Calendar of Events
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24 events,
Big Basin Redwoods First Day Hike
Big Basin Redwoods First Day Hike
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
The Forest of Nisene Marks First Day Hike
The Forest of Nisene Marks First Day Hike
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.
Half Moon Bay – Guided Walk at Gray Whale Cove
Half Moon Bay – Guided Walk at Gray Whale Cove
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!
1 event,
Natural Bridges State Beach: Monarch Butterfly Self Guided Tours
Natural Bridges State Beach: Monarch Butterfly Self Guided Tours
Stroll through the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve and be on the lookout for every splash of orange on the walk! The monarch migration is variable, please check the website or contact the park at (831)423-0871 to find out the current population. To arrange a tour for groups of 10 or more, please visit www.thatsmypark.org. Events made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks. Parking near the trail accessible entrance is $10.
3 events,
Natural Bridges State Beach: Monarch Butterfly Self Guided Tours
Natural Bridges State Beach: Monarch Butterfly Self Guided Tours
Stroll through the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve and be on the lookout for every splash of orange on the walk! The monarch migration is variable, please check the website or contact the park at (831)423-0871 to find out the current population. To arrange a tour for groups of 10 or more, please visit www.thatsmypark.org. Events made possible by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks and California State Parks. Parking near the trail accessible entrance is $10.
Watsonville: Farmers Market
Watsonville: Farmers Market
The Watsonville Farmers Market is every Friday afternoon from 2-7 all year round at the City Plaza in Downtown Watsonville. Don’t miss out on the wonderful locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers. Bring your appetite as there are tons of delicious prepared foods to try.
First Friday Santa Cruz
First Friday Santa Cruz
On the first Friday evening of every month, Santa Cruz galleries, shops, and cultural venues open their doors to showcase the works of Santa Cruz County artists. With a block party-like vibe, the multi-venue event provides an opportunity to discover local creative talent in a fun and festive setting. Many venues entice attendees with yummy cheese-and-wine-filled spreads, while others have food trucks joining in on the fun.
16 events,
Cabrillo College: Aptos Farmers Market
Cabrillo College: Aptos Farmers Market
Market customers appreciate the bountiful selection of top quality produce and specialty foods as well as the opportunity to connect with the farmers and vendors who produce it. Ninety vendors, of which most are certified organic or use sustainable farming methods, offer pastured grass fed meats and poultry, sustainable fish, oysters, handcrafted cheeses, locally produced olive oil, fresh pasta and gourmet sauces, organic juices, handmade sauerkraut, Corralitos smoked sausages and bacon, artisan breads and baked goods, organic honey, mushrooms, sprouts and microgreens, farm fresh eggs, flowers, potted plants, seedlings, herbs, and an unsurpassed selection of certified California grown fruits, vegetables and nuts.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Birdwatching
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Birdwatching
We are offering a bird watching program on January 4th at 9:00am. Join us to learn all about life histories, behaviors, field markings, etc. On this 1-mile walk, we will make specific observations about characteristics that will certainly help us quack the case for many bird identifications! Let's plan to meet in the main parking lot of the park. Hope to see you there! Make sure to bring binoculars and weather appropriate attire. RSVP for this event at this page.
Westside Santa Cruz: Farmers Market
Westside Santa Cruz: Farmers Market
The Westside Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday, year round at the corner of Hwy 1 and Western Drive. Here we serve the communities of the west end of Santa Cruz including Bonny Doon, the North Coast and the University of California, Santa Cruz campus. Sitting on the northern edge of Santa Cruz’s greenbelt this market is a great launching location for a day outdoors at Natural Bridges beach, Wilder Ranch or any adventure spot up the coast. It is also just a hop, skip and a jump, or bike ride, from Downtown. A community hub for over 15 years, the Westside Market showcases a great selection of 100% certified organic produce, artisan foods, beer, body products, tinctures, sustainable seafood, pasture raised meats, flowers and eggs along with cook-to-order cultural meals, live local music and a full espresso bar operated by Syllable. With an abundance of free parking and accessibility on its side, this market makes for a convenient and celebratory Saturday morning outing any time of the year.