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This year, change it up. Instead of diving into the mayhem at the mall and stress-eating Cinnabons, take a cue from REI and go outside!
Even if you missed out on Save The Redwood League's free entrance to state parks offer, fear not. There are plenty of activities at area parks for visitors who don't mind paying the modest parking fee. And don't forget—Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties have loads of city and county parks, many of which are as beautiful as state parks and absolutely free. (Scroll down for a list.)
And if your group has strollers or wheelchairs, take a look at our Guide to Wheelchair-Friendly Trails.
Black Friday at California State Parks
HENRY COWELL REDWOODS STATE PARK
11am Hilltromper Guided Hike: The Natural Wonders of Henry Cowell Join us on a 4-mile, moderately strenuous hike to the Observation Deck, where you'll get a glimpse of the ocean and stunning view of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Click on the link to RSVP.
BIG BASIN REDWOODS STATE PARK
10:30am Meteor Trail Hike A 6-mile, 3.5-hour hike past mighty redwoods and firs, with stunning views of the coast.
11am and 2pm Redwood Loop Walk A half-mile, 90-minute guided stroll past the park's grandest old-growth trees. Stroller- and wheelchair-accessible.
CASTLE ROCK STATE PARK
10am Lower Castle Rock Hike Meet at Waterman Gap (Hwys 9 and 236) for a short walk and talk, then caravan to Toll Road and park in the lot to explore Lower Castle Rock Park with former Castle Rock ranger Miles Standish.
WILDER RANCH STATE PARK
11am Coast Nature Walk A two-hour hike, not too challenging, along the coastal bluffs north of Santa Cruz.
City and County Parks of Santa Cruz County and Santa Clara County
Many city, county and regional parks rival state parks in beauty, and they're often free. Explore a new one this weekend!
In Santa Cruz County, think Quail Hollow, Pogonip and dog-friendly Byrne-Milliron. These spectacular parks are seldom crowded.
In Santa Clara County, think Skyline Ridge, Rancho San Antonio, Almaden Quicksilver, Alum Rock or gorgeous Calero County Park. And that's just a few of them.
You get the picture. Visit Hilltromper Santa Cruz and Hilltromper Silicon Valley, pick a park and pick a trail. It's easy. Hope to see you out there!
Photo by Hilltromper
