The best walks and hikes around Scotts Valley

Yes, some areas are great for hiking with your dog. The West Glenwood Open Space Preserve offers about four miles of pet-friendly, multi-use trails through forests and grasslands. However, please note that dogs are not permitted on the East Glenwood trails to protect sensitive habitats. Always check park-specific regulations before you go, as many trails in state parks like Henry Cowell have restrictions on where dogs can go.

Scotts Valley has several options for families or those looking for a gentle walk. The Hiking loop from Whispering Pines is a short, easy route. Additionally, Lodato Park is a local favorite for a quick, shaded loop that's less than an hour long. In the nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, the Pine Trail is a well-regarded family-friendly option that leads to an observation deck.

While the area is best known for easy and moderate trails, you can find more challenging options by combining trails or seeking out routes with more elevation gain. For a longer, more strenuous outing, consider exploring the extensive trail networks within Wilder Ranch State Park or the deeper sections of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which offer more rugged terrain and significant climbs.

Yes, loop trails are very common around Scotts Valley, allowing you to enjoy a varied journey without retracing your steps. Many popular routes are designed as loops, such as the Hiking loop from Monte Fiore, which takes you through a mix of forest and open space. Both Glenwood Open Space Preserve and Lodato Park feature well-marked loop trails.

The landscape is a beautiful mix of serene redwood groves, evergreen forests, and sunny, rolling grasslands. In spring, the hillsides can be covered in wildflowers like California poppies and lupine. As for wildlife, it's possible to see deer, bobcats, and various birds like hawks. The area is also a habitat for protected species, including the Ohlone tiger beetle.

While most trails are nestled within the valley and forests, some routes offer glimpses of Monterey Bay from higher elevations. The Pine Trail in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park has an observation deck with panoramic vistas. For more direct coastal views, the trails at the highly-rated Wilder Ranch State Park, a short drive away, run right along the ocean bluffs.

Hiking is possible year-round. Spring (March to May) is spectacular for wildflowers, especially in the open grasslands of Glenwood Preserve. Summer can be warm on exposed trails, so early morning starts are recommended. Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful light, while winter brings lush, green landscapes after the rains, though trails can be muddy.

Glenwood Open Space Preserve features over seven miles of well-maintained trails. The West side has multi-use trails suitable for hiking and dog walking, winding through redwood forests and prairies. The East side has more rolling hills and is reserved for hikers only (no dogs or bikes) to protect endangered species and accommodate cattle grazing. Trails are a mix of shaded paths and open, sunny sections.

Most major trailheads have designated parking areas. Lodato Park has a small lot at its entrance, which can fill up on weekends. Glenwood Open Space Preserve has parking for both its East and West sections. For popular destinations like Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, it's best to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is limited and may require a state park fee.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the diversity of the landscape, from the majestic trees in the redwood groves to the expansive views from the rolling hills. The well-marked paths and the accessibility of trails for different fitness levels are also frequently mentioned.

While Scotts Valley is known more for its redwood forests and grasslands, you can find waterfalls in the greater Santa Cruz Mountains area, especially after winter rains. The Fall Creek Unit of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, accessible from nearby Felton, features trails that follow creeks and have small, seasonal waterfalls. These are typically more impressive during the wet season.