The best running trails in Santa Cruz County

Santa Cruz County offers a diverse range of terrains for runners. You'll find everything from shaded trails through ancient redwood forests in areas like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park to scenic coastal paths along West Cliff Drive. The Santa Cruz Mountains also provide more challenging trails with varied habitats. Our routes include options with significant elevation gain, such as the Mount Wrightson – Mount Wrightson Wilderness loop from Madera Canyon, as well as routes with gentler inclines like the Running loop from Empire Ranch.

While many of the routes in Santa Cruz County offer a good challenge, there are options suitable for beginners. The Running loop from Empire Ranch is classified as moderate, featuring a relatively gentle elevation gain of around 87 meters over 10 kilometers, making it a good choice for those looking for a less strenuous run. For very easy, flat options, consider sections of West Cliff Drive or the continuous sandy beaches from Seacliff to Rio Del Mar.

Santa Cruz County is renowned for its stunning scenery. Coastal routes like West Cliff Drive offer breathtaking ocean views, especially around Lighthouse Point. Wilder Ranch State Park also features trails with panoramic ocean vistas. For a challenging run with rewarding views, consider the Lower Old Baldy Trail – View from Lower Super Trail loop from Madera Canyon, which provides expansive outlooks.

Yes, several excellent loop trails are available for runners who prefer to start and end in the same location. Examples from our collection include the challenging Mount Wrightson – Mount Wrightson Wilderness loop from Madera Canyon, the Running loop from Madera Canyon, and the extensive Enzensberg Canyon – Stetson's Dam loop from Santa Rita Abbey.

Many running routes in Santa Cruz County offer opportunities to see natural beauty and local points of interest. Along some trails, you might encounter historical sites like the Harshaw Townsite. The Lower Old Baldy Trail itself is a notable feature. The region is also home to towering redwood forests, diverse coastlines, and unique natural formations like those at Natural Bridges State Beach.

Santa Cruz County boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate with low humidity and approximately 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an ideal destination for running year-round. While summer offers warm, sunny days perfect for coastal runs, the cooler temperatures of spring and autumn are excellent for tackling forest trails. Winter running is also pleasant, especially in the redwood forests which offer natural shelter.

Santa Cruz County offers many dog-friendly outdoor spaces. While specific regulations can vary by park and trail, many state parks and local trails allow dogs on leash. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, for example, permits dogs on certain trails. It's always best to check the specific rules for each park or trail before heading out with your furry companion.

For families looking to jog together, Santa Cruz County has several suitable options. Trails in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, such as the Redwood Grove Loop Trail, are generally flat and accessible, offering a pleasant experience for all ages. Pogonip Park near downtown Santa Cruz also features a network of trails through meadows and redwood groves that are great for family outings. Always check the trail difficulty and length to ensure it's appropriate for your family's fitness level.

The komoot community highly rates the running experience in Santa Cruz County. Users often praise the incredible diversity of landscapes, from the serene redwood forests to the stunning coastal bluffs. The well-maintained trails and the opportunity to connect with nature are frequently highlighted. The region's mild climate also makes it a favorite for year-round outdoor activity.

Komoot features a selection of running routes in Santa Cruz County, with five curated tours currently available. These range from moderate to difficult, offering diverse experiences for runners. You can explore options like the challenging Enzensberg Canyon – Stetson's Dam loop from Santa Rita Abbey, which spans over 46 kilometers, or shorter, intense climbs like the Running loop from Madera Canyon.