The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Felton Station Open Space Preserve (Closed)
4.6
(157)
2,410
hikers
42
hikes
Alternative family friendly hikes near Felton Station Open Space Preserve (Closed) offer diverse landscapes within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The region features dense redwood and mixed evergreen forests, transitioning to chaparral-covered ridges and oak woodlands. Many trails follow creek beds, providing varied scenery and ecological habitats. The terrain includes both gentle paths and more demanding ascents, catering to different ability levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Felton Station Open Space Preserve (Closed)
- The most popular family friendly hiking routeβ¦
Last updated: May 14, 2026
2
hikers
2.40km
00:40
40m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
30
hikers
15.2km
04:25
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
23
hikers
6.11km
01:41
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(14)
236
hikers
12.0km
03:40
450m
450m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
41
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Lake Ranch Reservoir is nice and peaceful to run, walk, hike, or bike along. There is a picnic table on the north side of the pond that you could rest at. Since the water is in a small valley, you may want to bring bug spray in the spring/summer months.
0
0
From here, you get a great view of the forest and valley, with the Santa Clara Mountains in the background. Itβs a nice spot to stop for a picnic and take in the scenery. The trail continues upward, but this spot is perfect if youβre just looking for a good viewpoint.
0
0
This old tree group shows how new Branches are interconnected. You can see how erosion in the valley actually resulted in a braches coming higher out of the trunk
1
0
The Lake Ranch Reservoir is nice and peaceful to run, walk, hike, or bike along. There is a picnic table on the north side of the pond that you could rest at. Since the water is in a small valley, you may want to bring bug spray in the spring/summer months.
0
0
An old growth grove of Redwood Trees, famous to Norther California. This old growth forest has a rich ecosystem and thick canopy keeping the trails nice and shaded.
1
0
Bear Creek Summit sits in an old Redwood Growth Forest at at an altitude of 2β425ft 739m
1
0
As of June 2023, the John Nicholson trail (this segment ) is closed due to damage from the storms of the winter months. No word when it will re-open.
0
0
Up the hill from Sanborn along a gravel trail is a quiet reservoir.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Felton Station Open Space Preserve currently open for hiking?
No, Felton Station Open Space Preserve is currently closed to the public. It is managed for ecosystem rehabilitation by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. However, the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains offer many similar family-friendly hiking opportunities.
Why is Felton Station Open Space Preserve closed to the public?
The preserve is closed as it is undergoing ecosystem rehabilitation. This management effort aims to restore and protect the natural environment within the preserve.
What are some good family-friendly hiking alternatives near Felton Station Open Space Preserve?
While Felton Station Open Space Preserve is closed, the Santa Cruz Mountains boast numerous family-friendly trails. For an easy, scenic walk, consider the John Nicholas Trail to Lake Ranch Reservoir, which is just under 2.4 km. Another great option is the Lake Ranch Reservoir loop from El Sereno, an easy 6.1 km loop.
Are there easy, short hikes suitable for families with young children in the surrounding area?
Absolutely. Many trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains are perfect for younger hikers. The John Nicholas Trail to Lake Ranch Reservoir is an easy 2.4 km route, ideal for a shorter outing. You can also find shorter loops through old-growth redwoods, such as the 2.5-mile trail from Redwood Estates mentioned in the region research.
Can I find trails with redwood trees for my family to explore?
Yes, the Santa Cruz Mountains are famous for their majestic redwood forests. You can find trails that lead through groves of old-growth redwoods, offering a serene and immersive experience for the whole family. An easy option is the Old Growth Redwood Trees loop from Lexington Reservoir County Park, which is about 4 km long.
Are the alternative trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains dog-friendly?
Many parks and open spaces in the Santa Cruz Mountains have specific rules regarding dogs. It's always best to check the individual park or trail regulations before you go, as some trails may require dogs to be on a leash, while others may not permit them.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains?
The terrain varies, offering diverse experiences. You can expect shaded redwood forests, open chaparral-covered ridges, and oak woodlands. Many trails also follow creek beds, providing picturesque views and the soothing sounds of flowing water. Family-friendly routes typically feature well-maintained paths with gentle inclines.
Where can we park for these family-friendly trails?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Popular spots like Sanborn County Park (for trails like John Nicholas) and areas around Lexington Reservoir County Park typically have designated parking lots. It's advisable to check the specific trail page on komoot for detailed parking information before your visit.
What is the best time of year to hike with family in this region?
The Santa Cruz Mountains offer pleasant hiking conditions for much of the year. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while fall provides cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer mornings are also great for hiking, especially in shaded redwood groves. Winters can be wet, but clear days offer crisp air and fewer crowds.
What natural features can we expect to see on these family-friendly hikes?
On family-friendly hikes in the Santa Cruz Mountains, you can expect to encounter towering redwood trees, tranquil creek-side paths, and scenic views of reservoirs like Lake Ranch Reservoir. The diverse ecosystems also mean you might spot various local flora and fauna.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Yes, there are several circular routes that are great for families. For example, the Lake Ranch Reservoir loop from El Sereno is an easy 6.1 km loop. Another option is the Madrone Knoll Loop, a moderate 12 km route that offers varied scenery.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains?
The family-friendly trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the majestic redwood trees, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience for all ages.
Most popular routes in Felton Station Open Space Preserve (Closed)
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
