The best walks and hikes around Felton

Felton offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 30 routes available. These trails cater to different preferences, from easy strolls to more challenging treks through diverse landscapes.

Hiking around Felton is characterized by its diverse terrain, primarily featuring towering redwood forests, including both old-growth and second-growth stands. You'll also find trails along river/riparian zones, through fern-lined canyons, and even unique sandhills. Some routes offer rewarding views of the Santa Cruz coastline from higher elevations.

Yes, Felton provides hiking options for all abilities. There are 13 easy routes perfect for a relaxed walk, 16 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 1 difficult route for experienced hikers looking for a strenuous adventure.

The best place to experience the ancient old-growth redwoods is within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The Cathedral Grove and Bear Mountain loop is an easy option to explore these giants, including the unique 'fairy ring' formations of the Cathedral Redwoods. You can also see the famous Fremont Tree, large enough to step inside, on the accessible Redwood Grove Loop Trail within the park.

Yes, the Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is known for its scenic beauty, including small waterfalls. Trails in this unit, such as the Fall Creek and Ridge Trail loop, follow along the north fork of Fall Creek, offering views of these natural features amidst dense redwood stands.

Beyond the redwoods, you can explore several unique landmarks. The historic Felton Covered Bridge, built in 1892, is a picturesque spot over the San Lorenzo River. Within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, you can visit the Fremont Tree and the Cathedral Redwoods. The Fall Creek Unit also holds remnants of the area's lime-processing history, including old lime kiln ruins from the 1870s.

Many of the trails around Felton are designed as loops, offering varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the River Trails loop, the Cathedral Redwoods loop via River Trail, and the Cable Car Beach & Redwood Grove loop.

The hiking trails in Felton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the majestic redwood forests, the peaceful atmosphere, and the well-maintained paths that offer a true escape into nature.

While Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is the centerpiece for hiking in Felton, offering extensive trails through old-growth and second-growth redwoods, other areas also provide opportunities. The Fall Creek Unit, a few miles north of the main park, offers a more rugged experience. Additionally, Felton Discovery County Park features a nature trail and pedestrian bridges over Bull Creek.

Felton's redwood forests offer a pleasant hiking experience year-round. The towering trees provide shade in warmer months, and the forest floor remains lush even during drier periods. Winter and spring can bring more vibrant greenery and flowing creeks, while fall offers crisp air and beautiful light filtering through the canopy.

Absolutely. The Redwood Grove Loop Trail within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is an accessible 0.8 to 0.9-mile flat loop, perfect for families and all ages to experience the ancient redwoods up close. Another easy option is the Cathedral Grove and Bear Mountain loop, which is just over 3 km long.

For detailed information about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, including facilities, current conditions, and any alerts, you can visit the official California State Parks website: parks.ca.gov/henrycowell/.