TOP 30 Hiking and biking trails in Aptos, California

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Santa Cruz Bike Tours, located in Aptos, California, offers daily biking and hiking adventures along the stunning Santa Cruz Coast and through the enchanting redwood forests. With breathtaking views and abundant wildlife sightings, such as sea lions, Monarch Butterflies, and pelicans, our tours provide a unique and memorable experience for all. Our tours, created by our guest Kendall Asper, include stops at famous attractions like the Whale Skeletons and Saturday Farmers Market. We provide everything you need for a fantastic day out, including bikes, helmets, water, snacks, binoculars, and an experienced guide. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride along the coast to Wilder Ranch or a more challenging trail through the Forest of Nisene Marks, we have the perfect tour for you. Additionally, our Beer & Wine bike tours offer the opportunity to sample the best local brews along the coast, with the option to have lunch served with your tastings.

The Entrance Station is a local government office located at 664-784 Aptos Creek Fire Road in Aptos, California, United States. This station serves as the gateway to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, a beautiful natural retreat in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors can enjoy picnicking near Aptos Creek, hiking, jogging, or biking on 30 miles of trails that wind through the park's redwood forest. The park is a testament to regeneration, as the land has healed itself after being clear-cut during a logging frenzy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The park is named after Nisene Marks, a nature-loving mother whose family donated the land to the state in the 1960s with the stipulation that it never be developed. Visitors can learn about the park's history, wildlife, and conservation efforts through guided hikes, interpretive talks, and volunteer trail crew opportunities. The park also offers naturalist-led backpacking trips and educational programs for the public. There is an $8 vehicle day-use fee to enter the park, and certain restrictions apply to bicycles, dogs, and horses in specific areas of the park. The Entrance Station provides information on park rules, fees, and upcoming events, making it a valuable resource for visitors looking to explore The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park.

Welcome to Margaret’s Bridge, a serene gateway nestled in the heart of The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, located at Loma Prieta Grade, Aptos, California. Just four miles north of Aptos on Aptos Creek Road, our park offers a tranquil escape from the bustling towns and beaches near Highway 1, Santa Cruz. Explore the lush second- and third-growth redwood forests that rise from sea level to the steep coastal mountains, offering over 30 miles of rugged trails perfect for hiking, jogging, or biking. Whether you're picnicking near Aptos Creek or embarking on a guided hike, Margaret’s Bridge promises a refreshing retreat for nature lovers.

Welcome to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park Nestled just four miles north of Aptos on Aptos Creek Road, The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is a hidden gem and a refreshing retreat from the bustling towns and beaches along Highway 1 near Santa Cruz, California. This captivating park sprawls across a dense redwood forest, rising from near sea level to the steep coastal mountains, offering a unique semi-wilderness experience for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Welcome to Porter Family Picnic Area Nestled within the serene beauty of The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, the Porter Family Picnic Area offers a tranquil retreat for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Located just four miles north of Aptos on Aptos Creek Road in Aptos, California, this picturesque area is a perfect escape from the bustling towns and beaches along Highway 1 near Santa Cruz.

Welcome to Lone Tree, an enchanting gateway to The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, located at Aptos Creek Fire Road, Aptos, California. Nestled just four miles north of Aptos, this park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby towns and beaches along Highway 1 near Santa Cruz. Immerse yourself in the lush beauty of second- and third-growth redwoods that stretch from sea level to the dramatic coastal mountains. Visitors can enjoy 30 miles of trails ideal for hiking, jogging, or biking through a rugged semi-wilderness landscape. The park is a testament to nature’s resilience, with its redwood forest gradually healing since the logging era ended in 1923. Today, The Forest of Nisene Marks stands as a monument to regeneration, honoring its namesake, Nisene Marks, whose family generously donated the land to the state in 1963.