Maple in the Redwoods

Hike to Maple Falls in Nisene State Park in Santa Cruz Mountains

Over the creek and through the redwoods you’ll go, on this 9-mile (round-trip) partial loop hike in the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park. This hike is loaded with charms, but the big riches come from viewing Maple Falls, a 30-foot stunner framed by, well, maple trees! Start at George’s Picnic Area and follow Aptos Creek Road to Loma Prieta Grade. Here the trail narrows as you go through a canopy of towering redwoods, the acoustics of Aptos Creek lending peaceful sounds as you hike. At the fork, keep left to stay on Loma Prieta Grade towards Hoffman’s Historic Site, once home to loggers and mill workers. Follow the trail all the way to Bridge Creek Historic Site. From the sign, head upstream to get to Maple Falls.

The trek isn’t far, but it’s challenging because you have to cross Bridge Creek about a dozen times as you head deeper into the canyon. (Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet!) You’ll pass a smaller waterfall along the way, but keep going to the back of the fern-spotted canyon for the marquee attraction: Maple Falls gushing into the creek by way of a large mossy rock face, splashing into a pool surrounded by lush greenery. This cascade in the redwoods goes strong after rain, and sounds it out loud, too! To finish the hike, head back down Bridge Creek but this time stay left at the fork and take Bridge Creek Trail to eventually loop back to Loma Prieta Grade.

From Hwy. 1 in Aptos take State Park Dr. northeast (away from the ocean). Turn right onto Soquel Dr., and left onto Aptos Creek Rd. Parking in George’s Picnic Area is $8. When the winter gate is open, parking at Porter Family Picnic Area shortens the loop by 2 miles; however, if the winter gate is closed you’ll have to park at George’s Picnic Area and hike in from there. No dogs.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View
  2. Screaming Good Garden

    Combine a classic scary movie backdrop and life-size elephant garden sculptures in beautiful downtown Sonoma.

    View
  3. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View
  4. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View
  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View
  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View