The Best Places to Walk, Run, and Hike Around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz County is one of the best places in California to live an active lifestyle. From breathtaking coastal paths overlooking the Pacific Ocean to peaceful redwood forests and scenic mountain trails, there’s no shortage of places to get outside and move your body. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely morning walk, a challenging trail run, or a weekend hike with family and friends, our community offers something for everyone.

At Fox Fitness Club, we believe fitness extends far beyond the walls of a gym. Building strength, improving endurance, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle happen through a combination of consistent exercise, outdoor adventures, and finding activities you genuinely enjoy. That’s why we encourage our members to take advantage of everything Santa Cruz County has to offer.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your next outdoor workout, here are some of our favorite places to walk, run, and hike throughout Santa Cruz County.

Why Outdoor Exercise Is Great for Your Health

Outdoor exercise offers unique benefits that complement your workouts in the gym. Walking, running, and hiking not only improve cardiovascular health but also help reduce stress, increase energy levels, and boost your mood. Spending time in nature has been shown to support mental well-being, improve focus, and encourage consistency with physical activity.

Changing terrain also challenges muscles differently than a treadmill or indoor track. Hills strengthen your legs and glutes, uneven surfaces improve balance and stability, and fresh air can make longer workouts feel more enjoyable.

Whether your goal is losing weight, improving endurance, preparing for your next race, or simply enjoying a healthier lifestyle, combining outdoor activities with regular strength training creates a well-rounded fitness routine.

1. West Cliff Drive

Few places capture the beauty of Santa Cruz quite like West Cliff Drive. Stretching along the coastline, this scenic route offers panoramic ocean views, refreshing sea breezes, and some of the most picturesque walking and running opportunities in the county.

The mostly paved pathway makes it accessible for nearly every fitness level. Whether you’re taking a relaxing stroll, jogging before work, or pushing through a longer weekend run, West Cliff provides a beautiful backdrop that makes every mile more enjoyable.

Along the route you’ll pass surfers catching waves, families enjoying the parks, and plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. Sunrise and sunset are especially popular times, offering incredible views over the Pacific Ocean.

2. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

If you enjoy hiking beneath towering redwood trees, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park should be at the top of your list. The park features miles of trails winding through ancient forests that create a peaceful escape from everyday life.

The shaded environment makes it an excellent destination during warmer summer months, allowing hikers and runners to stay cool while enjoying nature. Trails range from easy walks suitable for families to more challenging routes that provide a great cardiovascular workout.

Walking among centuries-old redwoods reminds us to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding Santa Cruz County.

3. The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park

For those looking to challenge themselves, The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park offers miles of beautiful trails with varying levels of difficulty. Located just minutes from Soquel, this park is a favorite among hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers.

The combination of towering trees, flowing creeks, and gradual climbs makes every visit feel like a new adventure. Longer trails provide an excellent endurance workout while allowing visitors to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.

Because many of the trails feature elevation gain, this park is an outstanding place to build cardiovascular endurance and strengthen your lower body naturally.

4. Wilder Ranch State Park

Wilder Ranch State Park combines rolling coastal hills with breathtaking ocean views to create one of the most diverse outdoor recreation areas in Santa Cruz County.

Visitors can choose from easier coastal walks or venture onto more challenging inland trails featuring hills that provide an excellent leg workout. The park is also incredibly popular with runners, cyclists, and hikers looking to experience California’s rugged coastline.

Wildflowers, wildlife, and panoramic views make this one of the most rewarding places to spend an active afternoon.

Tips for Enjoying Santa Cruz County Trails

Before heading out on your next adventure, a little preparation can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Even shorter hikes can become challenging if you become dehydrated. Wear supportive footwear designed for the activity you’re planning. Proper shoes reduce fatigue and help prevent injuries on uneven terrain. Always let someone know where you’re going if you’re hiking alone, particularly on longer trails. Check weather conditions before leaving, as coastal fog, heat, or rain can change trail conditions throughout the day. Stay on designated trails to protect the local environment and reduce your chances of encountering hazards. Apply sunscreen, wear a hat when appropriate, and consider bringing lightweight layers since temperatures can change quickly between the coast and the mountains. Finally, remember to leave every trail cleaner than you found it. Respecting our parks helps preserve these beautiful places for future generations.

How Strength Training Makes Outdoor Adventures Easier

While walking and hiking provide fantastic cardiovascular exercise, strength training can significantly improve your outdoor performance. Strong legs help you climb hills more efficiently while reducing fatigue on longer hikes. A stronger core improves balance and stability on uneven trails, helping prevent slips and falls. Building upper body strength also makes carrying backpacks, water, or hiking gear more comfortable. Regular resistance training can also reduce your risk of injury by strengthening the muscles that support your knees, hips, and ankles. Improved flexibility and mobility further enhance your ability to move confidently across changing terrain. Many hikers and runners focus exclusively on cardio, but combining outdoor activities with strength training creates a more balanced fitness routine that supports long-term health and performance.

Start Your Next Adventure

At Fox Fitness Club, we know that fitness looks different for everyone. Some people love lifting weights, while others find their motivation on a scenic hiking trail or a morning run along the coast. The best fitness routine is one that keeps you moving consistently and fits your lifestyle. Our family-owned gym in Soquel is designed to help people of all experience levels build strength, improve endurance, and stay healthy in a welcoming, supportive environment. Whether you’re training for your first 5K, preparing for weekend hikes, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to feel your best, we’re here to support your journey. With modern equipment, a clean facility, flexible access, and a community-focused atmosphere, Fox Fitness Club is the perfect place to complement you