6 min
Overview
Deep in the heart of California’s oldest state park lie a trio of waterfalls crashing into grottos shaded by towering redwood trees. The popular Berry Creek Falls loop visits these waterfalls via a moderately difficult loop passing through pristine, old-growth redwoods nestled into the large basin that lends this park its name. Golden Cascades Silver Falls Berry Creek Falls Big Basin lies in the western half of the Santa Cruz Mountains north of the city of Santa Cruz. The range lies near the southernmost edge of the coast redwood’s distribution, and the range’s location, elevation, and proximity to the ocean are responsible for creating a climate that supports an impressive forest. The area’s relative elevation ensures enhanced rainfall rates, which typically reach 50″ per year during an average season. Meanwhile, the ocean’s tendency to produce summer fogs provides a sort of drip-irrigation system for the thirsty redwoods and their lush understory. The result is a redwood forest that, despite any particularly outstanding trees, tends to hold its own against the larger and wetter forests of California’s northern coast. All of this precipitation creates an abundance of running water throughout the season. Berry Creek runs year-round, although its flow is at its most impressive during the heart of the winter season (January through March). Springtime produces a more moderate flow, but also offers flower blooms, including various lilies and gorgeous carpets of baby blue eyes. Summers can be cool and foggy, but along with that also comes the crowds of the summer season. Fall tends to be cool and dry. Backpacking is also possible on this route. Big Basin contains five separate backcountry campgrounds within its boundaries, and Sunset Campground adjacent to Berry Creek just north of the junction with the Berry Creek Falls Trail is an ideal campground to fully explore the three waterfalls at the heart of this loop. You can reserve campsites in advance by calling (831) 338-8861 Monday through Friday between 9am and 5
Trail Stats
17.9 km
548 m
420 m
107 m
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