The best walks and hikes around Pasatiempo
4.6
(216)
3,397
hikers
209
hikes
Hiking around Pasatiempo explores the rolling hills and canyons characteristic of Santa Cruz County, California. The region's terrain provides routes through redwood forests and open spaces, with many trails offering views of Monterey Bay. The network of paths includes a mix of moderate climbs and gentler walks, suitable for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Pasatiempo
- The most popular hiking route is Emma McCrary and U-Con Trail, a 5.6 miles (9.1 km) trail that takes around 2 hoursβ¦
Last updated: June 25, 2026
9
hikers
5.97km
01:46
150m
120m
Hike a moderate 3.7-mile loop in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, featuring diverse terrain, redwoods, and panoramic views of Monterey Bay.
3
hikers
4.90km
01:26
150m
120m
This easy 3.0-mile hiking loop in Pogonip Open Space offers diverse scenery, including open meadows and historical landmarks.
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6
hikers
9.06km
02:35
220m
220m
Hike the moderate 5.6-mile Emma McCrary and U-Con Trail in Santa Cruz, winding through redwood groves and diverse woodlands.
4.5
(4)
82
hikers
11.5km
03:27
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a coastal redwood, not a Sequoia redwood which is a different species found inland.
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This beautiful park in Santa Cruz attracts everyone with its different landscapes and views. If you're nearby, it's worth visiting and riding its trails.
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Following a meandering path through the redwood forest, you'll arrive at this picturesque viewpoint. Here, a conveniently placed bench offers an ideal spot to pause, relax, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery.
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This spacious deck provides awe-inspiring views of the woods and the Pacific Ocean. You'll discover binoculars available here to enhance your views. This spot offers a fantastic opportunity to pause and savor the surroundings.
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This is just about the best bench stop you could have. There are expansive views and stunning forest vistas to be had from here out over the reserve all the way to the coast towards Santa Cruz.
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Winding through lush greenery, this trail provides ample shade. With occasional narrow passages and rocky sections, it adds an intriguing touch to the rideβa journey through nature's captivating terrain.
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This spacious deck provides awe-inspiring views of the woods and the Pacific Ocean. You'll discover binoculars available here to enhance your views. This spot offers a fantastic opportunity to pause and savor the surroundings.
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This trail winds through lush vegetation, offering plenty of shade. It can be narrow in parts and features some rocky sections, which make for an interesting hike. Since the trail is shared with mountain bikers, it's essential to stay alert.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails near Pasatiempo?
Dog policies vary by park. Pogonip Open Space Preserve generally allows dogs on-leash on most trails. In contrast, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Wilder Ranch State Park have more restrictions, typically prohibiting dogs on the main hiking trails to protect wildlife and the ecosystem. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go. For a reliably dog-friendly walk, Lighthouse Field State Beach is a popular spot for walking with dogs on leash.
Where can I find hikes with ocean views?
For stunning coastal scenery, Wilder Ranch State Park is an excellent choice, with trails that run along the coastal bluffs. Another great option is the Top of the World Viewpoint loop from Eastside, which leads to a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas over the area towards Monterey Bay.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, the region offers many options suitable for families. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park features a gentle, accessible loop trail through an old-growth redwood grove that is perfect for all ages. Pogonip Open Space Preserve also has several flatter, wider trails that are great for a relaxed family walk in nature.
What are some of the most popular parks for hiking near Pasatiempo?
The area is home to several highly-regarded parks for hiking.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is an exceptionally popular favorite, famous for its majestic old-growth redwood groves. Wilder Ranch State Park is another top choice, offering dramatic coastal trails. For a mix of woodland and open meadows closer to town, Pogonip Open Space Preserve is a go-to for local hikers.
How many hiking trails are there around Pasatiempo?
You can explore over 150 different hiking routes around Pasatiempo. The network includes 88 easy trails perfect for casual walks, 59 moderate routes for a good workout, and 7 difficult trails for those seeking a serious challenge.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this region?
The trails around Pasatiempo are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the incredible diversity, from the towering trees in the redwood forests to the stunning ocean views along the coast.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous outing, the terrain offers several challenging options. The Cable Car Beach β Cathedral Redwoods loop from Paradise Park is a good example, covering over 6.5 miles with nearly 950 feet of elevation gain through varied terrain.
What is the terrain like on the trails?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find everything from gentle, flat paths through redwood groves to steep climbs up rolling hills and into canyons. Many trails in places like Pogonip and Wilder Ranch are a mix of singletrack paths and wider fire roads, often with uneven, rooted, or rocky sections.
Where can I see redwood trees?
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is the premier destination for experiencing majestic old-growth redwood forests. The park has well-maintained trails that loop through groves of these giant trees. You can also find beautiful redwood sections on trails within The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park.
Is there a fee for parking at the state parks?
Yes, state parks like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Wilder Ranch State Park typically charge a day-use vehicle entrance fee. Fees support park maintenance and operations. It's best to bring cash, though some locations may accept cards. City-managed areas like Pogonip Open Space Preserve often have free parking, but spots can fill up quickly.
What is the best time of year to hike around Pasatiempo?
Hiking is possible year-round thanks to the temperate climate. Spring (March-May) is fantastic for wildflowers and pleasant temperatures. Summer (June-August) is popular but can have coastal fog in the mornings. Fall (September-November) often brings the clearest skies and warm, sunny days. Winter (December-February) is cooler and wetter, but the green landscapes and flowing creeks are beautiful.
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