By Lily Bourne
Throughout my 17 years in the Bay Area, I’ve embarked on many adventures through the unique landscape, spending countless hours immersed in redwoods and manzanita trees. To help others enjoy the incredible place where we live, I’ve compiled some of my favorite local hikes around the Bay, arranged from closest to farthest (from Westmont)!
Villa Montalvo (15-minute drive): The closest hike to my house, Montalvo features lush green foliage almost year round. The steep hike uphill rewards adventurers with an amazing view of the Bay Area from above.
Bear Creek Redwoods (20-minute drive): An underground pick, Bear Creek’s towering redwoods and running creeks make for a relaxing walk in the Santa Cruz mountains away from distractions. I especially recommend going during the wet season, when the rain brings the bright green moss to life.
Sanborn County Park (20-minute drive): Sanborn’s creeks, redwoods, and banana slugs make this hike the perfect getaway relatively close to home. You can even hike over the pond and try to spot a turtle or duck in the reeds!
Castle Rock (30-minute drive): Castle Rock’s views are unmatched, you can even see the ocean on a clear day! A popular spot for tourists and locals alike, Castle Rock’s unique outcroppings and cliffside trails attract many hikers. I recommend visiting in the fall for some beautiful foliage as the leaves change colors!
Rancho Cañada Del Oro (35-minute drive): A little farther south, Rancho Canada’s hikes are perfect for the sunset or sunrise and provide a view of lush rolling hills and valleys. I especially love visiting in the spring, when green grass and wildflowers cover the hills and the creek fills with water.
Russian Ridge (40-minute drive): True to its name, Russian Ridge features a hike along the Santa Cruz mountain ridgeline, weaving through the grassy hills with a clear view of the Pacific Ocean. The only downside is that it gets pretty windy up there, so don’t forget a jacket!
Henry Cowell (40-minute drive): A popular spot for Santa Cruz and Felton locals, Henry Cowell sports diverse tree species, transitioning from redwoods to manzanitas as the trail elevation increases. At the top, hikers have a 360-view of the Bay Area and the Pacific Ocean!
Henry Coe (1-hour drive): Although the drive might be lengthy, Henry Coe’s views of the Bay Area are unmatched. The park has a myriad of hike lengths and difficulties, ranging from quick strolls to backpacking adventures. I highly recommend bringing a meal and finding the picnic bench overlooking the valley for a picnic adventure!
