The best city hikes and walks in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve
4.6
(218)
3,218
hikers
38
hikes
Urban hiking trails in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve traverse a 246-acre greenbelt in Santa Cruz County, California. The preserve features diverse ecosystems, including coastal prairie, oak woodlands, and a riparian corridor along the West Branch of Moore Creek. Hikers can explore areas with coastal shrubland and Douglas firs, with some ridges offering views of Monterey Bay. The terrain is generally gentle, characterized by varied natural habitats rather than significant elevation changes.
Best urban hiking trails in Moore Creek…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
7.20km
01:50
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
95
hikers
7.42km
01:54
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
61
hikers
10.2km
02:38
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Northern entrance to the coastal park from Delaware Ave. The trailhead is pedestrian and biker only, The former road goes straight to the beach, while smaller trails turn east into the Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve, and West into the upper portions of the State Beach Park.
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While there are more formal memorials to the sport of surfing a little ways south at the Lighthouse and north at the official Surfer Memorial Sculpture, this spot is more personal. Here along West Cliff Drive is the famous surfing spot known as Steamer Lane. For all its fame and pleasure, surf conditions, accidents and bad luck exact a fatal toll. An informal memorial up on the cliff remembers surfers who have died.-It's next to a staircase leading down to the beach. The wooden plaques are all custom, hand-routed tributes by friends or family. The carved messages, lacking biographical details (because they are well-known locals?) are sometimes adorned with flower arrangements and small keepsakes along the fence. While these memorials of surfer deaths are also sad, there is a somewhat relaxed atmosphere at this spot. The surfers were doing what they loved, and knew the risks.
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Small protected cove below the cliffs, visible from the trail above.
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Great overlook at the south end of Santa Cruz beach overlooking the waterfront and the municipal pier. A trail and sidewalk continues parallel to West Cliff Drive to the south west.
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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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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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The West Cliff Multipurpose Cycleway is a 3-mile paved trail that follows the southern coastline of Santa Cruz. The views of the ocean and cliffs make for a gorgeous backdrop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of urban hiking trails can I find in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve?
Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve offers a variety of urban hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to moderately difficult paths. You'll find routes that traverse diverse ecosystems, including wildflower fields, coastal prairie, oak woodlands, and riparian corridors. Many trails provide stunning panoramic views of Monterey Bay.
How many urban hiking routes are available in the Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve guide?
This guide features nearly 40 urban hiking routes within Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve. Most of these, about 34, are rated as easy, with 5 routes considered moderate, offering options for various fitness levels.
Are there any easy urban hikes suitable for beginners or a relaxed outing?
Yes, the preserve has many easy urban hikes. For a pleasant coastal experience, consider the Natural Bridges State Beach loop from Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve, which is just over 5 kilometers. Another great option is the Natural Bridges State Beach loop from Lighthouse Field State Beach, a shorter 3.8-kilometer route.
What are some longer or more challenging urban hikes in the area?
For a longer, moderately challenging urban hike, you might enjoy the West Cliff Cycleway – Santa Cruz Lighthouse loop from Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve. This route spans over 11 kilometers and offers extended coastal views.
What are the best times of year to go urban hiking in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve?
The preserve is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant wildflower displays, while fall offers the chance to witness monarch butterfly migrations near Natural Bridges State Beach. The coastal climate generally provides pleasant hiking conditions throughout the seasons.
What kind of natural features and landscapes can I expect to see on the trails?
Hikers can explore a rich tapestry of habitats, including expansive wildflower fields, rare coastal terrace prairie, oak woodlands, and a riparian corridor along the West Branch of Moore Creek. You'll also find coastal shrubland and areas with tall Douglas firs, all contributing to stunning views of Monterey Bay.
Are there any specific landmarks or attractions along the urban hiking routes?
While hiking, you'll be close to significant natural attractions. The preserve connects to Natural Bridges State Beach, known for its picturesque natural arches and, in the fall, monarch butterfly migrations. Some routes, like the West Cliff Cycleway – Santa Cruz Lighthouse loop from Swift Halt, pass by the Santa Cruz Lighthouse.
What do other hikers say about the urban trails in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve?
The urban hiking trails in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning coastal views, diverse natural landscapes, and the peaceful atmosphere.
Is Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve dog-friendly or bicycle-friendly?
No, to protect its sensitive resources and rare species habitat, public use within Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve is limited to hiking only. Dogs and bicycles are prohibited on the trails.
Where can I park or access the urban hiking trails in Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve?
There is no on-site parking directly within the preserve. However, walk-in entrances are available from Highway 1 at Shaffer Road and at the end of Meder Street, providing convenient access to the trail network.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes available?
Yes, several circular routes are available. For example, the West Cliff Drive Loop offers a scenic circular urban hike of about 7.2 kilometers, providing continuous coastal views.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while urban hiking here?
Moore Creek Upland Open Space Preserve is a critical habitat for several rare, threatened, and endangered species, including the red-legged frog and the Ohlone tiger beetle. While these are often elusive, you may spot various bird species, and the preserve's management includes cattle grazing, so you might see cattle in designated areas.
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