Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is close to Santa Cruz and is made up of 4,650 acres of protected forest. It is a great place to go outside any time of the year. Some of the world’s oldest and tallest redwood trees can be found in this Park.
Their impressive size and age leave tourists speechless. The Park is just a short drive from downtown Felton, with great trails and lots of nature to enjoy. With its self-guided nature walk, Redwood Grove is a great place to see hundreds of years old trees.
The Park also has diverse forests of Douglas fir, madrone, oak, and Ponderosa pines. Visitors can picnic by the beautiful San Lorenzo River, fish for steelhead and salmon, explore the Park’s nature centre, and peruse its gift shops. In addition, the Fall Creek region is home to over 20 miles of trails perfect for avid hikers. The Park’s tallest tree is an incredible 285 feet tall, and its oldest trees are between 1,400 and 1,800.
History of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Henry Cowell’s illustrious past at Redwoods State Park goes back to 1821, when Mexico won its freedom from Spain. From 1821 to 1846, Mexico ruled the area where the Park is now.
During this time, the land was split into pieces called Land Grants. Some of the ones that were created were called Rancho Carbonera, Rancho Zayante, and Rancho Rincon. These Land Grants helped Europeans settle in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Knowing this history provides the Park’s natural beauty and ancient redwoods meaning and appeal.
Fishing At Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Steelhead and salmon can be caught in the San Lorenzo River at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park between November and February. The California Department of Fish and Game is in charge of this activity. They decide when the fishing season is and make sure everyone has a current fishing license.
You can only fish for Steelhead and Salmon, and you can’t fish for anything else. Park guards and DFG wardens ensure that the fishing rules are followed so that anglers who visit the Park can fish safely and enjoyably.
Powder Mill Trail at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park:
The trailhead and parking lot for the Powder Mill Trail are in the southeast part of the Park, just north of Sims Road on Graham Hill Road. This trailhead gives access to several trails, and horse trailers are allowed so that people can ride their horses on the paths.
You’ll find the Rincon Fire Road and parking area located on the Park’s southern edge, three miles from the entrance. These facilities allow hikers and equestrian riders greater options to reach the Park’s routes.
Ox Trail at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
On the western side of the Park, approximately 1.4 miles south of the main entrance, you’ll find the trailhead and parking area for the Ox Trail. They are along Highway 9.
This trailhead makes it easy to get to the Ox Trail, allowing tourists to see the natural beauty of the western part of the Park. Whether people are walking or hiking along this road, they can take in the peace and quiet of the area and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Redwood Grove Trail at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
The Redwood Grove Trail is a wonderful, user-friendly loop through a beautiful forest of giant redwoods. This easy, flat walk takes you deep into the redwood forest and lets you enjoy the peace. At the halfway point, there are bathrooms that make it easy for tourists to stay comfortable while they explore.
The trail floor is smooth and well-kept, so wheelchairs and strollers can use it. You can buy self-guided handouts at the Nature Centre for 25 cents, making your visit more interesting.
Address: Felton, CA 95018, United States
Phone: +1 831-335-4598
Email: HenryCowellRedwoods@parks.ca.gov
Management: California State Parks
Established: 1953
