Tromp Blog

Introduction to Geocaching in the Santa Cruz Mountains

A child discovers a geocache! Credit: Adobe

Here's your step-by-step instructional guide to getting started with geocaching in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

8 Great Trails for Rainy Day Running

Ocean vista from post-rain Wilder Ranch trails.

Don't let the rain stop you from trail running! Here are eight places around Santa Cruz you can run when it's wet outside.

Camp at Rancho del Oso and Visit the New Welcome Center

The entrance to the campground at Rancho del Oso. Credit: Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks

Big Basin’s Rancho del Oso is a hidden gem for fall and winter camping, hiking, and exploring one of Santa Cruz County’s beautiful North Coast beaches.

A Conversation with Santa Cruz Conservationist Bryan Largay

Bryan Largay at Watsonville Slough Farm, one of the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County's agricultural properties. Credit: Emily Repech

Bryan Largay, Land Trust of Santa Cruz County’s conservation director, has overseen land stewardship for the organization since 2012. He talks about his work, serving the environmental community, and future issues.

Day Trips and Sips: Explore Big Basin as it Rebuilds

Big Basin Redwoods State Park welcomes visitors after the CZU Lightning Complex Fires in 2020. Credit: Naomi Friedland

Big Basin and the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains area have a lot to offer, from hikes showcasing the resiliency of redwoods after the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire to rustic wineries and well-loved dining establishments.

Latine Leaders Changing the Outdoor Community

Daniel Rodriguez has spent his young adult years seeking outdoor adventures. Photo by Andrew Noguera

Sep 15 to Oct 15 marks National Hispanic Heritage Month. Meet one of many Silicon Valley Latine leaders who are changing the outdoor community.

Five Fall Santa Cruz Mountain Hikes

The Fall Creek Trail runs right next to the creek covered in lush greenery. © California State Parks.

Enjoy the changing colors of the leaves and the serenity of hiking in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Oh, and a chai recipe to warm you up!

Girls Rock: Santa Cruz Group Inspires Women Mountain Bikers

Girls Rock riders enjoying the local trails. Photo © Tina West

On its monthly group rides, Girls Rock defies mountain biking’s male-dominated culture, providing mentorship & opportunities to a community of women riders.

Visit the Newest Trails in Santa Cruz at San Vicente Redwoods!

Vista Point at San Vicente Redwoods, photo copyright Mike Kahn.

Beyond Santa Cruz: Explore Portola Valley for hiking, food, and wine tasting

Sunrise from Windy Hill overlooking San Francisco Bay, copyright Eleanor Raab.

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