Garden of Eden: A Hidden Oasis in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Discover the Garden of Eden: A secret swimming hole nestled in the heart of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
The Garden of Eden is a popular swimming hole along the San Lorenzo River, nestled within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Known for its natural beauty and refreshing waters, it's a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking a tranquil escape. The swimming hole is surrounded by lush greenery and sandy shores, creating a secluded and idyllic atmosphere.
A brief summary to Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
- CA-9, Felton, California, 95018, US
- +1831-335-4598
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Pack a picnic and spend the day enjoying the sun and water. Remember to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Be prepared for a short hike from the parking lot to the swimming hole. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a backpack to carry your belongings.
- Respect the natural environment and pack out all your trash. Help keep the Garden of Eden clean and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
- Be aware that the Garden of Eden is a clothing-optional area. If you are not comfortable with nudity, this may not be the right place for you.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach the Garden of Eden, navigate to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. From Santa Cruz, drive approximately 3 miles north on Highway 9. Look for a dirt parking lot on the side of the road; this is the trailhead for the Garden of Eden. Parking at the main park entrance costs $10. From the parking lot, follow the trail down to the San Lorenzo River. The hike is short but can be steep in places. Follow the river upstream to find the Garden of Eden swimming hole.
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Public Transport
To reach the Garden of Eden using public transportation, take Santa Cruz Metro Route 35 to Highway 9. From the bus stop, walk south along Highway 9 for approximately 0.75 miles to the Ox Fire Road Trailhead. The trail to the Garden of Eden is a short walk from the trailhead. A single ride on Santa Cruz Metro costs $2-$7. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as service may be limited.
Discover more about Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visitor Center | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
1.7 km
Discover the enchanting redwoods and rich natural history at the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Visitor Center in California.
Redwood Grove Loop Trail
1.7 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Felton, CA, where towering redwoods and serene pathways await your exploration.
Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
3.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fall Creek Unit in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a must-visit hiking destination in California's majestic redwood forests.
San Lorenzo Valley Museum, Grace Episcopal Gallery
11.7 km
Discover the captivating history of the San Lorenzo Valley at this charming museum, showcasing artifacts and stories of the region's past within a historic redwood church, offering free admission and engaging exhibits.
SS Palo Alto
14.2 km
Explore the haunting history of SS Palo Alto, a submerged historical landmark offering a unique glimpse into the maritime past of California's coastline.
Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
17.5 km
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park
23.3 km
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Castro Adobe State Historic Park
23.4 km
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John Steinbeck House
23.6 km
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Casa Grande
27.2 km
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Jack Fischer Park
27.8 km
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Carlyle Hotel Campbell
29.1 km
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Portola Redwoods State Park
29.1 km
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Extra Space Storage
29.1 km
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Historic house of Mr. Fremont Older
29.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
1.8 km
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Roaring Camp
1.8 km
Discover the charm of Roaring Camp, where historic steam trains and breathtaking redwoods create unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages.
Felton Covered Bridge County Park
3.2 km
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The Mystery Spot
4.9 km
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San Lorenzo Park
6.4 km
A vibrant downtown Santa Cruz park offering recreation, events, and a scenic riverfront setting for locals and tourists alike.
Adventure Out
7.2 km
Discover the thrill of outdoor adventures in Santa Cruz with Adventure Out, offering surfing, hiking, and kayaking experiences amidst stunning coastal landscapes.
Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing
7.3 km
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Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
7.4 km
Explore marine biodiversity at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, a must-visit destination for ocean lovers and conservation enthusiasts.
Rexford Winery
7.4 km
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Boardwalk Bowl
7.4 km
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Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove
7.5 km
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Neptune's Kingdom
7.5 km
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Cowell Beach
7.6 km
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Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
7.6 km
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Santa Cruz Wharf
7.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Nonno's Italian
16.2 km
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Effie's Restaurant & Bar
28.7 km
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Sorelle Italian Bistro
28.7 km
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Capers Eat & Drink
29.8 km
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LeQuy
30.0 km
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El Greco Grill
30.1 km
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Kirk's Steakburgers
30.2 km
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Locanda Sorrento
30.7 km
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Wild Rose Eatery and Bar
30.8 km
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One Fish Raw Bar
30.8 km
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A Bellagio Italian Restaurant
30.8 km
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Mo's Campbell
30.8 km
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Opa! Campbell
30.8 km
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Sushi Confidential - Campbell
30.9 km
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Trattoria 360
30.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Redwood Store
16.2 km
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Marvel Cake
29.8 km
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Kirkwood Plaza
29.8 km
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420lifestyles
30.0 km
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Heroes
30.7 km
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DOTTIES ROLLER SKATE SHOP
30.8 km
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Simply Smashing
30.8 km
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Nice Twice Doll Shop
30.8 km
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Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith
30.9 km
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Steepers
30.9 km
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Redemption - California crafted goods curated with our community and planet in mind
30.9 km
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Florra
30.9 km
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Celtic Shoppe
30.9 km
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Recycle Bookstore West
30.9 km
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Bombshell Boutique
30.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
29.9 km
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Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
30.3 km
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Court's Lounge
30.4 km
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Khartoum Lounge
30.7 km
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Cardiff & Cocktails
30.8 km
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Woodhams Sports Lounge
34.0 km
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Lobby Lounge
34.8 km
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The Sportsmen's Lounge
34.9 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at The Sportsmen's Lounge, a top bar in Santa Clara offering great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Koja Bar
35.0 km
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Aces Icehouse
35.1 km
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Rocco's Ballpark
36.1 km
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Normandy House
36.4 km
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The Halford
36.7 km
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Camino Karaoke
36.9 km
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EMA Karaoke & Bar
37.2 km
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