Wilder Ranch State Park

The Wilder Ranch State Park provides space for biking, hiking and horseback riding on 34 miles worth of park trails. The trails travel through valley sand coastal terraces, providing rugged terrain and great views during the journey. The park has been a rancho that supplied the Santa Cruz Mission, as well as a dairy ranch. Visitors can tour the park and see living history demonstrations of how early ranchers and farmers lived along the central coast of California. The surrounding neighborhoods feature Victorian homes, an historic adobe and a variety of gardens. Weather can change drastically in a short time in the park, so hikers and other nature enthusiasts are encouraged to dress in layers. The park works with volunteers to provide activities and recreation to school children, hikers and special events. There are ongoing plans for restoration in the park for the Wilder Ranch. The 100 acres site includes historic habitats and native vegetation. Included in this part of the park is a salt marsh, riparian habitats, grasslands and wetlands. The restoration project began in 1994 and is considered extremely successful. The area is home to native trees, shrubs and plans, as well as wetland birds and hawks. Red-legged frogs and a variety of other wetland creatures now make their homes in the area.