
This is a moderate 4-mile round trip hike with about 700 hundred feet of elevation change. Our hike takes us to Sam’s cabin (Chee-Chee-Wa-Wa) and under the redwood trees he called “lords of the forest.” Sam MacDonald left an enduring legacy when he bequeathed his land for the enjoyment of future generations. He built a cabin there and shared it with students and a children’s charity. Sam acquired a grove of coast redwood trees in the Santa Cruz mountains for use as a sanctuary and retreat. He even received a personal visit from President Herbert Hoover! During the course of his life and career, Sam earned the affection and respect of generations of students and faculty. From these humble beginnings, he went on to become superintendent of athletic grounds and buildings at Stanford University. Sam MacDonald was born in Louisiana, son to a minister and grandson of enslaved people. Visitors to the county during the winter should bring a selection of long and short sleeve shirts and a jacket, but it’s not uncommon for a few unseasonable T-shirt days.Join Greenbelt Alliance for a history and nature hike “beneath the lords of the forest!” The coldest months are generally in January and February so remember to pack a coat and umbrella. The county typically receives the bulk of its yearly rainfall during the winter months. While rain is not usual during this time, an umbrella is still a good item to bring. Visitors should bring layered clothing, a selection of both short and long sleeved shirts, pants and shorts. Packing for the fall is a breeze if not varied. It is by far one of the best times to visit the area. October also marks the arrival of migrating monarch butterflies to a grove of eucalyptus trees at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz for the winter.
Weather santa cruz mountains ca Patch#
The period of warm weather usually occurs in October and the first half of November and coincides with the harvest season.Ĭounty wineries are buzzing at this time with special events and wine tastings while local farms host apple picking and pumpkin patch activities. It is best to pack a sweater or lightweight jacket, shorts and short-sleeve shirts and sandals.Īutumns typically start off warm with some of the best weather of the year along the coast and ends cool and brisk. It can be hot and dry in the Santa Cruz Mountain towns of Felton and Boulder Creek while 15 miles south in the coastal community of Aptos it could be cool with a blanket of fog. This is especially apparent in the summer. The weather can also vary significantly depending on your location within the county due to the region’s unique and varied topography. Summers are overall warm, with the hottest areas in the Santa Cruz Mountains, but coastal fog results in some overcast days especially in mid and south county. Visitors to the area can make do with packing a windbreaker, light scarf, umbrella and hooded sweatshirt. County and state parks are blossoming with wildflowers at this time and the region’s farmers are busy planting a rich bounty of crops.

Spring is generally mild and bright with scattered showers throughout the season.

The temperature drops significantly once the sunsets even when the day is hot so it is wise to always keep a sweater or lightweight jacket nearby. While the weather does vary throughout the year, it rarely reaches extremes so it is best to dress in layers. Santa Cruz weather benefits from an enviable Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers tempered by rolling fog along the coast.
