As a special benefit to Sempervirens Fund members and guests, you are invited to join our hikes and tours.  Our docents will lead you on adventures on a variety of trails throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains. Click a calendar date for info about a hike on that date.  

• Little Basin and the Tanbark Trail - Learn about our newest protected forest land by means of an easy hike.
• Lompico Headwaters - Penetrate the depths of a steeply-incised redwood canyon in quest of headwaters, and find out how protecting a watershed and battling climate change go hand in hand.
• San Lorenzo River Redwoods - Visit the spectacular redwood cathedral groves of Castle Rock State Park, an area still not fully open to the public
• Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail - Take in the sweeping vistas on one of the most spectacular trails in western America.
• And much, much more.

We’ve expanded our hike schedule this year; look for new dates on the calendar as the year progresses.  We have more trained docents than ever, ready to treat you to the wonders of the redwood forest.
    
When are the hikes? 

• We offer hikes during all seasons, weekends and weekdays. 
• Check the calendar for specific date, then follow links and register
• Choose Hike from scheduled dates listed by location

Who may go on hikes? 

• Our hikes are for supporters of Sempervirens Fund and their guests. 
• Many of our hikes are open to the general public 
• Sorry, dogs are not allowed on most of our hikes.

Where do we meet? 

• There is no standard meeting spot. 
• Check the details on each individual hike.

Is there a fee for the hikes? 

• No, but some sites charge a parking fee.
• Check the details on each individual hike.

What should every hiker bring? 

• Comfortable hiking shoes; appropriate footwear is required on all of our hikes.
• Sensible trail clothing for hot or cold; wear layers
• Water
• Sack lunch for the longer hikes
• Personal items: day pack, hat, camera, etc.
• Please, no dogs
• Check the details on each individual hike.

Are there restrooms?

• The availability of restrooms varies.
• Check the details on each individual hike.

Do I need reservations?  

• Yes. Choose Hike page shows available dates by location of hike.
• Most hikes can accommodate up to 20 people; good weather can mean fully-subscribed hikes.

Hiker Etiquette

• Sempervirens Fund hikes are group hikes.  Our docents feel responsible for the safety of our guests.  Please stay with the group, and respect the directions of the hike leader and hike sweep.
• Our docents will talk a bit to interpret what you are seeing. For many, this is a social occasion. For others, this is a time for reflection. You share one of the most unique environments on earth.
• Don't ever litter. Whatever you bring with you should return with you.
• Stick to the trail. It'll keep you safe and help protect the natural environment.
• Leave everything as you found it. It is illegal to disturb plants or wildlife in most areas we’ll be hiking, or to remove archaeological artifacts, dead wood, fossils or other geological features. If you must carry away a memento of your visit, make sure it's only a photograph.
  

More important information

• Confirmation and directions will be emailed to you upon receipt of your online hike registration.
• Heavy rains within 24 hours of a hike or flood conditions may cause a hike to be cancelled.  You will be notified.
• For further information or to reserve your hike by phone, please call us during business hours at 650-968-4509.  We look forward to seeing you on the trails.

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