The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Immerse yourself in the towering redwoods of Big Basin Redwoods State Park on the Skyline to the Sea and Meteor Trail Loop. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.4 km) hike, with 791 feet (241 metres) of elevation gain, offers a rich forest experience, including a good workout on the Meteor Trail's steep ascent and the chance to glimpse the Pacific from Ocean View Summit. Expect varied terrain, from shaded forest paths to some rocky sections, all within a lush, resilient environment.

Planning your visit means checking Big Basin Redwoods State Park's current status, as sections of the park are still recovering from past fires. Parking is available at the trailhead, but arriving early is a smart move, especially on weekends, to beat the crowds and ensure a spot. This loop is a great alternative if you want to experience the park's iconic redwoods without the longer commitment or potential closures of the traditional Skyline to the Sea Trail.

This loop provides a poignant look at nature's resilience, showcasing new green growth beneath fire-scarred trunks, a testament to the redwood forest's recovery. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter redwood experience away from the park's more crowded waterfall loops, offering a unique blend of ancient forest grandeur and a glimpse into the ongoing ecological restoration of California's oldest state park.

The Dool Trail Loop offers a unique perspective on the resilience of redwood forests, blending majestic old-growth groves with areas still recovering from the 2020 CZU Lightning Fire. You'll encounter a diverse landscape, from dense, shaded redwood lowlands to sun-exposed uplands where the canopy is gone, revealing blackened trees and new growth. Keep an eye out for the distinctive "Creeping Forest" with its leaning trees and the fascinating "fire cave" redwoods, which continue to thrive despite being hollowed out by fire.

This easy hiking route covers 2.7 miles (4.3 km) with 467 feet (142 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete. It's a popular choice for those seeking an accessible trail that showcases ecological recovery. As it's located within Big Basin Redwoods State Park, it's wise to check park conditions and arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak times.

The Dool Trail was notably one of the first singletrack trails to reopen after the devastating CZU Lightning Fire, making it a significant route for witnessing nature's comeback. Beyond the redwoods, you'll spot diverse plant life like huckleberry bushes, sword ferns, and Douglas firs. The trail provides a compelling narrative of natural history and adaptation, making it more than just a walk in the woods.

The Skyline To The Sea Trail offers a remarkable journey from the Santa Cruz Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, immersing you in continuously evolving landscapes. You'll trek through gnarled oak forests and chaparral, eventually entering lush, dark canyons filled with magnificent coastal redwoods, particularly within Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The path winds alongside serene creeks, culminating in the dramatic sight and sound of the ocean at Waddell Beach, a truly rewarding finish to this diverse route.

This difficult point-to-point hike covers 34.5 miles (55.5 km) with 4924 feet (1501 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring 16 hours and 16 minutes to complete. You'll need to arrange transportation from Waddell Beach, as there's no public shuttle. Backcountry camp reservations are essential and should be secured well in advance, especially if you're planning a multi-day trip. Always check the current status of the trail, particularly after the CZU fires, before heading out.

Connecting Castle Rock State Park and California's oldest state park, Big Basin Redwoods State Park, this trail is one of the most popular backpacking destinations in the San Francisco Bay Area. While generally descending towards the sea, expect significant elevation changes and varied terrain, including rocky sections and exposed roots. The final day, traversing through old-growth wilderness, is often highlighted as the most scenic portion of the entire hike.

The Sequoia Trail and Sempervirens Falls Loop offers a quintessential redwood forest hike, guiding you through groves of ancient, towering trees and past a picturesque 10-to-20-foot waterfall. This moderate 4.6-mile (7.3 km) route involves about 451 feet (137 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 2 hours and 3 minutes, making it a perfect option for experiencing the grandeur of Big Basin Redwoods State Park without an all-day commitment. You'll find yourself surrounded by diverse flora, from Douglas firs to lush ferns, creating a truly immersive natural experience.

When planning your visit to this popular trail, be aware that while much of the path is gentle, you'll encounter "Slippery Rock," an exposed sandstone slab that requires careful footing, especially when wet. Muddy conditions can also be present after rain, and some sections are narrow with steep drop-offs. It's a good idea to carry a map, as trail signs can occasionally be confusing, ensuring you stay on track through this historic landscape.

This trail holds significant historical and natural importance, being one of the oldest routes in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California's first state park established in 1902. Along the way, you might spot the historic Maddock Cabin from 1883, and "Slippery Rock" itself bears cultural significance with holes left by Ohlone tribes grinding acorns. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like dark-eyed juncos and unique plant life such as five-finger ferns, adding to the rich tapestry of this remarkable hike.