Big Basin is currently closed following damage sustained in the 2020 wildfires
Boulder Creek
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Description: Big Basin offers 37 miles of dirt trails in a coast redwood rain forest. All trails have a very low technical difficulty, but some trails have steeper climbs. Of the 37 miles, 13 miles of these trails are either interspersed with paved roads or are dead-end trails that stop at the park boundary where they enter private property. Our recommended routes encompass the remaining 24 miles. The Easy Ride, an out and back route with only 700 feet of climb, starts at the Pacific Ocean and climbs very gently over the course of 5.6 miles. This is a great beginner trail. The 1000 Footer and the Big Ride both start at the Park Headquarters and visitors center, taking in trails that form the main loop through the redwood groves of the park.
Although a flight from Downtown San Jose to Big Basin would only be 20 miles, there is no direct road to Big Basin and actual driving time to either of the entrances where the recommended rides start is over 1 hour from Downtown San Jose. Also, Big Basin was heavily damaged in the lighting complex wildfires of 2020. Always check for park and trail closures. Restrooms are at the Park Headquarters and visitors center, and at Waddell Canyon entrance.
In the wet season: Trails are open.
Directions: The main entrance, where the 1000 Footer and Big Ride begin, is on State Route 238, 9 miles west of Boulder Creek. A link to the parking location ifor the 1000 Footer and Big Ride n Google Maps is here. The Waddell Creek entrance, where the Easy Ride begins, is on State Route 1, 16 miles north of Santa Cruz. A link to the parking location for the Easy Ride is here.