The best walks and hikes around Felton

Felton, situated in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offers a diverse range of hiking experiences. You'll find trails winding through ancient redwood forests, along the San Lorenzo River, and across unique sandhills and forested canyons. Options range from gentle riverside walks to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes.

There are over 110 hiking routes available around Felton, catering to various preferences and skill levels. This includes 61 easy trails, 45 moderate routes, and 4 more difficult options for experienced hikers.

Yes, Felton offers several family-friendly options. The Felton Bridges – A1 Main Road Underpass loop from Felton is an easy 3.0-mile trail exploring local bridges, suitable for a leisurely outing. Additionally, within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, the 0.9-mile Redwood Grove Loop Trail is a flat path ideal for families, showcasing a 40-acre old-growth redwood grove.

Felton is renowned for its towering redwood forests, especially within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where you can see trees over 2,000 years old. The San Lorenzo River also winds through the area, offering scenic riparian zones. For unique views, the Observation Deck in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park provides panoramic vistas of the Santa Cruz coastline. You can also explore the historic Felton Covered Bridge, dating back to 1892.

Yes, many of the trails around Felton are circular. For example, the Dunlop Tragedy Memorial – Cattle Grazing Area loop from Felton is a moderate 6.3-mile path that leads through open areas. Another option is the Dunlop Tragedy Memorial loop from Felton, a moderate 6.9-mile route.

The hiking routes in Felton are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 390 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the awe-inspiring redwood forests, the serene riverine landscapes, and the variety of trails that cater to different abilities, making it a rewarding destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Yes, the Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park features historical ruins, including old lime kilns, adding a historical dimension to your hike through the second-growth redwood forest. Additionally, the Felton Covered Bridge, a historic landmark, is easily accessible and offers a pleasant setting for a short walk.

Absolutely. The Observation Deck in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, situated on a sandhill, offers stunning panoramic views of the Santa Cruz coastline and the surrounding mountains. Many trails also provide glimpses of the majestic redwood canopy and the winding San Lorenzo River.

Beyond the trails, you can explore several attractions. The Hauxley Nature Reserve offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. For a unique experience, consider a ride on the Roaring Camp Railroads' steam train through the redwoods, or for more adventure, Mount Hermon Adventures offers ziplining and canopy tours.

While many trails are easy to moderate, Felton does offer some longer routes. For instance, the Warkworth Castle – Rothbury Market Cross loop from Felton is a moderate 10.3-mile trail. The region also has 4 routes classified as difficult for those seeking a more strenuous challenge.

The diverse habitats around Felton, including redwood forests, riparian zones along the San Lorenzo River, and unique sandhills, support a variety of flora and fauna specific to Santa Cruz County. While specific sightings vary, hikers may encounter various bird species, deer, and other small mammals common to the California coastal ranges.