The best walks and hikes around Rio Del Mar
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Hiking around Rio Del Mar offers diverse landscapes, blending coastal beauty with majestic redwood forests. The region is characterized by sandy beaches, scenic coastal bluffs, and dense second-growth and old-growth redwood forests, particularly within The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. Aptos Creek winds through many trails, and geological features like fault lines are present. The terrain ranges from flat coastal paths to more varied forest trails with moderate elevation changes.
Best hiking trails around Rio Del Mar
- The most popular hiking route is Seacliff State Beach Pier โ Seacliff State Beach Shipwreck loop from Seacliff State Beach, a 2.4 miles (3.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 2 minutes to complete. This easy route offers scenic coastal walking along the beach, passing the iconic SS Palo Alto.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tillman Grove โ Bench by Aptos Creek loop from Seacliff State Beach, an easy 4.2 miles (6.7 km) path. This trail leads through redwood groves and along Aptos Creek.
- Local hikers also love the Old Growth Loop Trail, a 0.8 miles (1.3 km) trail leading through towering redwoods, often completed in about 22 minutes.
- Hiking around Rio Del Mar is defined by redwood forests, coastal bluffs, and creek-side paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy beach strolls to moderate forest treks.
- The routes in Rio Del Mar are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Rio Del Mar's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
2.96km
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The Aptos Rancho Trail offers a serene journey through the heart of The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, winding alongside Aptos Creek beneath a thick, shady redwood canopy. This easy route, spanning 1.8 miles (3.0 km) with a gentle 165 feet (50 metres) of elevation gain, immerses you in a lush landscape of redwoods, ferns, and picturesque canyon walls. Expect a tranquil flow of water, potential creek crossings, and a mix of shaded and open, sunny areas, making it a refreshing escape that takes roughly 48 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit means heading to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, where a day-use fee applies. This popular trail, especially on weekends, is both family-friendly and dog-friendly (leashed dogs only), so be prepared to share the path with others. Arriving earlier in the day or choosing a weekday can offer a more peaceful experience on this accessible route.
Historically part of the Aptos Rancho land grant, this trail is one of the few legal singletrack options in the park and serves as a valuable connector to a wider network of trails. Keep an eye out for fossilized seashells in the creekbeds, a fascinating reminder of the area's ancient past as an inland sea. It's a great choice for those looking for beginner hiking in a beautiful, historically rich setting.
1.92km
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Enjoy an easy 1.2-mile hike on the Seascape Park Bluffs Trail, offering gorgeous coastal bluff views over Monterey Bay.
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1.29km
00:23
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The Old Growth Loop Trail offers a delightful, easy hike through a unique section of ancient redwood forest in Nisene Marks State Park. You'll wander among trees over a thousand years old, traverse a charming Wooden Bridge Over Aptos Creek, and discover the intriguing "Twisted Grove" where redwoods grow in unusual, gnarled shapes. This 0.8-mile (1.3 km) loop gains just 137 feet (42 metres) and takes about 22 minutes, making it an ideal, family-friendly option for a quick immersion into nature.
When planning your visit, be aware that the Wooden Bridge Over Aptos Creek is seasonal, typically installed from May through October. Outside these months, crossing the creek can be challenging or unsafe, especially after rain. Dogs are welcome on a leash, and the trail's accessibility makes it a great choice for a relaxed outing any time of day during the bridge's operational season.
While some might compare it to other, more expansive redwood groves, the Old Growth Loop Trail holds its own with distinct features like the "Twisted Grove," possibly shaped by seismic activity. It provides a serene atmosphere along Aptos Creek, showcasing a rich riparian plant community with big-leaf maples and ferns alongside the towering redwoods. It's a fantastic way to experience the majesty of old-growth trees without committing to a longer, more strenuous adventure.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Rio Del Mar
Tips from the Community
This woodland park, full of second- and third-growth redwood forest, is a monument to how the land can heal itself after heavy logging activity โ if allowed. It has about 30 miles of trails for hiking, running and biking, including several favorite picnic spots along Aptos Creek.
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Seacliff State Beach is a long stretch of sand backed by bluffs and is best known for its concrete freighter, the SS Palo Alto, lying in the water just off the beach.
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A peaceful escape surrounded by nature, the towering redwood forest of Nisene Marks' Tillman Grove offers mountain bikers a scenic ride under its lush canopy. Coasting along soft dirt trails, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife peeking out from the ferns and your ears open to birds calling overhead.
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The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park provides a picturesque backdrop for (trail) running enthusiasts. The park offers a network of diverse trails, weaving through redwood groves and along the Aptos Creek.
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A small but sturdy bridge made out of wooden planks crosses Aptos Creek and links the starting point of Old Growth Loop Trail with its main loop.
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A place that automatically reminds you of the three ??? and Rocky Beach with the restaurant Seahorse - Die Drei ??? and the pearl birds. Nice beach with an old wreck and seafood restaurant in the main town. Unfortunately difficult to get away with public transport, on weekends the bus only ran twice a day.
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A beautiful wooden pier with a shipwreck at the end. From New Brighton State Beach (with a great campsite) you can walk along the beach along exclusive villas to the pier - but you should inquire about the tides beforehand. Very nice walk!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Rio Del Mar?
Rio Del Mar offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 50 trails to explore. These range from easy coastal strolls to more challenging forest treks, ensuring options for all skill levels.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking options in Rio Del Mar?
Yes, Rio Del Mar has many easy trails suitable for families. For a gentle coastal walk, consider the Seacliff State Beach Pier loop from Rio Del Mar, which offers views of Monterey Bay and the historic concrete ship. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park also features accessible trails like the Promenade Trail at Seacliff State Beach, and many paths along Aptos Creek are relatively flat and easy. For more information on accessible features, you can visit the California State Parks website: Accessible Features.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Rio Del Mar?
Many areas around Rio Del Mar are dog-friendly, but regulations vary. In The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, dogs are generally permitted on fire roads and paved trails but often not on single-track trails. Coastal areas like Seacliff State Beach typically allow dogs on leash in designated areas. Always check specific park rules before heading out to ensure a pleasant experience for you and your pet.
Are there any trails that lead to waterfalls in the Rio Del Mar area?
Yes, The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is home to Maple Falls, a beautiful 30-foot waterfall. Reaching it involves a more challenging 10-mile roundtrip hike, which is particularly rewarding after rainfall when the falls are at their most spectacular. The trail winds through a lush maple canopy, offering a serene forest experience.
What kind of natural landmarks or unique features can I expect to see while hiking?
Rio Del Mar's hiking trails offer a blend of coastal and redwood forest features. In The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, you can encounter towering redwoods, including 'The Advocate,' one of the largest in the park, and the unique 'Twisted Grove.' The park also has geological significance, with trails leading to the epicenter of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. Along the coast, you'll find the iconic remains of the SS Palo Alto concrete ship at Seacliff State Beach, and coastal bluffs offering views of Monterey Bay.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Rio Del Mar?
Yes, many trails in the area are designed as loops. For a pleasant forest experience, consider the Tillman Grove โ Bench by Aptos Creek loop from Seacliff State Beach, which takes you through redwood groves and along Aptos Creek. Another option is the Aptos Village โ Wooden Bridge Over Aptos Creek loop from Seacliff State Beach, offering a mix of village and forest scenery.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Rio Del Mar?
Rio Del Mar offers pleasant hiking conditions year-round due to its mild coastal climate. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while fall provides comfortable temperatures and often clear skies. Winter can be a great time to see waterfalls at their fullest after rainfall. Summer is popular for coastal walks, but the redwood forests offer cooler, shaded relief from the sun.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Rio Del Mar?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique combination of ancient redwood forests and stunning coastal views. The diversity of trails, from easy beach strolls to more challenging forest climbs, is also frequently highlighted as a major draw.
Are there any challenging hikes in the Rio Del Mar area?
While many trails are easy to moderate, more challenging options exist, particularly within The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. The hike to Maple Falls, for instance, is a longer, more strenuous trek. Additionally, routes like the Wooden Bridge Over Aptos Creek โ Aptos Creek Trail loop from Seacliff State Beach offer moderate difficulty with significant elevation changes over a longer distance, providing a good workout.
Is there public transport available to reach trailheads near Rio Del Mar?
Public transportation options to specific trailheads can be limited. While local bus services operate in the wider Santa Cruz County area, direct routes to many of the more secluded trailheads, especially within The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, may not be readily available. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information if you plan to rely on public transport.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Rio Del Mar?
Parking is generally available at popular access points. For coastal trails, parking lots are located at Seacliff State Beach and Seascape County Park. For trails within The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, there are designated parking areas at various entrances. Some state parks may require a day-use fee for parking, so it's good to be prepared.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
The diverse ecosystems of Rio Del Mar support a variety of wildlife. In the redwood forests, you might spot deer, various bird species, and unique flora like the fetid adder's tongue. Along the coast and from bluff trails at Seascape County Park, keep an eye out for marine mammals such as seals, sea lions, and even whales or otters in Monterey Bay.
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