Attractions and Places To See around Felton - Top 20

Felton is renowned for its ancient redwood forests, particularly within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Here, you can marvel at towering trees, including the unique Cathedral Redwoods, which grow in circular formations. The park also features the rare Santa Cruz Sandhills habitat and the picturesque San Lorenzo River. Beyond the redwoods, the coastline offers stunning natural arches at Natural Bridges State Beach and the iconic Needle Rock.

Yes, Felton boasts several significant historical landmarks. The Felton Covered Bridge, built in 1892, is a historic Brown truss bridge spanning the San Lorenzo River and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can also experience a nostalgic journey through the redwoods on the historic narrow-gauge steam trains at Roaring Camp Railroads. Additionally, the Fremont Tree has a historical association with an 1846 expedition.

Families will find plenty to enjoy. Exploring the redwood forests at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, including the Fremont Tree and Cathedral Redwoods, is a popular choice. The Roaring Camp Railroads offer an exciting train ride through the redwoods. Coastal attractions like Natural Bridges State Beach and the Santa Cruz Lighthouse are also great for all ages. For more adventurous families, Mount Hermon Adventures provides ziplining and canopy tours.

The area around Felton offers numerous hiking opportunities, primarily within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Popular trails include the Redwood Grove Loop, which allows you to walk among ancient redwoods, and the Fall Creek Unit, offering over 20 miles of rugged trails through second-growth forests to old lime kilns. For more detailed routes and options, you can explore the Hiking around Felton guide.

Yes, the Santa Cruz Lighthouse is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering scenic views from the coastal bluffs. While many natural areas may have varied terrain, some main paths in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park are generally accessible, though it's always best to check specific trail conditions beforehand.

Felton is enjoyable year-round, but the best time often depends on your interests. For hiking and outdoor activities, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures. If you're hoping to see monarch butterflies, they typically gather at Natural Bridges State Beach during the winter months. Summer is popular for enjoying the coastal attractions and warmer weather.

Beyond the natural beauty, Felton has some unique cultural spots. Hallcrest Vineyards, a historic winery, offers tastings of organic wines and ciders. For something truly different, the Bigfoot Discovery Museum presents intriguing exhibits related to the elusive creature. The Felton Music Hall also hosts regular musical acts, and the San Lorenzo Valley Museum provides insights into local history.

In addition to hiking, you can find opportunities for running and gravel biking. Mount Hermon Adventures offers thrilling ziplining and canopy tours through the redwood forest. For specific routes and guides for these activities, check out the Running Trails around Felton and Gravel biking around Felton guides.

For easy and beginner-friendly hikes, the Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is an excellent choice. It's a relatively flat and well-maintained path that allows you to experience the grandeur of the redwoods without strenuous effort. The Hiking around Felton guide also lists several easy routes, such as 'Bear Mountain via Ox Trail'.

Visitors frequently highlight the awe-inspiring experience of being among the giant redwoods, particularly the unique formations like the Cathedral Redwoods. The historical significance of sites like the Fremont Tree and the scenic beauty of coastal spots like Natural Bridges State Beach are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the blend of natural exploration and historical discovery the region offers.

Yes, within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, the Henry Cowell Redwoods Observation Deck, situated on a sandhill 805 feet above sea level, provides expansive views of the Santa Cruz coastline and surrounding mountains. Coastal highlights like Natural Bridges State Beach and Needle Rock also offer stunning ocean vistas.