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The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park 100 Aptos Creek Rd, Aptos, CA 95003 ☎ (831) 464-5620 Last Updated: 09/25/2023 |
| The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is a beautiful and historic park located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just a short drive from the town of Aptos and the city of Santa Cruz on the central coast of California. The park offers rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains of more than 2,600 feet. | |
| History: The park is named after Nisene Marks, a passionate nature lover who bequeathed the land to the state of California in 1963. The park was established to protect and preserve the second-growth redwood forest that had regrown after extensive logging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is a testament to the resilience of nature. Natural Beauty: The park covers over 10,000 acres and features a diverse range of ecosystems, including lush redwood forests, oak woodlands, creeks, and meadows. It's known for its scenic beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and a wide variety of plant and animal species. Hiking and Recreation: The Forest of Nisene Marks offers an extensive network of hiking, running, and biking trails that wind through the park's forests and along Aptos Creek. The Aptos Creek Trail is one of the most popular routes and follows the creek for several miles, passing by picturesque spots like Maple Falls and Five Finger Falls. The terrain varies from easy to challenging, making it suitable for all levels of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Picnicking: The park provides picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal in a natural setting. It's a great place for families and groups to gather for a picnic. Interpretive Center: The park has an Interpretive Center that offers educational exhibits and information about the park's natural and cultural history. It's an excellent place to learn more about the park's ecology and the impact of logging in the area. Camping: The park does not have traditional campgrounds, but nearby state and private campgrounds offer camping options for those who want to stay overnight in the Aptos area. Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bobcats, and a wide array of bird species. Birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant. Photography: The scenic beauty of the redwood forest, particularly the towering trees and serene creeks, makes the Forest of Nisene Marks State Park a popular destination for photographers. With over 30 miles of trails, hiking, jogging and biking are some of the activities to be enjoyed here. Picnic tables and barbecue pits are available. A trail camp is located six miles from the nearest parking lot. Dogs are allowed only along the entrance road and in the picnic areas and must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is a hidden gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering a peaceful escape into nature for visitors who want to explore and appreciate the beauty and history of this coastal California region. | |
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Santa Cruz County » Aptos
Place » Outdoors
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Aptos Place » City Aptos is an unincorporated town in Santa Cruz County, California. The town is made up of several small villages, which together form Aptos: Aptos Hills-Larkin Valley, Aptos Village, Cabrillo, Seacliff, Rio del Mar, and Seascape. Together, they have a combined population of 24,402. 45 views 💖 1California |
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Seascape County Park Place » Outdoors Seascape County Park is a six acre city park that sits high on the bluff above the ocean in the Rio Del Mar area of Aptos. In the park you’ll find open grassy areas, a kids playground, and restrooms making it great for families. 56 views 💖 1Sumner Ave, Aptos, CA 95003 |
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Hidden Beach County Park Place » Outdoors Hidden Beach County Park is a small hard-to-find park in a creek ravine that empties out on a sandy beach in the Rio Del Mar community in Aptos. The park has grass lawns, a kids playground, and picnic tables. 56 views 💖 1660 Cliff Dr, Aptos, CA 95003 |
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Seacliff State Beach Place » Outdoors Seacliff State Beach is home of "The Cement Ship," excellent fishing, swimming, surfing, RV camping, and all those stairs ... Seacliff State Beach has something for everyone. 53 views 💖 1State Park Dr, Aptos, CA 95003 |