The Majestic Redwoods of Big Basin

Big Basin Redwoods State Park, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains near the California coast, is California’s oldest state park, established in 1902. Celebrated for its towering ancient coast redwoods, some surviving for over a thousand years, this park delivers a breathtaking glimpse into one of the world’s tallest and oldest forests. Standing beneath these giants, some reaching heights above 300 feet, visitors feel the incredible scale and age of this living natural monument.

The park’s landscape features lush valleys and canyon trails lined with thick ferns, wildflowers, and diverse plant life, creating a thriving habitat for deer, birds, and other forest wildlife. It's a remarkable site for witnessing nature's resilience; despite the CZU Lightning Complex fire of 2020 which affected most of the area, the redwoods have begun recovering impressively. Small brooks and dams enrich the scenic forest routes, adding quiet spots to rest among nature.

While many trails and the waterfall are temporarily closed or rerouted due to fire recovery efforts, visitors still enjoy varied hikes amid new growth and the glowing sunlight filtering through renewed forest layers. The park’s rich Native American heritage and ongoing conservation efforts add cultural depth to a visit. For those drawn to towering trees, serene forest sounds, and a peaceful break not far from the Bay Area, Big Basin remains a unique and memorable destination.