Loggers clear-cut their way through these forests from the1880s into the 1920s, but the forest once again stands triumphant with mighty redwoods. Folks from all over come to stroll, hike, run and mountain bike some 30 miles of trails, exploring an area that was once nearly swept clean of trees. There are gorgeous trails to be found in this dense second- and-third-growth redwood forest, which begins near sea level and rises dramatically up into the mountains. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, Aptos
Cool waterfall hikes near me free#
(Note: Mountain lions have been spotted here, but those big cats are usually most active at dawn and dusk.)ĭetails: Open from dawn to dusk at 13100 Montebello Road in Cupertino, with restrooms and free parking available And afterward… Go wine tasting ($20) or picnicking at the Picchetti Winery complex, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Keep your eyes open for wild turkeys and other creatures. The trails winds up and down, so expect a bit of a cardio workout as you pass by canyons populated with madrone and coast live oak. Park in the lot near the historic Picchetti Winery - more on that in a bit - and head for the appropriately named Zinfandel Trail (1.9 miles) with its views of the tranquil Picchetti Ranch Pond and seasonal waterfalls and streams. It’s hard to believe you’re only a few miles from the world’s biggest tech company - Apple – as you stroll the shaded paths of this gorgeous 308-acre preserve. A daily rotation of food trucks offers bites to go with that IPA or Kolsch as you socialize outdoors Picchetti Ranch, Cupertino Find more details at and And afterward: The Calicraft Taproom and Beer Garden is open daily at 2700 Mitchell Drive in Walnut Creek, offering an ideal, family-friendly place for dusty hikers to hang out after an adventure. You’ll pass through Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area, which has restrooms, picnic areas and a public swimming pool ($2-$4) - another place to cool off on a hot day - which operates Thursday-Sunday.
Cool waterfall hikes near me for free#
Wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet and bring hiking poles, if you need help with balance.ĭetails: Park for free at the Trail Staging Area at the end of Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek. With the creek so healthy this year from winter rains, that means careful balancing across stones and logs.
The trail crosses the creek several times, and there are no bridges. The oak forest provides shade, and hikers may have no choice but to get wet in Pine Creek. The route starts at a parking lot that serves both Diablo Foothills Regional Park and the Castle Rock Regional Area. But you can still get a great view of the formations via a 1.5-mile walk into Pine Creek canyon along the Stage Road trail. (But remember to bring a hat and pack sunscreen and water!) if you want further protection.)Įvery winter and spring, peregrine falcons come to nest at this stunning collection of sandstone pinnacles that loom over a pleasant canyon filled with oak forest, meadows and meandering Pine Creek.įrom February to early August, humans are asked to refrain from clambering over the craggy cliffs to give the falcons some space. Here are five possibilities that offer up great views, varied experiences and enough overhead foliage to help protect you from the rays. But it can be a great way to escape the heat - as long as you pick the right trail. Hiking on a hot day might not sound all that appealing.
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