Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Hikes
United States
California
Santa Cruz County

Pace Family Wilderness Park

Easy hikes and walks in Pace Family Wilderness Park

4.5

(99)

1,298

hikers

58

hikes

Easy hiking trails in Pace Family Wilderness Park traverse a diverse landscape characterized by majestic redwood forests, lush meadows, and rolling oak woodlands. The park is situated within the unique Santa Cruz sandhill ecology, an ecosystem supporting rare plant and animal species. Hikers can experience creek-side scenery and various viewpoints throughout the area. The terrain offers a mix of gentle paths and some moderate inclines, providing varied experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best easy hiking trails in Pace Family Wilderness Park

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Italian Trail and Lower Chaparral Trail Loop, a 0.7 miles (1.2 km) trail that takes 20 minutes to complete. This route offers a gentle walk through varied park landscapes.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Cable Car Beach – River Trail loop from Felton, an easy 4.2 miles (6.7 km) path. This path follows creek-side scenery and connects to other park systems.
  • Local hikers also love the Redwood Grove Loop Trail, a 1.4 miles (2.3 km) trail leading through impressive redwood forests, often completed in about 35 minutes.
  • Hiking in Pace Family Wilderness Park is defined by redwood forests, lush meadows, and unique sandhill ecology. The network offers options for various ability levels, including many easy hiking trails.
  • The routes in Pace Family Wilderness Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. More than 1500 hikers have used komoot to explore Pace Family Wilderness Park's varied terrain.

Last updated: June 30, 2026

#1.

Italian Trail and Lower Chaparral Trail Loop

1.17km

00:20

40m

0m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Navigate with device

Send to Phone

Save

Easy

5.0

(3)

96

hikers

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
guide_signup
Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app
With aΒ free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

Sign up for free

3

hikers

3.09km

00:54

80m

80m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
Sign up for free to see 54 more hikes in Pace Family Wilderness Park.

Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Tips from the Community

Tom Ginsburg
November 20, 2025, Fremont Tree

This is a coastal redwood, not a Sequoia redwood which is a different species found inland.

0

0

Andrus
June 19, 2025, Cathedral Grove

Today, this area is a protected stand of Redwoods, but as you walk along the trail you are bound to come across the remnants of a once booming industry based on the cutting and selling of these magnificent trees.

0

0

One tree that is divided into many branches, making it looks similar to a nest. Every tree in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park has its beauty and unique nature. Enjoy the easy trails to observe these powerful giants around you.

0

0

maniboyflex
January 21, 2025, Ox Trail

Ox Road is a short 1.6-mile dirt road that ends at the Santa Cruz, Big Trees & Pacific Railway. The road feels like a wide trail, winding through the forest and passing by the Garden of Eden swimming hole along the San Lorenzo River. The trail is easy, with some elevation changes. Dogs, fires, and alcohol are not allowed. Parking is available off Highway 9.

0

0

roukir
November 23, 2023, Parkplatz

Parking costs a flat rate of $10. From here, hikes of varying lengths through the park are possible. The trees are very impressive!

Translated by Googleβ€’

0

0

In the 1800s, steam locomotives were used to transport giant redwood logs out of the mountains. Along the trail, you can still see remnants of this historical activity, as well as the majestic giant redwoods that continue to thrive in the area.

0

0

One of the few restrooms along the trail.

0

0

Looks like the tree is growing a nest as perimeter

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in Pace Family Wilderness Park?

Pace Family Wilderness Park offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with over 25 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the park features around 60 hiking routes catering to various skill levels.

What kind of scenery can I expect on easy hikes in Pace Family Wilderness Park?

Easy hikes in Pace Family Wilderness Park traverse diverse landscapes, including majestic redwood forests, lush meadows, and rolling oak woodlands. You'll also find creek-side scenery and various viewpoints offering picturesque vistas. The park is uniquely situated within the Santa Cruz sandhill ecology, which supports rare plant and animal species.

Are there any easy loop trails in Pace Family Wilderness Park?

Yes, Pace Family Wilderness Park features several easy loop trails. For a shorter option, consider the Italian Trail and Lower Chaparral Trail Loop. A slightly longer, yet still easy, loop is the Bear Mountain Loop, which offers a pleasant walk through the park's varied terrain.

Is Pace Family Wilderness Park suitable for family hikes with children?

Absolutely. The park's easy trails are ideal for families. Many paths are gentle and offer engaging natural surroundings. The Redwood Grove Loop Trail, for instance, is a short and captivating walk through impressive redwood forests, perfect for all ages.

What is the best time of year to visit Pace Family Wilderness Park for easy hiking?

Pace Family Wilderness Park enjoys mild temperatures and refreshing coastal breezes, making it comfortable for outdoor activities throughout the year. Spring and summer are particularly vibrant, with lush meadows and displays of wildflowers. However, the redwood forests offer a serene experience in any season.

Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?

While the guide focuses on the trails themselves, it's always best to check the specific park regulations regarding dogs before your visit. Some areas may have restrictions to protect the sensitive Santa Cruz sandhill ecology and endangered species within the park.

Are there any historical sites or ruins to see on easy trails?

While the easy trails listed in this guide primarily focus on natural beauty, the broader Pace Family Wilderness Park area and its connections to adjacent parks do feature historical elements. Some trails in the region offer glimpses of historical ruins, adding an element of discovery to your hike.

What kind of wildlife might I encounter on an easy hike?

Pace Family Wilderness Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, particularly due to its unique Santa Cruz sandhill ecology. Keep an eye out for various bird species, and if you're lucky, you might spot some of the rare plant and animal species that thrive in this sensitive habitat, such as the Mount Herman June Beetle or the Zayante band-winged grasshopper.

What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Pace Family Wilderness Park?

The easy trails in Pace Family Wilderness Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the tranquility of the redwood forests, the beauty of the meadows, and the overall accessibility of the paths, making it a favorite for a relaxing outdoor experience.

Are there any longer easy routes for a more extended walk?

Yes, if you're looking for a longer easy walk, the Cable Car Beach – River Trail loop from Felton is an excellent option. This 4.2-mile path follows creek-side scenery and connects to other park systems, providing a more extended, yet still easy, hiking experience.

Where can I find parking for easy trailheads in Pace Family Wilderness Park?

Specific parking availability can vary by trailhead. It's recommended to check the starting point details for your chosen route on komoot, as many popular trailheads will have designated parking areas. The park is generally accessible, but planning your parking in advance is always a good idea.

Does Pace Family Wilderness Park connect to other park systems for longer excursions?

Yes, Pace Family Wilderness Park's trail network connects to adjacent park systems, including Quail Hollow Ranch County Park and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. This offers expanded possibilities for those looking to combine easy trails with longer excursions into the wider regional landscape.

Most popular routes in Pace Family Wilderness Park

Family-friendly hikes in Pace Family Wilderness Park

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With aΒ free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

CorralitosBonny DoonSanta CruzWilder Ranch State ParkLong Ridge Open Space PreserveCastle Rock State ParkSoquel Demonstration State ForestDay ValleyCalifornia Coastal National MonumentDavenportSoquelLoch Lomond Recreation AreaCoast Dairies State ParkAptos Hills-Larkin ValleyScotts ValleyMoore Creek Upland Open Space PreservePasatiempoWatsonvilleCapitolaBen LomondEllicott Slough National Wildlife RefugeThe Forest Of Nisene Marks State ParkParadise ParkFeltonNeary Lagoon Wildlife RefugeLive OakHenry Cowell Redwoods State ParkScott Creek Beach And Bluffs County ParkLompicoBig Creek ForestsBrookdaleAmestiZayanteMount HermonPogonip Open Space PreserveGlenwood Open Space PreservePajaro DunesLa Selva BeachSan Lorenzo Valley Water DistrictFreedomPleasure PointSeacliffBig Basin Redwoods State ParkBoulder CreekAptosLodato Open Space PreserveTwin LakesRockview Drive County ParkWest Waddell Creek State WildernessInterlakenRio Del MarNatural Bridges State Park

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Lompico

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

Β© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy