Felton: Redwoods, History and Nature

Felton brings together ancient coast redwoods, a distinctive local history, and a special natural setting in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Add in culture and regional foods, and a stay can place different emphasis on nature, discovery, and local products. Deciding which aspect you would like to focus on is a useful starting point for searching for a vacation rental in Felton.

Coast Redwoods and Nature in the Park

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park covers more than 4,650 acres of forest and open land. Within the park is a 40-acre grove of towering old-growth coast redwoods. The comparison of areas highlights two different scales: the redwood grove and the much larger park grounds. Hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, swimming, and camping are available in the park. Check for current restrictions before your visit.

A flat, 0.8-mile (1.2 km) loop trail runs through the redwood grove. Its length and level terrain give the walk a clear framework if you would like to plan the grove as a distinct focus of your day in the park. Check park notices for temporary closures. The loop’s length and the park’s other activities offer different ways to plan time in nature in Felton.

The Santa Cruz Sandhills habitat is located in the higher elevations of the park: a rare ecosystem with numerous endemic species. Alongside the towering redwood grove, it offers a different perspective on Felton’s natural setting. If you would like to consider landscapes by more than one feature, there is a clear distinction here between the tree-lined scenery and the unique habitat.

Bridge History and Museum

The Felton Covered Bridge was built in 1892–1893 and served as Felton’s only access point for 45 years. Its construction period and role as an access point give the bridge a specific place in local history: its significance goes beyond its year of construction to include its former role in Felton.

The San Lorenzo Valley Museum gallery in Felton features permanent and rotating exhibitions. It is housed in a former church building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Exhibitions and historic church architecture therefore come together in one place. The gallery’s opening depends on the availability of museum guides. Admission to the galleries is free; donations are welcome. Please check current admission arrangements before your visit.

Discover Regional Foods

At the Felton Farmers’ Market, local farms and food businesses sell fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, eggs, artisan-baked bread, seafood, and other staples. The market adds a culinary focus alongside the nature and culture themes. The selection of vendors may vary.

Choose the Focus of Your Vacation

When searching for a vacation rental in Felton, it helps to compare your travel interests: should your stay focus mainly on nature and activities in the park, or would you also like to set aside time for local history, exhibitions, and regional foods? This can help you decide on the vacation focus that best fits your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Ben Lomond, Aptos, Soquel, Interlaken, Freedom, Scotts Valley, Rio del Mar, Capitola

For the broader travel overview: Santa Cruz.