Just north the Santa Cruz seaside suburb of Aptos, the tranquil Forest of Nisene Marks State Park (parking $8) offers picnic spots and the opportunity to hike, jog or bike on 30 miles of trails in rugged semi-wilderness.
The terrain rises from sea level to coastal mountains exceeding 2600 feet. These comparatively young trees show forest regeneration in action after rampant 19th-century logging. Steep, fern-fringed trails lead down to Aptos Creek. Keep an eye out for fossils scattered around the riverbed (but no souvenirs!).
