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HENRY COWELL REDWOODS STATE PARK

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Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park © stateparks.com
Preserved by Samuel H. Cowell and the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors in cooperation with the California State Park Commission. Dedicated August 15, 1954.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park © stateparks.com
Photograph of the base of a coast redwood tree known as The Giant located at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, in Santa Cruz County, California photo taken June 2022
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park © stateparks.com
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Redwood Grove. Tale of the Rings sign explaining the slice of a 2200-year-old Redwood tree.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park © stateparks.com
Bridge over San Lorenzo River
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park © stateparks.com
Very old tree with rings. As old as the birth of Jesus Christ.
Valley Quail © stateparks.com
Valley Quail
Oh Yell © stateparks.com
Spring Hike © stateparks.com
Afternoon Hike © stateparks.com
Keep On Leash © stateparks.com
HENRY COWELL REDWOODS STATE PARK ACTIVITIES
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseHiking Trailyes
Birding
The park offers a variety of birding opportunities with over 200 species, including owls and woodpeckers. Birdwatchers can explore different habitats such as redwood groves, riverfront areas, and sandhill environments. The Fall Creek Unit is particularly popular for spotting birds.
Trails
1. Redwood Grove Loop Trail: This is a 0.8-mile easy trail that takes hikers through an ancient grove of old-growth redwoods, featuring the tallest tree in the park which stands at over 277 feet.

2. River Trail: A moderate difficulty level trail stretching for about five miles along the San Lorenzo river, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife like otters or kingfishers.

3. Pipeline Road: An approximately six mile long multi-use fire road with gentle inclines and declines making it suitable for hiking as well as mountain biking; offers panoramic views of Santa Cruz Mountains.

4. Observation Deck Loop: At just under one mile round trip from Park Headquarters this short hike leads up to a deck providing expansive vistas across Monterey Bay on clear days.

5. Eagle Creek Trail: It's around two miles long leading uphill into more remote areas of Henry Cowell State Park where you can enjoy solitude amidst towering trees and lush vegetation.

6. Pine Tree Trail: Approximately three-quarters-of-a-mile loop starting near campground entrance showcasing different types of pine species found within California’s coastal region including Knobcone Pine & Bishop Pine among others.

7. Powder Mill Fire Road - Rincon Fire Road – Big Rock Hole Pathway: A moderately difficult seven-and-half-miles-long route combining several trails/roads taking hikers past historical sites such as lime kilns before ending by serene swimming hole known locally as 'Big Rock Hole'.

8. Sandhill Bluff Overlook Spur: This half-a-mile spur off Eagle Creek Trial provides stunning overlook onto Sandhills habitat area characterized by sandy soil supporting unique flora/fauna adapted specifically to these conditions

9. Fall Creek Unit Trails: Particularly popular during rainy season due its numerous waterfalls/creeks running alongside most paths here; total length varies depending upon chosen routes but generally range between two-to-seven miles per circuit
Bicycling
Bicycling is permitted on paved roads and fire trails. Be cautious, as some areas have steep terrain.

Mountain biking can be challenging due to the park's hilly landscape. Always wear a helmet for safety.

The Pipeline Road offers an easy ride with gentle slopes suitable for beginners or family outings.

Riders should note that bicycles are not allowed in certain sections of the park including all single-track trails.

For those seeking more adventure, Rincon Fire Road provides steeper inclines and rougher terrains but requires advanced skills.

Always respect trail closures; they're often put in place to protect wildlife habitats or prevent erosion damage.

Remember: cyclists must yield right-of-way to pedestrians and horseback riders at all times within this natural reserve area.

Check local regulations before your visit since rules may change depending upon seasonality or specific conservation efforts underway.

Lastly, always carry water during rides because hydration stations might not be readily available throughout these scenic routes.
Geocaching
Unearth hidden treasures in the heart of majestic redwoods. Geocaching here is a thrilling blend of hiking, navigation and treasure hunting.

Discover caches stashed along scenic trails or tucked away near ancient trees. Each cache offers unique trinkets for trade - remember to bring your own!

Navigate through towering forests using GPS coordinates provided by fellow geocachers online; it's like an adventurous scavenger hunt with nature as your playground.

Challenge yourself on more difficult routes that require off-trail exploration and climbing – perfect for seasoned adventurers seeking adrenaline-pumping excitement!

For families, there are easier options too: enjoy gentle hikes while searching for easily accessible caches filled with kid-friendly goodies. It’s educational fun wrapped up in adventure!

Remember to respect park rules during this exciting quest: don't disturb wildlife or vegetation, leave no trace behind except footprints...and maybe some new swag inside found caches!

So grab those walking boots and embark on a memorable journey into the wilds where natural beauty meets high-tech hide-and-seek.
Fishing
The park offers fishing in the San Lorenzo River, home to steelhead trout and coho salmon. A valid California fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 or older. The best time to fish is during winter months when these species migrate upstream from the ocean.
California
66

HENRY COWELL REDWOODS STATE PARK

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