Monterey Bay Trekkers

The Monterey Bay Trekkers hiking program is an opportunity for Cub Scouts and their families to explore local hiking trails and parks in Monterey, San Benito and Santa Cruz Counties. Through the Trekkers program, Cub Scouts and their families will also learn why health and fitness are important for a long-lasting and productive life.



Wilder Ranch Hike

Wilder Ranch State Historic Park
This hike takes you by the coast to sea many types of animals and also shows historic ranching operations.

Hike Statistics
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
Time: Allow 1 hour
Grade: Mostly flat
Suggested Age: Tigers through Webelos

Hike Description
The path, Old Cove Landing Trail, an old ranch road, heads coastward. Signs warn you not to head left to Wilder Beach (where the snowy plovers dwell) and discourage you from heading right, where pesticides are used on the fields of Brussels sprouts. The trail offers a bird’s-eye view of the surf surging into a sea cave, then turns north and follows the cliff edge. Old Landing Cove is smaller than you imagine, and you wonder how the coastal schooners of old managed to maneuver into such small confines. If it’s low tide, you might see harbor seals resting atop the flat rocks located offshore. Continue on the trail and along the bluffs. Be VERY CAREFUL, as there are many sheer bluffs with no fencing; small children should be monitored. As you continue along the trail you will see trail marker #8, this indicates you are close to the fern-filled sea cave. There is a small foot path down to the fern-filled sea cave; the ferns are watered by an underground spring. The small beach at the cave is a great turnaround point or a great picnic spot.

Driving Directions:
From Santa Cruz, head north on Coast Highway four miles to the signed turnoff for Wilder Ranch State Park on the ocean side of the highway. Follow the park road to its end at the large parking lot, where the signed trail begins.

Administration
California State Parks: Wilder Ranch State Historic Park
Telephone (831) 423-9703
Operating Hours: 8 am to Sunset
Location: The park is north of Santa Cruz, immediately west of Highway One, just a mile or so past the Western Drive stoplight.
Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=25126

Other Activities
Call (831) 426-0505 (the Wilder Ranch Interpretive Center) for information regarding tours and interpretive activities.



Contact Information:
Santa Cruz Cub Scouts Pack 618 Cub Masters can be reached via email at  http://www.bspack618.org All Pack 618 official information and announcements are posted and updated.