The best running trails in Santa Cruz County
4.6
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3,075
runners
176
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Jogging routes in Santa Cruz County offer a diverse range of natural landscapes, blending coastal beauty with majestic redwood forests. The region is characterized by its extensive beachfront paths, serene river trails, and varied parklands. Runners can explore routes along the Pacific Ocean, through shaded redwood groves, and across mixed evergreen forests, providing options for different preferences and fitness levels. The terrain includes flat multi-use paths, rolling hills, and some routes with significant elevation gain.
Best jogging routes in Santa Cruz County
- The most popular jogging route is Achistaca Trail to Turtle Rock, a 4.6 miles (7.4 km) trail that takes about 50 minutes to complete. This route features moderate elevation gain through varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Sempervirens Falls Loop via Sequoia Trail, a moderate 4.6 miles (7.3 km) path. This trail winds through tranquil redwood forests, offering a peaceful running experience.
- Local runners also love the Natural Bridges State Beach β Santa Cruz Lighthouse loop from Santa Cruz, a 7.1 miles (11.4 km) trail leading through coastal paths with ocean views, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Jogging in Santa Cruz County is defined by its stunning coastline, ancient redwood forests, and diverse parklands. The extensive network of running routes offers options for various ability levels, from easy beachfront jogs to more challenging forest trails.
- The routes in Santa Cruz County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 50 reviews. More than 3000 runners have used komoot to explore Santa Cruz County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
8
runners
7.35km
00:53
150m
150m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
6.18km
00:53
250m
250m
Hard run. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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7.34km
00:55
130m
130m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
runners
5.28km
00:43
210m
210m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
28.0km
03:03
490m
490m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.71km
00:58
400m
400m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(9)
330
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
166
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
158
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
111
runners
15.9km
01:41
100m
100m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Santa Cruz County
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Tips from the Community
The Santa Cruz Boardwalk is an icon of the California Coast. Tourists have been flocking here since it first opened in 1907, and it is the state's oldest surviving amusement park.
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Stunning Natural Bridge Beach is known for its natural arches made of fine clay or mud rock, carved by time, water, and wind. The beach is also known for being home to a colony of monarch butterflies, with over 150,000 coming to live here for the winter. If you're lucky, you might even spot whales!
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This is a great place to stop and have a look over the water. The cliffs and ocean area treat on their own, but the surfers and sailboats add an extra touch to the scene.
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A small but cozy beach along East Cliff Drive, featuring a lake and a park. Thereβs bike parking nearby and benches overlooking the water, making it a great spot to pause during your ride, enjoy the ocean views, or even take a refreshing dip. The beach is especially nice during low tide.
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Turtle Rock is the highest and most prominent mountain in the area. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, especially stunning at sunset. Be cautious, as the trail is popular and often busy with hikers.
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Twin Lakes State Beach features a mile of sandy shoreline for swimming and picnicking, situated near the Santa Cruz Harbor. Adjacent Schwan Lake Park offers picturesque walking trails through oak preserves and coastal grasslands, ideal for dog-walking and bird watching. The day-use area operates from sunrise to sunset.
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In the summer of 1885, three young Hawaiian princes ignited the California coast's surfing phenomenon by introducing their boards and the ancient Hawaiian sport to the American mainland. A commemorative plaque near the former lighthouse, now home to a quaint surfing museum, immortalizes this significant moment in history.
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The surfer statue along West Cliff Drive is a landmark of Santa Cruz. The statue stands at 18 feet tall and was inspired by members of the 1936 Santa Cruz Surfing Club.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Santa Cruz County?
Santa Cruz County offers a wide variety of running routes, with over 170 options available on komoot. These routes cater to all preferences, from easy coastal paths to more challenging forest trails.
Are there running routes for all skill levels in Santa Cruz County?
Yes, Santa Cruz County provides a diverse range of running experiences. You'll find options for all abilities, including 15 easy routes, over 100 moderate trails, and nearly 50 more difficult runs for experienced runners seeking a challenge.
Where can I find running routes with ocean views in Santa Cruz County?
For breathtaking ocean views, consider routes along the coast. The Natural Bridges State Beach β Santa Cruz Lighthouse loop from Santa Cruz offers stunning coastal scenery. Other popular spots mentioned in the region include West Cliff Drive, Seacliff State Beach, and the trails at Wilder Ranch State Park, which feature ocean bluffs.
Are there shaded running trails in Santa Cruz County, especially for summer?
Absolutely. Many trails wind through the magnificent redwood forests, providing excellent shade. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park are prime locations for shaded runs. The Sempervirens Falls Loop via Sequoia Trail is a great example of a route through tranquil redwood forests.
What do other runners enjoy most about the trails in Santa Cruz County?
The running routes in Santa Cruz County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Runners frequently praise the stunning blend of coastal beauty and serene redwood forests, the variety of terrain, and the well-maintained paths that offer diverse experiences for all levels.
Are there any long-distance running trails in Santa Cruz County?
Yes, for those looking for longer runs, Santa Cruz County has several options. The Highland Way route, for instance, spans over 28 kilometers (17 miles) with significant elevation gain, offering a challenging long-distance experience.
Can I find loop running trails in Santa Cruz County?
Many of the running routes in Santa Cruz County are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. Examples include the Sempervirens Falls Loop via Sequoia Trail and the Summit Rock Loop Trail, both providing scenic circular paths.
Are there any running routes suitable for beginners or easy jogs?
Beginners and those seeking an easy jog will find plenty of suitable options. Coastal paths like West Cliff Drive are flat and multi-use, perfect for a refreshing seaside run. Schwan Lake Park also offers picturesque, hard-packed trails ideal for a gentle jog. You can find 15 easy routes listed on komoot for the region.
What kind of natural attractions can I see along the running routes?
Santa Cruz County's running routes are rich with natural beauty. You can encounter stunning natural rock arches and tide pools near Moran Lake Beach and Park, or enjoy the tranquility of Schwan Lake. Many trails also lead through majestic redwood forests and offer views of the Pacific Ocean.
Are there running trails in Santa Cruz County that are less crowded?
While popular spots can get busy, areas like the Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park are noted for their peacefulness. Exploring trails in The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park or some of the less-trafficked sections of Wilder Ranch State Park can also offer a more solitary running experience amidst nature.
Are there any challenging running routes with significant elevation gain?
Yes, for runners looking for a challenge, Santa Cruz County offers routes with significant elevation. The Saratoga Gap and Ridge Trail Loop, for example, features over 250 meters (800 feet) of elevation gain. Pogonip also provides multi-use trails with some sections offering notable climbs and rewarding views.
Most popular routes in Santa Cruz County
Most popular attractions in Santa Cruz County
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