The best walks and hikes around Felton

Yes, but options within the state parks are limited. Dogs on leash are generally permitted in picnic areas, campgrounds, and on paved roads, but are not allowed on the main trails within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, including the Redwood Grove Loop and the Fall Creek Unit. For more extensive dog-friendly hiking, you may need to explore trails in nearby open space preserves outside the state park boundaries.

The most accessible and popular family walk is the Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. It's a flat, 0.9-mile path that is perfect for all ages and offers an incredible experience among ancient, giant redwood trees. Another great option is the View of the Teme Valley – Redwood Grove loop from Hope-under-Dinmore, a gentle walk that is well-suited for a family outing.

The trails within the Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park are an excellent choice for hot days. The dense canopy of second-growth redwoods and Douglas firs provides ample shade, and the paths often follow the cool, meandering Fall Creek. These trails are a local favorite for escaping the heat.

Parking is available at the main entrance to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park off N Big Trees Park Rd, which serves the Redwood Grove and main park area. For the Fall Creek Unit, there is a separate, smaller parking area on Felton Empire Road. This lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is highly recommended.

While the main draw of the area is the redwood forests, the creeks and streams can create small, seasonal cascades, especially after rainfall. The trails within the Fall Creek Unit offer the best chance to see water features as you hike alongside the creek, but there are no major, named waterfalls directly on the main trails.

The main area of Henry Cowell, particularly the Redwood Grove, features flat, easy trails through old-growth redwoods. In contrast, the Fall Creek Unit offers a more rugged experience with over 20 miles of trails through a second-growth forest. The terrain here is more varied, with moderate elevation changes, making it better for those seeking a more challenging hike.

Yes, you can get panoramic views that include the coastline from the Observation Deck in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The trail to the deck takes you through a unique sandhill habitat and rewards you with expansive views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean in the distance.

A popular hike in the Fall Creek Unit leads to the ruins of a 19th-century lime kiln. The St John's Church, Pencombe – Hegdon Hill Trig Point loop from Little Cowarne is a great route that combines natural scenery with a glimpse into the area's industrial past. You can also see the historic Felton Covered Bridge, built in 1892, which is now part of a community park.

There are over 40 designated hiking routes around Felton, offering a wide variety of experiences. These range from easy, flat loops perfect for families to more moderate trails with significant elevation gain, ensuring options for all skill levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the awe-inspiring redwood forests, the well-maintained and clearly marked paths, and the peaceful atmosphere found along the shaded, creek-side trails.

It's best to wear layers. Even on a warm day, the temperature inside the redwood groves can be significantly cooler. Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended, especially for the uneven terrain in the Fall Creek Unit. Always bring water, and consider packing a map, as cell service can be unreliable in the canyons.

Yes, Felton has many excellent loop trails, which are perfect for exploring without having to backtrack. A great example is the View of the Countryside loop from Felton, an easy 4-mile circuit that offers a pleasant mix of forest and open scenery.