Santa Cruz Day Trip: Wilder Ranch State Park

A great way to discover the Santa Cruz coastline is by making a trip to the Wilder Ranch State Park. 

Nestled on the Pacific Ocean coast, just north of Santa Cruz and spanning over 7,000 acres, you can just imagine all the adventure that awaits!

From fun park events, to hikes fit for all skill levels, and learning the area's history, the park certainly has it all. 

Your Adventure Awaits

Enjoy a blast from the past and take a step back in time to the ranching days of the late 1800’s. You’ll learn all about California’s early ranching history while also getting the chance to experience for yourself what life was like all those years ago working on a dairy ranch. 

In fact, there’s several buildings for you to explore as well, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the experience. 

There is an 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse, a 1897 Victorian home, barns, a water-powered machine stop from 1896, rodeo arena and many other historical buildings all yours to explore. They’ve been restored over the years and actually now act as a museum.

And, on Saturdays and Sundays beginning at 1pm, you can look forward to a free ranch tour. 

Otherwise, the Park's 35 miles of trail offers another great way to explore the area.

From hikers, to bikers and even esquartains, all are welcome! 

In fact, equestrians are allowed on all of the park's trails and unpaved roads (excluding the ocean side of Highway 1). 

Discover Hiking Trails For All Levels

Easy 

The Old Cove Landing Trail to Ohlone Bluff Trail is a great option for those seeking an easier  hike. Extending 2.5 miles, the trail itself is mostly flat, which helps minimize the challenges. 

If you’re hoping to enjoy views of Wilder Beach, which is a snowy plover preserve, this hike offers a scenic overlook above the area, where humans are prohibited.

Medium

The Wilder Ridge Loop is an excellent option for those looking for more of a moderate hike. 

6.3 miles in distance, featuring an elevation gain of 600 feet, this hike offers stunning views of Monterey Bay. Other wildlife you can look forward to seeing include rolling grasslands, Douglas-fir trees, deers, creeks, hawks, bobcats and even turkey vultures. See if you can spot them all!

Difficult

If you’re after a challenge, the Redwoods 8 mile hike is for you. 

Start by heading up the Wilder Ridge Loop, followed by the Enchanted Loop and look forward to a sharp contrast in views from the typical wide open spaces, to the quiet ravine. 

There’s certainly no shortage of fun when you make a trip to Wilder Ranch State Park. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your visit today! Or look forward to these kinds of adventures every day when you call Santa Cruz home.

Connect with Lauren Spencer to begin discovering all the latest listings – your dream home awaits. Contact us today!