more information, call (650) 726-8814.Click here to make your reservation today!

Join a State Park Interpreter on a 2 hour leisurely walk to the observation deck on the North Pond Trail, with a few stops along the way for some opportunities to reflect, write, or draw. This walk is 1.5 miles out and back requires walking on sandy beach. Dress in layers, wear walking shoes, and bring water and sun protection. You may also want to bring binoculars, a camera, or a sketchbook/notebook. Dogs are not permitted. Participation is free, and there is no fee to park. Please plan to meet promptly at 10 AM at the Middle Pescadero Beach Parking Lot. Rain cancels the hike.For more information, questions, or concerns, please contact (669) 758-1819 or email [email protected].

On this 2.5 mile family friendly walk, we’ll explore the plants, animals, and geology of our coastal bluffs. Bring water, hat, closed toe shoes, layered clothing, and binoculars if available. Sign up here!Meet next to park map in Wilder Ranch main parking lot. Rain cancels. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 426-0505.

Join Interpreter Erin on a 2025 First Day Hike!What to Expect: This moderately difficult tostrenuous hike with an 800-foot elevation gain will take you up the Dool Trail,along the Middle Ridge fire road, down the Meteor Trail, and back on the lowerportion of the Skyline to the Sea Trail next to Opal Creek. Length of Hike: 5.5 mile, 3 hoursPreparation: Dress in layers, including raingear if necessary, and bring a hat for sun protection. Sturdy hiking shoes orboots recommended. Bring water, two liters recommended, and snacks and/orlunch. There is NO potable water in Big Basin. Water may be purchased for $3per 16-ounce aluminum can. Special Instructions: The hike will happen rainor shine, but the route may be altered depending on weather conditions. Highwinds will cancel. Parking: Parking is $10 per car payable by debit, credit, or Apple Pay only. No cash accepted. Parking may be reserved ahead of time for $8. Details: https://www.cognitoforms.com/FSCSP1/bigbasinparkingAges: Recommended for ages 10 and up. Childrenmust be accompanied by an adult. Pets allowed? No 

Coast Redwoods offers a 100% satisfaction guaran-treed! This January 1st, 2025 at 12:00 pm, we are taking folks on a guided walk through the Redwood Grove to talk about coast redwoods and to experience the forest together. On this 1-mile stroll, we will be chatting about life histories, ecology, etc. and sharing a wonderful adventure among these giants.  Let's plan to meet in front of the Visitor Center, we hope you can join us!