The best walks and hikes in Soquel Demonstration State Forest

There is a free parking lot at the main entrance on Highland Way, but it can sometimes be closed. Roadside parking near the trailhead is also an option, but be sure to park safely and legally. It's a good idea to arrive early, as the area is popular.

Yes, dogs are permitted in Soquel Demonstration State Forest, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Be aware that you will be sharing many trails with fast-moving mountain bikers, so it's important to keep your dog close and under control for everyone's safety.

Soquel is a working forest, which means trails can be closed for logging operations or due to weather damage. It is highly recommended to check the official CAL FIRE Soquel Demonstration State Forest Facebook page for the most current updates on trail status before you go.

The main trails can be long and strenuous with significant elevation changes, making them challenging for young children. For a more family-friendly experience, consider the easier Land of Medicine Buddha loop from Happy Valley nearby, which offers a much shorter and gentler walk.

You will share most trails with mountain bikers, who are often moving very quickly downhill. While bikers should yield to hikers, it's safest to be proactive.

Stay alert, listen for approaching bikes, and be prepared to step aside, especially on narrow singletrack trails like the Flow Trail. For a quieter hike with less bike traffic, stick to the wider fire roads like Hihn's Mill Road.

While Soquel Demonstration State Forest is known for its redwood groves and creeks, it does not feature prominent waterfalls. If seeing waterfalls is your main goal, a great alternative is the nearby Bridge Creek Waterfalls – Aptos Creek Trail loop from Day Valley in The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park.

Facilities are very limited. There is typically a portable restroom near the main entrance, but there is no potable water available in the forest. You must bring all the water you will need for your hike.

For a dedicated hiking experience focused on redwoods, the best option is to follow Hihn's Mill Road out to the Harrison Grove. This small but beautiful stand of old-growth redwoods offers a glimpse of the forest's original grandeur and is located in a quieter part of the park with less bike traffic.

Soquel Demonstration Forest is a multi-use working forest with a rugged feel, best known for its world-class mountain biking trails that hikers share. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, on the other hand, offers a more traditional hiking experience with a larger network of trails dedicated primarily to foot traffic, including more accessible options along Aptos Creek.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the beautiful redwood scenery and the challenging terrain, but frequently advise hikers to be vigilant and courteous regarding the heavy mountain bike traffic on the singletrack trails.

No, cell phone reception is unreliable to non-existent throughout most of the forest. It's recommended to download your maps for offline use before you arrive, hike with a companion, and let someone know your planned route and return time.

Soquel Demonstration State Forest is open for day use only, from dawn to dusk. Overnight camping is not permitted.