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Expert Review of Big Basin Redwoods State Park

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Parks and Outdoors Review of Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Away Travel Expert: Ann Marie Brown

Parks Expert Favorite
ParksExpert Rating Recommended for:
Birding,Camping,Day Hiking

Parks and OutdoorsExpert Tips & Helpful Hints

• Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a shady redwood-filled haven where city-weary folks go to escape the heat and hurry-scurry of Santa Cruz and San Jose. The park's campgrounds are so popular that advance reservations are a requirement in the summer months. In addition to the typical tent and RV sites, the park has 35 tent cabins with cots and wood stoves.
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park was established in 1902 as California's first state park, and it remains one of the finest. The park's most popular trail is the 10.6-mile round-trip to Berry Creek Falls, a photogenic 60-foot cataract surrounded by dense redwoods. Two other waterfalls, Silver and Golden, lie only 1.5 miles farther. You can complete a 12-mile loop and see all three.
• Mountain bikers are permitted to ride on some fire roads in the park. A favorite of families and beginning riders is the Skyline to the Sea Trail from the coast at Waddell Beach to the vicinity of Berry Creek Falls. Bring a bike lock so you can chain up your bike and walk the final stretch to the glistening falls.