Pogonip Open Space
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Pogonip Open Space

4.5
·453 reviews·Santa Cruz, United States

Explore Pogonip's scenic trails through redwood forests, oak slopes, and historic sites, offering stunning views and a peaceful natural escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Lush greenery & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Pogonip Open Space

Pogonip Open Space

Best Time

Spring mornings

Lush greenery & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Pogonip's scenic trails through redwood forests, oak slopes, and historic sites, offering stunning views and a peaceful natural escape.

4.5
(453 reviews)

"Beautiful easy nature trail through woods. Very picturesque coupled with open space and woods."

Vertical photo
TIP

Dog-Friendly Trails

Pogonip is a great spot for dog walking! Many trails are open to leashed pets.

Wear Tick Protection

Be vigilant about ticks. Wear long pants and check yourself and pets after hiking. [^Review]

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pogonip Koi Pond

Pogonip Koi Pond

Spring Box Trail

A serene, hidden gem offering a peaceful escape amidst the natural beauty of the open space.

Instagram+1
Lost Boys House

Lost Boys House

Lower Meadow Trail

Visit the iconic house from the cult classic film, a must-see for movie buffs and hikers alike.

Instagram
Historic Lime Kilns

Historic Lime Kilns

Various trails

Explore remnants of the area's industrial past, offering a glimpse into Santa Cruz's history. [^Review]

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Parking & Trailhead Tips

Finding the right parking spot can be tricky. Some recommend setting Google Maps to 'Parking Lot 119, Santa Cruz' or looking for signs indicating Zone 15123. Others suggest parking at the end of Golf Club Drive or on Glenn Coolidge Drive for access to specific trail sections. InstagramReddit

Tick Awareness

While Pogonip offers beautiful scenery, be aware of ticks. Several visitors reported finding ticks on themselves and their dogs after hikes. It's advisable to wear protective clothing and check thoroughly after your visit. [^Review]

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Lush greenery & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter trails, more wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Fall
Why
Pleasant temperatures, autumn colors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@sonic4days
235.7K likes • 1.6M views

Dog-Friendly Trails

Pogonip is a great spot for dog walking! Many trails are open to leashed pets. Instagram

Wear Tick Protection

Be vigilant about ticks. Wear long pants and check yourself and pets after hiking. [^Review]

Thank you @Roaring Camp Railroads for such a fun experience! 🚂 #visitsantacruz #roaringcamprailroad #steamtrain #bayareathingstodo #santacruzthingstodo #santacruz #fallbucketlist #fallthingstodo #redwoods @VisitSantaCruz #santacruzcounty #redwoodscalifornia #thingstodosantacruz #thingstodobayarea #californiadateidea #bayareadateidea #familyouting
@dianediscovers
57.6K likes • 586.2K views
Pogonip Open Space Preserve is located just south of Henry Cowell state park. Back in the days Native Americans harvested this land. In late 1800s it was used for lime industry. When Santa Cruz grew in to a tourist destination in early 1900s, this land was used for playing golf and polo and now used as an open space preserve. One thing to note is there are homeless camps in some surrounding areas....
aroundbayarea
8K likes • 198.5K views

Explore the Loops

Combine trails like Prairie, Rincon, and Spring Trail for a scenic 3-mile loop. Instagram

Pack Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated on longer hikes, especially during warmer months. Reddit

📍Prairie, Rincon, Spring Trail at Pogonip Open Space Preserve in Santa Cruz About 3 miles and takes you to a koi pond although it’s a little secret/hidden so be on the lookout! Dog friendly :) Let me know if you check it out and as always thank you to the ladies who came to our monthly Social Hike! 💕👯‍♀️🏔️ #bayareahikes #siliconvalleyhikes #bayareahikes #girlswhohike #socialhike #santacruzhik...
maddyb.realty
57 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Dog-Friendly Trails

Pogonip is a great spot for dog walking! Many trails are open to leashed pets. Instagram

Wear Tick Protection

Be vigilant about ticks. Wear long pants and check yourself and pets after hiking. [^Review]

Explore the Loops

Combine trails like Prairie, Rincon, and Spring Trail for a scenic 3-mile loop. Instagram

Pack Water & Snacks

Stay hydrated on longer hikes, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Check Trail Conditions

Some trails can be muddy after rain. Check local conditions before you go. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(453 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pogonip Open Space is praised for its beautiful, easy nature trails through picturesque woods and redwoods, offering a refreshing escape with views of the Monterey Bay. Visitors enjoy the free access, diverse trails, and historical sites like lime kilns and the 'Lost Boys' House. However, a significant concern raised by some is the high prevalence of ticks, which can detract from the overall experience.

"Beautiful easy nature trail through woods. Very picturesque coupled with open space and woods, path takes by small waterfalls, by stream and crossing over a stream breathing in nature. There are several other trails to branch off . Regular walkers do this 4 mile easy walk with friends and families."

Info Source

"An easily accessible beautiful relatively easy stroll in the redwoods can be found adjacent to the city of Santa Cruz and UCSC. Includes a view of historic lime kilns and views of the Monterey Bay. Free access no out of pocket purchase required."

John Hawklyn

"Cool spot to go hiking or dog walking!"

Paul-Elie Nauleau

What People Like

Beautiful redwood forests
Easy, scenic trails
Free access

What People Dislike

High tick presence

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Finding the right parking can be a challenge. Some visitors recommend setting your GPS to 'Parking Lot 119, Santa Cruz' or looking for Zone 15123. Alternatively, parking at the end of Golf Club Drive or on Glenn Coolidge Drive are suggested options for accessing different parts of the preserve. InstagramReddit

While direct public transport to trailheads might be limited, the preserve is adjacent to UC Santa Cruz, which is served by local bus routes. Check with the Santa Cruz Metro for the most up-to-date information on routes and stops near the preserve. Instagram

The Koi Pond is often described as a 'secret' or 'hidden' spot. Following trails like Spring Box or Spring Trail from the Golf Club Drive area is a common route. Keep an eye out for signs and be prepared for a bit of exploration. Instagram+1

Pogonip Open Space Preserve is located just south of Henry Cowell State Park, making it a convenient addition to a visit there. You can often find connecting trails or access points between the two areas. Instagram

While specific coordinates can vary, using 'Parking Lot 119, Santa Cruz' or looking for signs related to the 'Provost house' and Zone 15123 can help navigate to a good starting point. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Pogonip Open Space Preserve offers free access to its trails and natural beauty. There are no out-of-pocket purchase requirements to enjoy the hiking and exploring. [^Review]

As an open space preserve, Pogonip is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check with local park authorities for any specific seasonal hours or closures. Instagram

Generally, no permit is required for personal hiking or dog walking in Pogonip Open Space. However, if you are planning any organized group events or commercial activities, you may need to inquire about permits. Reddit

Yes, Pogonip is a dog-friendly open space! Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, making it a great destination for pet owners. Instagram

For casual hiking, there are typically no strict restrictions on small group sizes. However, for larger organized hikes or events, it's advisable to contact the managing authorities to ensure compliance with any regulations. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Pogonip offers a diverse network of trails, including shady redwood forests, open grassy slopes, and paths that wind past streams and small waterfalls. You can find loops ranging from easy strolls to more moderate hikes. TikTok [^Review]

Key attractions include the serene Koi Pond, the historic Lime Kilns, and the 'Lost Boys' House. The preserve also offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding landscape. Instagram+1 [^Review]

Yes, Pogonip is a popular spot for mountain biking, with many trails catering to different skill levels. The open space connects to other trail systems like Wilder Ranch, offering extensive biking opportunities. Instagram+1

Restroom facilities may be limited within the preserve itself. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or at nearby parks like Henry Cowell State Park if needed. Instagram

Visitors have reported spotting deer and various bird species. The diverse habitats within Pogonip support a range of local wildlife. [^Review]

📸 📸 Photography

The Koi Pond offers a tranquil scene, especially with reflections. The historic Lime Kilns provide interesting textures and a sense of history. The redwood forests and ocean views also present beautiful photographic opportunities. Instagram [^Review]

Absolutely! The rolling hills, dense forests, and glimpses of the Monterey Bay provide excellent subjects for landscape photographers. The changing seasons also offer varied scenery. Instagram [^Review]

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The 'golden hour' can be particularly magical in the redwood groves. Instagram

Drone usage in open space preserves can be restricted. It's crucial to check with the local park authorities or the City of Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation department regarding drone regulations before flying. Instagram

Yes, the old lime kilns and the 'Lost Boys' house offer unique historical elements that make for compelling photographs, blending nature with man-made structures. Instagram [^Review]

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pogonip Open Space is a fantastic destination for families looking for an outdoor adventure. The relatively easy trails, like those leading to the Koi Pond or around the historic lime kilns, are perfect for little legs. Dogs are also welcome on leash, making it a great outing for the whole family, furry members included! Instagram [^Review]

Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and be mindful of tick season. The variety of scenery, from shady woods to open meadows, keeps children engaged. The 'Lost Boys' House also adds a touch of movie magic that kids might enjoy. TikTok [^Review]

🐶 Dog Owners

Pogonip is a paradise for dog owners! Leashed dogs are welcome on most of the trails, allowing your furry companions to enjoy the beautiful redwood and oak forests alongside you. It's a popular spot for dog walking, and many visitors appreciate the opportunity to explore with their pets. Instagram

However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential for ticks. Several reviews mention finding ticks on dogs after a visit, so be sure to take precautions like using tick repellent and thoroughly checking your dog after your hike. [^Review]

🚴 Mountain Bikers

For mountain bikers, Pogonip Open Space offers a thrilling network of trails. The preserve is known for its varied terrain, suitable for different skill levels, and it connects to the extensive trail system of Wilder Ranch State Park, providing hours of riding opportunities. Instagram+1

Whether you're looking for a challenging climb or a scenic downhill, Pogonip has something to offer. The open space allows for exploration and the chance to discover hidden spots while enjoying the natural beauty of the Santa Cruz area. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Pogonip's Trails

Pogonip Open Space Preserve boasts an extensive network of trails, catering to a variety of interests and fitness levels. From gentle, shaded paths through towering redwood and oak forests to more open, sun-drenched slopes offering panoramic views of the Monterey Bay, there's a trail for everyone. Popular routes include the loop that takes you to the serene Koi Pond, a hidden gem often sought out by visitors. Instagram+1 [^Review]

For those interested in history, trails lead to remnants of the area's past, such as the historic lime kilns that were once a significant industry in Santa Cruz. Movie buffs will also find a point of interest in the 'Lost Boys' House, a location featured in the cult classic film. Instagram [^Review]

Many trails are interconnected, allowing for customizable hikes and the creation of longer loops. The preserve is also a popular destination for mountain bikers, with many trails suitable for cycling, and it connects to the larger trail system at Wilder Ranch State Park, offering even more adventure. Instagram+1

A Glimpse into Pogonip's Past

The land that is now Pogonip Open Space Preserve has a rich and varied history. For centuries, it was a harvesting ground for Native American tribes. In the late 19th century, the area was utilized for its lime industry, leaving behind the historic kilns that can still be explored today. Instagram [^Review]

As Santa Cruz evolved into a tourist destination in the early 20th century, Pogonip found new life as a recreational area. It was once home to golf courses and polo fields, reflecting the leisure activities of the era. This blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes Pogonip a unique place to explore. Instagram

Today, Pogonip serves as a vital open space preserve, protecting its natural resources and providing a sanctuary for wildlife while offering recreational opportunities for the public. Its proximity to UC Santa Cruz also means it's a cherished natural laboratory and a beloved escape for students and faculty. Instagram

Navigating Pogonip: Parking and Access

Accessing Pogonip Open Space can sometimes be a puzzle, with several entry points and parking areas. Some visitors find success by setting their GPS to 'Parking Lot 119, Santa Cruz' or looking for specific zone markers like Zone 15123, which is near the 'Provost house.' Instagram

Other recommended parking spots include the end of Golf Club Drive, which provides access to certain trail loops, and along Glenn Coolidge Drive. It's important to note that some areas, particularly those closer to UC Santa Cruz, might have parking restrictions or require permits, so researching the specific trailhead you plan to use is advisable. Reddit

For those looking to avoid parking hassles or seeking a more integrated experience, consider combining a visit to Pogonip with a trip to the adjacent Henry Cowell State Park, as there are often connecting trails or nearby access points. Instagram

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