1. Activity/ Outdoor:
Article 1: Castle Rock State Park
Need an idea for your next adventure? Lace up your hiking shoes and pack some Ladera
Granola, we are heading to the Santa Cruz Mountains. Boasting 35 miles of hiking trails and captivating
landscapes Castle Rock State Park is a true gem for anyone looking for a beautiful Bay Area outdoor
adventure. Located in Los Gatos nestling along the crest of the Santa Cruz mountains the vast forests
and sandstone formations create a spectacle that is worthy of a drive from anywhere. Whether you are
looking for a short scenic hike or are in it for the long haul, Castle Rock offers challenging and truly
captivating hikes for adventures of all skill levels.
The shortest trail in the park is a little less than a mile, ideal for anyone looking to breathe some
fresh air and take in some spectacular scenery. A bounty of trails leave you with great options for
shorter day hikes. Backpackers worry not, this is still the place for you. Castle Rock State Park is the
entrance to the Skyline to the Sea Trail. A hike done on this trail will take three days beginning in Castle
Rock, passing through Big Basin Redwoods State Park, and ending at Waddell Beach. Clocked in at 30
miles this backpacking adventure is sure to please with challenging trails, and a changing scenery giving
you encompassing views of redwood forests, sandstone canyons, and breathtaking ocean views.
Reservations for sites are recommended to be made about two months prior and will cost you 15
dollars.
If you are looking to put on your harness or even try your hands at bouldering Castle Rock is a
haven for rock climbing. With over 30 routes for roped climbing and 115 bouldering problems finding a
route suitable for your skill level is a breeze. The sandstone canyons offer faces that will challenge your
grip and give you a beautiful view when you have conquered your climb. The trails offer up easy access
to the routes in addition to a scenic hike to your desired routes. Need I say more?
It is not all hiking and steep canyons in this state park. Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area
offers a fantastic place for picnics, family outings, and much more. With picnic sites and volleyball courts
open every day to the public it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the day. None of the beauty of the
state park is missed here, you will catch an array of nature filled views in every direction.
The combination of the beauty that Castle Rock has to offer with its variety of destinations and
activities makes it the perfect place to get out of the house and stay active. The summer screams perfect
weather for getting outside and seeing new places, trying new things and breathing fresh air. Now that
you have a new awesome place to go explore fuel up with some Ladera Granola, and the rest is up to
you.
-Ben Yoell