Hiking the Forest of Nisene Marks in Santa Cruz, California

Destinations West California Santa Cruz, California

Hiking the Forest of Nisene Marks in Santa Cruz, California

The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, located just minutes from downtown Santa Cruz, offers hikers a tranquil escape into the heart of California’s redwood wilderness. Spanning over 10,000 acres, this park is celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere, towering second-growth redwoods, and varied trail options that appeal to both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. It holds significant local value, showcasing the regeneration of nature in a former logging region. For Santa Cruz locals and visitors alike, this park provides a perfect setting to reconnect with the area’s natural beauty.

Adventure Guide to Hiking the Forest of Nisene Marks

Aptos Creek Trail to the Five Finger Falls
This scenic hike is approximately 10 miles round trip and features shaded redwood groves, lush ferns, and the satisfying endpoint of Five Finger Falls. The falls themselves are a modest yet enchanting series of cascades, perfect for photography or a break before heading back. The trail offers moderate difficulty and is popular among hikers seeking a longer trek.
The Old Mill Site Trail
Perfect for history buffs or those looking for a short, manageable hike, this 1.2-mile loop leads to the remains of the old logging mill. Along the way, interpretive signs provide a glimpse into the park’s logging history. A picnic area nearby allows visitors to relax post-hike amidst the serene forest.
Maple Falls via Bridge Creek Trail
Maple Falls is a highlight for many park visitors. This 8.5-mile round-trip hike involves stepping stones across streams and scrambling over tree roots, making it an adventurous yet doable option. The stunning waterfall at the trail’s end is worth the journey, especially in the wetter months when the water flow is strongest.

Local Insights

The Forest of Nisene Marks was named after Nisene Marks, a matriarch of the Marks family who once owned the land.
The park’s second-growth redwoods grew after extensive logging in the late 1800s to early 1900s.

Visitor Tips

Best Times: Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and vibrant greenery.
What to Bring: Sturdy shoes, layered clothing, water, and snacks.
Directions: From Santa Cruz, drive 15 minutes south on Highway 1 to the Aptos Creek Road entrance.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Luis Padilla6 months ago

Awesome place with great views. I love coming here for summer hikes because the area is full of shade regardless of what trail you are on. Theres plenty of picnic areas and trails that are easy to fairly difficult to complete. My favorite trail is Moses Spring Trail to Maple Falls, this is a there and back trail with some challenging areas. Not sure if the trail is accessible year round because some of the hike goes through the creek but it was fairly nice in the summer! Park fee is only $8 for day use.

Anusha Paramesvaran6 months ago

Wonderful state park to hike and spend the day. Very pet friendly and easy trails. The water feels amazing!! Our pup enjoyed every single second of the walk.

Lei Yue4 months ago

Great place for hiking and biking. After entering the entrance, drive as far as you can until the car can't go any further, because the beginning section of the road is bumpy and dusty. There are lots of shade trees and it's very cool. It was a bit cold when you first arrived. Follow the creek to the waterfall. The trail is a bit challenging in some places.

Tifany Babcock2 months ago

A beautiful place to walk amongst the redwoods, or meander by the river. Either way, you should be happy! The trails are well maintained and our dog LOVED the outing. It has a lot to offer. There are lots of trails to choose, whether you are mountain biking or walking a dog. Definitely coming back!

Shannon Thomas2 months ago

Another beautiful park in California to explore from many different levels I cluding walking, running, biking and hiking. Great for everyone, including dogs. Very similar to Mt. Madonna. Highly recommend. Bring a jacket just in case.