Hiking to Berry Creek Falls at Big Basin Redwoods State Park in Santa Cruz, California

Destinations West California Santa Cruz, California

Hiking to Berry Creek Falls at Big Basin Redwoods State Park in Santa Cruz, California

Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California’s oldest state park, offers hikers an awe-inspiring experience with its towering redwoods and lush landscapes. Among its most iconic trails, the Berry Creek Falls Loop is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. This 10.5-mile round-trip hike showcases not only some of the best waterfalls in the Santa Cruz Mountains but also the tranquility and grandeur of the coastal redwood ecosystem unique to this region.

Adventure Guide to Hiking to Berry Creek Falls at Big Basin Redwoods State Park

The Berry Creek Falls: This picturesque waterfall stands at approximately 65 feet tall, cascading down moss-covered rocks into a serene pool below. The view of the falls is remarkable, with mist rising gently from the rushing water, creating an enchanting atmosphere, especially in the spring when water flow is at its peak. It's an ideal spot for a short rest and photo break.
Trail Highlights: Starting from the park’s headquarters, the loop passes through awe-inspiring groves of old-growth redwoods, such as the iconic "Mother of the Forest." Additionally, the trail leads you to two other waterfalls—Silver Falls and Golden Cascade—both unique in their beauty. Silver Falls features tiered rock formations, while Golden Cascade resembles liquid amber tumbling over smoother rocks.
Unique Flora and Fauna: The trail is home to diverse plant and animal life. Expect to see sword ferns, mossy logs, and occasional sightings of banana slugs, a species often associated with the park. Birdwatchers may spot Steller’s Jays or Pileated Woodpeckers along the way.

Local Insights

Big Basin Redwoods was established in 1902, making it steeped in history. The redwoods along this trail can reach over 1,000 years old, standing as living relics from the time when coastal redwood forests were abundant throughout California.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Winter and spring are ideal to see the falls at their fullest. Weekdays and early mornings minimize crowds.
What To Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, and layers for weather changes.
Getting There: From Santa Cruz, take Highway 9 toward Boulder Creek, then follow signs to the park. The drive is about 45 minutes.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Naomi Hsu5 years ago

Taken counter-clockwise (Sunset Trail—>Berry Creek Falls Trail—>Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail), the Berry Creek Falls loop is ~11 shaded, moderately-sloped miles of towering Redwoods and babbling brooks, with a charming series of waterfalls: Golden Cascade, Silver Falls, and the endlessly mesmerizing Berry Creek Falls.

chad parker4 years ago

Had a great hike. I did the extended loop and it was exhausting yet refreshing. Being amidst the great redwoods we much needed in the tough time we are in. Being lots of water, get there early. They we charging $10 cash, exact change for parking.

Anup Patil6 years ago

An MidSize fresh waterfalls which is worth the hike from the redwood headquarters. The hike is about 4.5 mile from the HQ and 11 mile for the round trip. Requires 5-6 hours for the complete hike and the falls is worth it one can find multiple small water falls on the way. There are benches near the waterfalls for one to rest. All in all a very beautiful waterfalls to visit if your body can make it.

Tina Nguyen4 years ago

I was here in 6/11/20. The park is finally open back. $10 parking fee. Since the COVID -19 has caused most of the trails to be one way. It add up the distance of waterfalls loop trail couple miles longer. Great workout, my watched was 12 miles, 3,000 ft of the elevation change, and finished in 6 hours. I was so worried in the first mile,but when I followed the sign said “ONE WAY“ it became much easier, since only one way to go,and it was perfect to building a distance with another hiker. It was gorgeous but definitely challenging. The Berry Creek falls, Sempervirens falls, Silver falls, and Golden falls are spectacular views. Stunning views of ancient redwoods, and thousands of ferns lining on the forest floor. It was not “strenuous“but hiking boots, mosquito spray, plenty water, food are need for this hike. This is the place to take a lot of pictures.... leave only footprints. Happy hike folks.

Madhura Gandhi4 years ago

Amazing loop. The hike has gentle elevation throughout, big redwood trees offering lots of shade. Very less water in the falls at this time of year, yet a wonderful hike. We also saw a cute tree looking like groot on the way! Nice visitor centre near the trail head.

Hiking

Hiking the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail at Big Basin Redwoods State Park in Santa Cruz, California

Hiking

Hiking to Berry Creek Falls at Big Basin Redwoods State Park in Santa Cruz, California