The best walks and hikes around Felton

Embark on the Redwood Grove and Cowell Highlights Loop, a moderate hike that takes you through the majestic old-growth coast redwoods of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. This 4.8-mile (7.7 km) route involves a 629-foot (192 metres) elevation gain, typically completed in about 2 hours and 23 minutes. You will experience the tranquil, cool air of the redwood grove, where ferns and redwood sorrel carpet the forest floor, before reaching the Sandhills Observation Deck for expansive views that can stretch all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

When planning your visit, you will find that the park offers various access points, and parking is generally available. While the core Redwood Grove section is quite accessible, the full Cowell Highlights Loop covers more varied terrain, so be prepared for a moderate effort. It is a great option if you are looking for a comprehensive experience of the park's diverse landscapes.

This trail is notable for showcasing some of the tallest and oldest trees, with redwoods standing up to 277 feet tall and over 1,500 years old. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as banana slugs or black-tailed deer, which are often seen in these ancient forests. The route offers a unique blend of towering arboreal giants and panoramic vistas, making it a standout choice in the region.

Step into a world of ancient giants on the Redwood Grove Loop Trail, an easy 1.4-mile (2.3 km) hike that takes you through a majestic redwood forest. You will gain a gentle 48 feet (15 metres) in elevation, making this route accessible for most visitors, and can complete it in about 35 minutes. As you wander, you will be surrounded by towering old-growth Coast Redwoods, creating a cool and serene atmosphere, with the impressive Fremont Tree, a hollowed-out redwood you can explore, as a highlight.

This trail is widely accessible, including for strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone. You will find benches along the way if you need to rest, and restrooms and a drinking fountain are conveniently located near the trailhead and in the main parking lot. Be aware that the path can become muddy after rainfall, so consider your footwear choices before you set out.

Discover the unique ecology of this ancient forest, home to trees that have stood for over a thousand years. Keep an eye out for fascinating features like 'fairy rings,' where new redwoods grow in circles around the base of an older, fallen tree, and even a rare albino redwood. This short loop offers a perfect introduction to the grandeur of these magnificent trees and the natural wonders of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

Explore the Fall Creek and Lost Empire Trail Loop, a moderate hike that winds for 7.0 miles (11.3 km) through dense redwood forests. You will gain 1524 feet (465 metres) in elevation, typically completing the route in about 3 hours and 47 minutes. Along the way, the Fall Creek section offers the soothing sounds of rushing water and tranquil pools, while higher points on the Lost Empire Trail provide glimpses of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Be ready for rugged and uneven terrain, including narrow paths and frequent treefall that might require some scrambling. Stream crossings are common, especially in winter when they are often unbridged, so you may need to navigate planks or wade through water during rainy periods. Parking is available at the Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

This route offers a look into the area's past, with historical remnants like the moss-covered Lime Kiln ruins and the Barrel Mill site. You will also see the resilience of the forest, with many second-growth redwoods showing signs of resprouting after the 2020 CZU Lightning Fire. It is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

Hike the moderate 2.4-mile River Trail in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, featuring riverside views, old-growth trees, and historic bridge