The Highpoints of Nisene Marks State Park

Details: Strenuous Hike! Sand Point Overlook via West Ridge & Aptos Creek Loop. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, Aptos, CA

Join the us for an unforgettable and challenging loop through one of the Santa Cruz Mountains' most beautiful and historically significant redwood preserves. This strenuous route is the perfect opportunity to push your limits, breathe the cleanest air in California, and earn a reward of truly sweeping coastal views.

This exceptional custom loop combines the best of The Forest of Nisene Marks, tracing both exhilarating single-track trails and wide, scenic fire roads.

What to Expect:

The Ascent: West Ridge Challenge: We begin on the legendary West Ridge Trail, known as the steepest and most physically demanding path in the park. This is where you'll find your Sierra Club strength, climbing through dense, moss-covered redwood and mixed evergreen forest, often feeling miles away from civilization.

The Reward: Sand Point Overlook: Our climb culminates at the spectacular Sand Point Overlook, which offers one of the most expansive panoramic views in Santa Cruz County. From this lofty vantage point, we will enjoy lunch and fellowship while taking in breathtaking scenes of the Monterey Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding green ridges.

The Descent: History and Redwoods: The return route follows sections of the historical Aptos Creek Fire Road, an old logging railroad grade built over a century ago. This shaded descent provides a break for the legs and immerses us in the regenerating second-growth redwood forest. Along the way, we'll pass near the famed epicenter of the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, connecting us to the powerful natural history of the land the Sierra Club works to preserve.

This is a quintessential Santa Cruz mountain experience—steep climbs, deep redwood shade, historical intrigue, and ocean views guaranteed to reset your spirit.

★★★ Note: This is not an official Sierra Club outing. Everyone is welcome to join ★★★

When / Where to meet: We will meet at the West Ridge Trailhead. GPS map link below. There are parking spots before and after along the side of the road or at the picnic area just north. There is a $10 fee at the gate below.

Route: 15.6 miles, 2825’ Elevation Gain. Per Alltrails.

Bring: Hiking shoes with good traction, sunscreen, bug repellent, plenty of water, lunch and a hearty snack. A pleasant disposition!

Forecast: Sunny. High 67 F

Cell phones: Assume no service past the gate. Pre-load maps. Cross your T’s and dot your I’s.

Disclaimer: The organizer(s) are volunteers and not professional guides. By signing up for this trip, you are acknowledging that you are aware of the risks, dangers and hazards associated with any outdoor activity and freely accept and fully assume all such risks, dangers and hazards, and further agree to release and discharge the hike organizers against any and all liability arising from your participation in this activity.

★ We encourage our members to join the Sierra Club and support the Ventana Chapter, which is responsible for local outings, conservation, environmental education, leadership development and political activism. See "Who We Are" on our website: https://www.ventanasierraclub.org/ ★