If there are things, I love about Santa Cruz, California, it is its amazing beaches and the breathtaking views.
I experienced walking along the Boardwalk. Years ago, the boardwalk was created as a public bathhouse but now, this area is being used to host events, arcades, seafood restaurants, and rides.
However, it is not only the roller coaster rides and corn dogs that make this seaside destination a perfect spot.
While traveling along the coast which leads down to Santa Cruz, you’ll be able to get a great view of the mountains that are located on either side of the highway. There are some areas where these mountains seem to hug the road.
Are there redwoods in Santa Cruz California? Yes, you can find redwoods in Santa Cruz, California.
On your journey to the beach, it is quite normal to miss out on the sight of mountains or redwoods that reside in the area. Sikh a short trip from the beach, visitors can even get lost among the towering redwoods.
Are there redwoods in Santa Cruz California?
Santa Cruz California has redwoods. The Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Santa Cruz Mountains is one of the best places where you can see the 40-acre grove of towering old growth redwood trees.
Thanks to the stunning scenery and historical importance attached to this park, a great number of travellers from all over the world come to Santa Cruz Mountains
The towering trunks of California redwoods that exist in this park are some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world which date back to 240 million years ago.
Redwoods are known for their enormous red trunks and their towering branches. They also make an important and essential part of the ecosystem in our forest.
There are over 30 parks and places in California where you can see these incredible trees. Below is a list of the six top places where you can see redwoods in California:
Best places to see redwoods in California
In California, there are amazing forest groves that are a few hours away from each other. The Northern California redwoods are one of the well-respected tree species in California.
You can see some of these tree species around the Area while enjoying the view of some of the most popular coasts in America.
· Humboldt Redwoods State Park
With over 51,222 acres of redwood groves to see along the 31-mile section of Highway 101, this park is located in the third largest park in California and offers you a memorable experience especially if you are keen on seeing redwoods.
· Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Founded as a designated UNESCO heritage site, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State park is located a few miles south of the Oregon border.
It is one of the densest giant redwood forests in the states with 7% of the total old growth redwoods present in this forest.
This is definitely the place to be for anyone who prefers a forest with very old trees.
· Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Calaveras Big Trees State Park is located 100 miles southwest of Sacramento. At the park’s North Grove, you’ll find “Discovery Tree” which is an enormous redwood stump that collapsed in the 1850s.
Back then, it was said that five men had counted the rings of the trunk in 22 days. From their results, they believe that this tree had been 1,300 years old at the time.
Not only is this park easily accessible, it boasts several miles of stunning trails.
· Carbon Canyon Regional Park
In Southern California, you also get to see redwoods thanks to the Carbon Canyon Regional Park situated in Orange County. This Park is the largest in the southern part of California containing 10-acre grove of coastal redwoods.
In 1975, this grove was planted meaning that these trees are a few decades old and quite smaller when compared to redwoods in Northern California.
Over 200 coastal California redwoods can be found in the 2.5 mile Carbon Canyon Nature Trail.
· Santa Cruz Mountain
There are several remarkable experiences that the Santa Cruz Mountains offer visitors. If you have a California redwoods itinerary, you should definitely include Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
This park was established in 1902 and is the oldest park in California. Its 80 miles trail features a rich history with amazing waterfalls and stunning ocean views.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park boats of 40-acre grove of old growth redwood trees and the oldest ones are about 1,500 years old.
· Muir Woods National Monument
Founded in 1908, the Muir Woods National Monument was built thanks to a land donation by Congressman William Kent in order to preserve and protect the 150 year old redwoods from logging.
These well paved trails located just outside San Francisco in the park’s Cathedral Gribe are open to the public and remain a family friendly destination.
It is important to note, however, that parking and shuttle reservations are required. Since this area is a very popular destination, it is advised that you book in advance.
If you want to see these massive trees, you can visit Santa Cruz California.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old are redwoods in Santa Cruz?
According to records, it has been noted that some of the redwoods reach the age of 2,000 years. On average, mature trees of this species are of ages between 800-1500 years.
Where can you go to see old-growth redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains?
If you want to get a brilliant view of old growth redwoods, then you should definitely take a 45-minute drive from San Jose to the 145-acre Peters Creek Old Growth Forest.
This forest is a unique home to redwoods that date back to several years ago and with views that appeal to all the senses in every corner.
What is the best time of the year to visit the redwood forest?
Thanks to the mild coastal temperatures, Redwood National Park brags of decent weather which lasts all year long.
However, since the winter months have more frequent occurrences of rain, it is much better to hike amongst the redwoods from May to September.