Tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains in Felton, just outside of Santa Cruz, a visit to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Roaring Camp Railroads feels like stepping into another world. Towering redwoods, old-fashioned steam trains, and quiet forest trails make this one of the most charming and easy day trips on California’s Central Coast.
Roaring Camp Railroads Guide
Start your day at Roaring Camp Railroads, a historic logging-era themed village that brings the past to life. The centerpiece here is the Railroad Forest Steam Train Tour, a narrow-gauge steam train that chugs its way up Bear Mountain through dense redwood forest.
The ride is slow in the best way. As the whistle echoes through the trees, you’ll pass towering trunks, shaded ravines, and glimpses of wildlife. The conductors shares bits of history along the way, giving you a feel for what logging life was like in the 1800s. It’s relaxing, a little nostalgic, and surprisingly peaceful.
Lunch and a Stroll
After your train ride, stick around the camp for lunch. There’s a casual picnic area where you can bring your own food, or you can grab something simple from the on-site options. Nothing fancy, but it fits the setting.
Take some time to wander the grounds after eating. The old buildings, small shops, and open space make it easy to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere.
Feed the Ducks
If you’re visiting with kids, it’s especially fun to feed the ducks by the pond. One of the shops sells appropriate duck feed for $4.
Henry Cowell Redwoods
Just a few minutes walk, you’ll find Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, home to some of the most accessible old-growth redwoods in California.
Visitor Center
Start at the visitor center to get your bearings. There are helpful exhibits about the ecosystem, the history of the park, and the incredible life cycle of coast redwoods. It’s a quick stop, but it adds context to everything you’ll see on the trails.
Redwood Grove Loop Trail
The highlight of the park is the Redwood Grove Loop Trail, an easy, mostly flat walk that takes you right into the heart of the forest. This short loop is packed with massive trees, some over 1,500 years old.
As you walk, you’ll notice how quiet it gets. The canopy filters the light, the air cools down, and everything feels still in a way that’s hard to describe.
The Trees
The redwoods here are the real stars. Some are incredibly wide, others stretch so high you can’t quite see the top. Look for trees with fire scars, hollowed trunks, and unique shapes that tell stories of centuries past.
Banana Slugs
Keep an eye on the forest floor and you might spot a banana slug slowly making its way along the trail. Bright yellow and surprisingly large, they’re a quirky and iconic part of the ecosystem.
They may not be fast, but they’re fascinating to watch and a reminder of how diverse the forest really is.
Tips for Visiting
A little planning goes a long way in making your trip even better:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. Even easy trails can be uneven with roots and dirt paths. Although I did just fine in my slip-on flats.
- Bring layers. The redwood forest stays cool, even on warm days.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds and parking stress.
- Pack water and snacks if you plan to spend a few hours exploring.
And one important tip you don’t want to ignore: watch out for poison oak. It grows along many trails in the area. Stick to marked paths and avoid brushing up against plants with shiny leaves that grow in clusters of three.
A day at Roaring Camp Railroads and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is equal parts relaxing and memorable. Between the ride on the steam train and the quiet awe of the redwood grove, it’s the kind of outing that makes you slow down and appreciate California’s natural beauty.
What To Do Nearby
Santa Cruz
There is just so much to do at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk! From amusement park rides to boardwalk games and arcade games, plus miniature golf, laser tag, and bowling, not to mention the beautiful beach and so much delicious, over-the-top food to eat!
If you’re planning a trip to Santa Cruz, be sure to include a visit to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for some fun!
Read More: 15 Fun Things to Do at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
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Monterey Bay Aquarium
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of California’s most memorable coastal experiences, offering a close-up look at the incredible marine life of Monterey Bay. From mesmerizing jellyfish and playful sea otters to massive kelp forest exhibits that sway like an underwater forest, every gallery feels immersive and thoughtfully designed. Set right on historic Cannery Row, the aquarium blends education with awe, making it just as enjoyable for adults as it is for kids.
Big Sur
If you’re craving a place that feels both wild and peaceful, Big Sur delivers in a way few destinations can. With dramatic cliffs dropping into the Pacific, a winding drive along Highway 1, and quiet redwood groves that seem frozen in time, Big Sur has a way of slowing you down and reminding you how beautiful the world can be.
Read More: 12 Incredible Things to Do in Big Sur, California
Read More: What to Know About McWay Falls in Big Sur Before You Go
