Henry Cowell Redwoods: Ancient Giants
Discover ancient redwood groves, diverse ecosystems, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a natural escape for all.
Step into a realm of towering ancient redwoods at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a sanctuary of natural beauty and historical significance nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This park offers an immersive experience among some of the tallest and oldest trees on Earth, with the largest reaching approximately 277 feet tall and 1,500 years old. Explore diverse habitats beyond the redwood grove, including grasslands, riverfronts, and unique sandhills. Whether you're seeking a peaceful stroll, a challenging hike, or a glimpse into California's redwood history, Henry Cowell provides a memorable escape into nature's grandeur. Don't miss the chance to wander through the iconic Redwood Grove Loop Trail, an accessible path that winds through these majestic giants, offering a humbling perspective on the passage of time and the enduring power of nature. The park also features the Fall Creek Unit, a second-growth redwood forest with a fern-lined river canyon and remnants of a lime-processing industry.
A brief summary to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
- Felton, California, 95018, US
- +1831-335-4598
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly. The main parking lot is conveniently located near the Redwood Grove Loop Trail.
- Explore beyond the redwoods! Discover diverse habitats like grasslands, the San Lorenzo River, and the unique Santa Cruz Sandhills, each offering a different perspective on the park's beauty.
- Take a flashlight to fully experience the Fremont Tree on the Redwood Grove Loop Trail. Step inside the hollowed-out base and marvel at this resilient redwood.
- Consider visiting the Fall Creek Unit for a quieter experience. This area features a second-growth redwood forest, a fern-lined river canyon, and remnants of a historic lime-processing industry.
- Check the park's website for the latest information on closures, fire restrictions, and other important updates before your visit.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 17, take the Mount Hermon Road exit. Follow Mount Hermon Road until it ends at Graham Hill Road. For the day-use area and Redwood Grove, turn right onto Graham Hill Road, then turn left onto Highway 9. The park entrance is about a half-mile down on the left. For the campground, turn left onto Graham Hill Road and continue approximately 2.5 miles; the entrance is on the right. Parking at the day-use area costs $10 per vehicle.
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Public Transport
Santa Cruz METRO offers bus service to the vicinity of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Check the Santa Cruz METRO schedule for routes and times to Felton. From Felton, it's approximately a half-mile walk south on Highway 9 to the park's day-use entrance. Bus fares vary, but a single ride typically costs around $2-$3.
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Roaring Camp Railroads
For a unique approach, consider taking the Roaring Camp Railroads steam train from Felton to a location adjacent to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. From the Roaring Camp depot, it's a short walk to the Redwood Grove Loop Trail. Train ticket prices vary depending on the excursion, check their website for current pricing.
Discover more about Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Redwood Grove Loop Trail
0.1 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Felton, CA, where towering redwoods and serene pathways await your exploration.
Visitor Center | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting redwoods and rich natural history at the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Visitor Center in California.
Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
2.0 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.
SS Palo Alto
15.4 km
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Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park
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John Steinbeck House
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Castro Adobe State Historic Park
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Jack Fischer Park
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Casa Grande
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Portola Redwoods State Park
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Historic house of Mr. Fremont Older
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Carlyle Hotel Campbell
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Extra Space Storage
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Forthright Oyster Bar & Kitchen
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Unmissable attractions to see
Roaring Camp
0.2 km
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Felton Covered Bridge County Park
1.5 km
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Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
1.8 km
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The Mystery Spot
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San Lorenzo Park
8.1 km
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Adventure Out
9.0 km
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Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing
9.1 km
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Rexford Winery
9.2 km
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Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
9.2 km
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Boardwalk Bowl
9.2 km
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Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove
9.3 km
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Neptune's Kingdom
9.3 km
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Cowell Beach
9.4 km
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Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
9.4 km
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Santa Cruz Wharf
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Essential places to dine
Nonno's Italian
14.9 km
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Effie's Restaurant & Bar
27.2 km
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Sorelle Italian Bistro
27.3 km
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Capers Eat & Drink
28.3 km
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LeQuy
28.5 km
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El Greco Grill
28.7 km
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Kirk's Steakburgers
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Locanda Sorrento
29.3 km
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Wild Rose Eatery and Bar
29.4 km
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One Fish Raw Bar
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A Bellagio Italian Restaurant
29.4 km
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Mo's Campbell
29.4 km
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Opa! Campbell
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Sushi Confidential - Campbell
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Trattoria 360
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Redwood Store
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Marvel Cake
28.3 km
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Kirkwood Plaza
28.3 km
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420lifestyles
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Heroes
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Simply Smashing
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Nice Twice Doll Shop
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Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith
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Home Consignment Center - Campbell
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Steepers
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Florra
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Celtic Shoppe
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DOTTIES ROLLER SKATE SHOP
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
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Court's Lounge
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Khartoum Lounge
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Cardiff & Cocktails
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Woodhams Sports Lounge
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Lobby Lounge
33.4 km
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The Sportsmen's Lounge
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Koja Bar
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Aces Icehouse
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Rocco's Ballpark
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Normandy House
35.0 km
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The Halford
35.1 km
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Camino Karaoke
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