The best hikes from bus stations in Big Creek Forests
4.7
(224)
2,709
hikers
5
hikes
Bus Station hikes in Big Creek Forests offer access to diverse landscapes, including majestic redwood forests, meandering creeks, and canyons. The terrain varies from damp canyon bottoms to chaparral-covered slopes, encompassing oak woodlands and Douglas fir forests. Hikers can experience views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean from various points. This region provides a rich outdoor experience with varied ecosystems.
Best bus station hiking trails in Big Creek Forests
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Lime Kiln ruins ā Big Ben Tree loop from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a 7.9 miles (12.8 km) trail that takes 4 hours 3 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores redwood forests and historical lime kilns.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Shark Fin Cove ā Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport, an easy 4.2 miles (6.8 km) path. This trail offers coastal scenery and views of Shark Fin Cove.
- Local hikers also love the Lime Kiln ruins loop from Felton, a 4.6 miles (7.5 km) trail leading through forested areas and past historical sites, often completed in about 2 hours 26 minutes.
- Hiking in Big Creek Forests is defined by redwood groves, coastal views, and varied forest types, offering options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Big Creek Forests are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 220 reviews. More than 2500 hikers have used komoot to explore Big Creek Forests's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
3
hikers
3.36km
00:53
30m
30m
The Shark Fin Cove Loop offers a truly unique coastal experience, winding along dramatic bluffs and descending to a pristine beach. You'll be treated to inspiring views of the Pacific and the iconic "shark fin-shaped" rock formation that gives the cove its name. Keep an eye out for the fascinating sea cave, which is safely explorable at low tide, and enjoy the expansive birds-eye views from the bluffs.
This easy 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hike with only 100 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 53 minutes, making it a great option for a quick outing. However, the short descent to the beach is steep, rocky, and often slippery with loose sand, so careful footing is essential. There are no restrooms or amenities, so plan accordingly, and consider dressing in layers due to potential wind and fog.
Beyond the striking geology, the trail also crosses old, decommissioned railroad tracks, adding a touch of history to your journey. The area is known for its photography opportunities, especially at sunset when the golden light illuminates the rock formations. This trail is a fantastic choice for those seeking a memorable coastal adventure with a distinctive natural landmark.
7
hikers
4.07km
01:07
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
6.79km
01:48
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
140
hikers
7.49km
02:27
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
1
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Lime Kiln ruins within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park are still visible and are a cool site to check out when running by. If you like history, these ruins are a good excuse to take a break during your run.
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This place is named after an impressive rock formation that resembles a shark fin emerging from the ocean. It offers truly breathtaking views of the rock formations, beach, and the ocean.
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These stunning cliffs offer panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Davenport Beach below. While there is beach access, it can be treacherous, so it is recommended to enjoy the views from the safety of the cliffs.
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Discovering artwork displayed on these water tanks along the trail is a unique and delightful experience. The water tanks are continually repainted, so you can always look forward to a pleasant surprise in the form of new artwork.
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After crossing the trail tracks trail lead along the cliffs and along the tracks in both northern and southern directions. The cliff trails give superb views down to the coast, and an unmapped trail leads down to the beach cove.
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The Williams brothers bought a large piece of an old Spanish/Mexican Land grant in 1847 and over the next 10 years developed logging, saw mill, lime kiln, cattle and dairy operations with varying success. The landing was to ship products to markets in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, etc. An attempt to reconstruct the history is at https://history.santacruzpl.org/omeka/items/show/134516#
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Beautiful views from the trails along the cliffs, and here a sandy trail leads down to the beach
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The colorful village has great food and some resupply options. It's a great starting point for hikes along the coastal trail, with scenic views on the edge of tall cliffs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available in Big Creek Forests?
There are 4 dedicated hiking routes in Big Creek Forests that are easily accessible from bus stations. These include 2 easy and 2 moderate trails, offering options for various fitness levels.
Are there any easy hiking trails accessible by bus in Big Creek Forests?
Yes, Big Creek Forests offers several easy trails perfect for a relaxed outing from a bus stop. A great option is the Shark Fin Cove Loop, which is just over 3 km long. Another easy choice is the Shark Fin Cove ā Davenport Pier Overlook loop from Davenport, spanning about 6.8 km.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on bus-accessible hikes in Big Creek Forests?
Hikes from bus stations in Big Creek Forests will immerse you in diverse landscapes. You can expect to encounter majestic redwood forests, including both second-growth and some old-growth trees, meandering creeks, and canyons. Some trails offer spectacular views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, while others wind through oak woodlands and Douglas fir forests.
Are there any moderate hiking trails accessible by bus in Big Creek Forests?
Absolutely. For those looking for a bit more challenge, the Lime Kiln ruins ā Big Ben Tree loop from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a moderate 12.8 km route. Another moderate option is the Lime Kiln ruins loop from Felton, which covers about 7.5 km.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the bus-accessible trails in Big Creek Forests?
The trails in Big Creek Forests are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 224 reviews. Hikers often praise the immersive experience of walking among the towering redwoods, the peaceful atmosphere of the forest, and the convenience of accessing these natural wonders directly from public transport.
Are there any circular routes available from bus stations in Big Creek Forests?
Yes, several of the bus-accessible trails in Big Creek Forests are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same point without needing to retrace your steps. Examples include the Shark Fin Cove Loop and the Lime Kiln ruins loop from Felton.
What kind of wildlife might I see on a hike in Big Creek Forests?
Big Creek Forests are rich in wildlife. While hiking, you might spot deer, raccoons, and various bird species like dark-eyed juncos, acorn woodpeckers, and Steller's jays. Keep an eye out for western pond turtles near water sources. More elusive animals like bobcats and mountain lions also inhabit the area.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest along these bus-accessible routes?
While specific highlights are not detailed for these routes, the region itself is known for its iconic redwood trees, including some old-growth specimens. You can also explore areas showcasing forest recovery from past events like the Dolan Fire, observing how redwoods adapt and regrow. The Lime Kiln ruins are a historical point of interest on some trails.
Is it necessary to obtain permits for hiking in Big Creek Forests from bus stations?
Generally, day hiking in Big Creek Forests does not require specific permits for most public trails. However, it's always a good idea to check the latest regulations for specific parks or reserves you plan to visit, such as Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which can be found on the California State Parks website.
What is the best time of year to hike from bus stations in Big Creek Forests?
Big Creek Forests offer enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall provides pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is popular, but trails can be busy. Winter hiking is also an option, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, though some trails might be damp.
Are the bus-accessible trails in Big Creek Forests suitable for families?
Yes, many of the trails are suitable for families, especially the easy routes. The diverse landscapes, including redwood forests and creeks, provide an engaging environment for children. The shorter, easy loops like the Shark Fin Cove Loop are particularly good for families with younger children.
Most popular routes in Big Creek Forests
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