Events & Activities at Big Basin

All events and activities are free. Day-use vehicle fee is $10.

Events made possible by Mountain Parks Foundation, Waddell Creek Association, and California State Parks.

FREE DECEMBER ACTIVITIES

SATURDAY DECEMBER 15

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Hike
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16

9:30 am
The Road Less Traveled—A Dog-Friendly Walk
On this dog-friendly walk, we travel North Escape Road, a paved road closed to traffic. We tour stunning old-growth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. We'll discuss redwood ecology and park history while exploring the deep shade of the redwood forest. This is a fun, easy, 3-mile, 2-hour walk with Docent Diane Shaw. Dogs not required, but welcome! Bring water. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18

9:30 am
Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with Docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23

9:30 am
The Road Less Traveled—A Dog-Friendly Walk
On this dog-friendly walk, we travel North Escape Road, a paved road closed to traffic. We tour stunning old-growth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. We'll discuss redwood ecology and park history while exploring the deep shade of the redwood forest. This is a fun, easy, 3-mile, 2-hour walk with Docent Diane Shaw. Dogs not required, but welcome! Bring water. Meet at Park Headquarters.

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Hike
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 25

9:30 am
Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with Docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SATURDAY DECEMBER 29

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Hike
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

12-3 pm
Snakes Alive!
Why are snakes important to us? How do they see, smell, taste, hear? What and how do they eat? What does a snake feel like? Come to the Sempervirens Room at Park Headquarters and meet Docent Diane Shaw and learn about the fascinating world of snakes. Stop by anytime to meet the snake and talk to Diane.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30

9:30 am
The Road Less Traveled—A Dog-Friendly Walk
On this dog-friendly walk, we travel North Escape Road, a paved road closed to traffic. We tour stunning old-growth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. We'll discuss redwood ecology and park history while exploring the deep shade of the redwood forest. This is a fun, easy, 3-mile, 2-hour walk with Docent Diane Shaw. Dogs not required, but welcome! Bring water. Meet at Park Headquarters.

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Hike
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 31

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet at Park Headquarters.

FIRST DAY ACTIVITIES
TUESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2019
Start your year off right, with a rejuvenating visit to California’s oldest state park! Enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise, and connect with nature and our ancient redwoods.

9 am
Buzzard’s Roost Hike
Join Docents Kathy Willott and Glenn Joy for a hike to Buzzard’s Roost. We’ll take an early hike in hopes of seeing things that might be hiding later in the day and share our findings as we go. We’ll watch the environment change as we climb and enjoy the view from the top. Hikers should be able to do a steady uphill grade for 2.5 miles (elevation gain about 1,200 ft.), but we’ll go at a pace that allows us to enjoy what we see. Wear good walking shoes, dress in layers and bring snacks. Meet at Park Headquarters.

9-1
Coffee Talk and Crafts
Come to the Sempervirens Room next to Park Headquarters for free coffee or hot chocolate! This is a great way to start your day in Big Basin. Docent Norm Beeson will be happy to answer your questions about the park and help get you going on the right trail. And bring the kids for a fun craft activity!

9:30 am
Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with Docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at Park Headquarters.

10 am
Sempervirens Falls Hike
This beautiful hike takes you by Sempervirens Falls, old-growth redwoods, Ohlone grinding rocks, the birthplace of Big Basin and more! Join Docent Tom Batley on this 4-mile, 3-hour hike. Bring water and snacks. Meet at Park Headquarters.

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike!
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike is individually tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we'll choose from the many trails that explore our most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters. Heavy rain cancels.

FREE JANUARY ACTIVITIES

JANUARY FREE ACTIVITIES

FIRST DAY ACTIVITIES
TUESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2019
Start your year off right, with a rejuvenating visit to California’s oldest state park! Enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise, and connect with nature and our ancient redwoods.

9 am
Buzzard’s Roost Hike
Join Docents Kathy Willott and Glenn Joy for a hike to Buzzard’s Roost. We’ll take an early hike in hopes of seeing things that might be hiding later in the day and share our findings as we go. We’ll watch the environment change as we climb and enjoy the view from the top. Hikers should be able to do a steady uphill grade for 2.5 miles (elevation gain about 1,200 ft.), but we’ll go at a pace that allows us to enjoy what we see. Wear good walking shoes, dress in layers and bring snacks. Meet at Park Headquarters.

9-1
Coffee Talk and Crafts
Come to the Sempervirens Room next to Park Headquarters for free coffee or hot chocolate! This is a great way to start your day in Big Basin. Docent Norm Beeson will be happy to answer your questions about the park and help get you going on the right trail. And bring the kids for a fun craft activity!

9:30 am
Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with Docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at Park Headquarters.

10 am
Sempervirens Falls Hike
This beautiful hike takes you by Sempervirens Falls, old-growth redwoods, Ohlone grinding rocks, the birthplace of Big Basin and more! Join Docent Tom Batley on this 4-mile, 3-hour hike. Bring water and snacks. Meet at Park Headquarters.

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike!
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike is individually tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we'll choose from the many trails that explore our most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters. Heavy rain cancels.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 5

9-12
Coffee Talk and Crafts
Come to the Sempervirens Room next to Park Headquarters for free coffee or hot chocolate! This is a great way to start your day in Big Basin. Big Basin Docents will be happy to answer your questions about the park and help get you going on the right trail. And bring the kids for a fun craft activity!

10-12
Ohlone Plant Use Rain cancels.
No Safeway? No Home Depot? No Pharmacy? How did the Ohlone Indians survive? Docent Eva Fewel will have plant samples and tools that the local Native Californians used. Learn how they collected, processed and used the local plants. Stop by our Campfire Center anytime from 10-12.

11:30 am
Felling the Giants Rain cancels.
How did lumbermen cut down these tall, tall trees? What was life like in a logging camp? What tools did they use? Join Docent Paul Fewel as he tells stories of the logging days and demonstrates how loggers were able to fell these giants—without chainsaws! You get to use some tools too! Meet at Park Headquarters.

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Hike
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 6

9:30 am
The Road Less Traveled—A Dog-Friendly Walk
On this dog-friendly walk, we travel North Escape Road, a paved road closed to traffic. We tour stunning old-growth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. We'll discuss redwood ecology and park history while exploring the deep shade of the redwood forest. This is a fun, easy, 3-mile, 2-hour walk with Docent Diane Shaw. Dogs not required, but welcome! Bring water. Meet at Park Headquarters.

10-2:30
Hike to Ocean View Summit
Escape the crowds on this 6-mile loop through shaded forest to a hilltop view of the coast. Join Docent Steve Stolper as we climb the Meteor Trail through the trees, gaining 600 feet before emerging at Ocean View Summit. After a relaxed lunch we descend back into the forest and return to headquarters. Bring at least one liter of water, lunch, snacks, and appropriate clothing. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 8

9:30 am
Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with Docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 12

9 am
Volunteer with the Trail Crew
Since 1969 the Big Basin Volunteer Trail Crew has helped make it possible for others to safely enjoy the beauty of our park. The Trail Crew meets the second Saturday of each month, rain or shine. A typical workday lasts until mid-afternoon. Please bring your own work gloves, lunch and water. Join us for a unique perspective of Big Basin, a lively and productive experience with others who share a love of these redwood forests, and the satisfaction of participating in a vital part of the park's ability to educate and inspire the public! Meet at Park Headquarters.

9:30 am
Exploring Big Basin Hike
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on this fun, varied hike with Docent Zane Moore. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 4 hours. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, Zane will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Hike
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

2:30 pm
Measuring Tall Trees
How do you measure the tallest trees in the world? Join Zane Moore, a redwood researcher, to learn about measuring these tall, tall trees. Zane will show you how scientists determine the height, size and ages of these trees. We’ll look at the history and future directions of tree measurement from cameras to lasers to drones. This 1-mile, 90-minute walk will take us to where technology and trees meet. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 13

9:30 am
Berry Creek Falls Hike
Travel deep into the heart of Big Basin as you experience a wide range of habitats on this moderate to strenuous 11-mile-loop hike. Wind through shady redwood canyons and climb dry ridges as you hike to the jewel of Big Basin—65-foot Berry Creek Falls. Bring lots of water, lunch and wear layers. Docent Bill Rhoades will guide you on this seven-hour hike. Meet at Park Headquarters.

9:30 am
The Road Less Traveled—A Dog-Friendly Walk
On this dog-friendly walk, we travel North Escape Road, a paved road closed to traffic. We tour stunning old-growth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. We'll discuss redwood ecology and park history while exploring the deep shade of the redwood forest. This is a fun, easy, 3-mile, 2-hour walk with Docent Diane Shaw. Dogs not required, but welcome! Bring water. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 15

9:30 am
Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with Docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at Park Headquarters.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 18

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SATURDAY JANUARY 19

10:00 am
Hidden Gems: Flowers of Big Basin!
There are many less-famous, yet still beautiful, plants in the redwood forest. Join Docent Kathy Willott on thisfour-mile, three-hour walk and meet some of the hidden gems of Big Basin! Bring water and lunch. Meet at Park Headquarters. Heavy rain cancels.

10:30 am
What's that Bird? Walk
This easy, 1-mile stroll introduces you to the birds of the redwood forest. Beginner birders are welcomed! Bring binoculars if you have them–but they’re not required. Meet at Headquarters.

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Hike
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

12:30-4:30 pm
Reptiles and Amphibians Talk and Walk
Talk: 12:30-2:30, including question period
Walk: 2:30-4:30(ish)
Explore the fascinating variety of reptiles and amphibians found throughout Santa Cruz County, from the common to the rarely seen, through a talk and then a walk. What will also cover what makes each individual species unique and interesting? What’s a herp? Where do they live? The talk with herpetologist Lawrence Erickson will be followed by a field trip to observe some of the common herpetofauna of Big Basin in their natural environment. Meet: in the Old Lodge for slide presentation, then join us for a walk around that area after.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 20

9:30-12:30
Coffee Talk and Crafts
Come to the Sempervirens Room next to Park Headquarters for free coffee or hot chocolate! This is a great way to start your day in Big Basin. Big Basin Docents will be happy to answer your questions about the park and help get you going on the right trail. And bring the kids for a fun craft activity!

9:30 am
The Road Less Traveled—A Dog-Friendly Walk
On this dog-friendly walk, we travel North Escape Road, a paved road closed to traffic. We tour stunning old-growth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. We'll discuss redwood ecology and park history while exploring the deep shade of the redwood forest. This is a fun, easy, 3-mile, 2-hour walk with Docent Diane Shaw. Dogs not required, but welcome! Bring water. Meet at Park Headquarters.

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Hike
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 22

9:30 am
Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with Docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at Park Headquarters.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 25

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 26

12 pm
Discover Big Basin Hike
Explore the park’s less travelled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Meet at Park Headquarters.

12-3 pm
Snakes Alive!
Why are snakes important to us? How do they see, smell, taste, hear? What and how do they eat? What does a snake feel like? Come to the Sempervirens Room at Park Headquarters and meet Docent Diane Shaw and learn about the fascinating world of snakes. Stop by anytime to meet the snake and talk to Diane.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 27

9:30 am
The Road Less Traveled—A Dog-Friendly Walk
On this dog-friendly walk, we travel North Escape Road, a paved road closed to traffic. We tour stunning old-growth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. We'll discuss redwood ecology and park history while exploring the deep shade of the redwood forest. This is a fun, easy, 3-mile, 2-hour walk with Docent Diane Shaw. Dogs not required, but welcome! Bring water. Meet at Park Headquarters.

1 pm
Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 90-minute walk. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 29

9:30 am
Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with Docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. We go rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Meet at Park Headquarters.

Annual Events

Romance in the Redwoods
Saturday February 10, 2018 at 11:30am
On this easy 2 hour walk you will learn about the courtship behaviors of some of the park's most fascinating plants and animals. Join us and discover how banana slugs, redwood trees and more celebrate love in the wild! Meet at Park Headquarters.

Rancho del Oso - Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Salamander Saturday
Saturday March 3, 2018 from Noon to 4pm
Join us as the “Ranch of the Bear” becomes “Ranch of the Newt,” celebrating our amphibian friends that make their way from beneath rocks and under logs to the creeks, wetlands and puddles of the park.  Participate in our annual celebration honoring the often overlooked, but heroically well adapted amphibian. Live amphibians will be available for viewing. Ranger led salamander hike will start at 3pm on the mile long Marsh Trail. This free event is appropriate for all ages. Rancho del Oso is the coastal portion of Big Basin, located off Highway 1 in Davenport. For more information, please call (831) 427-2288, or email parksRDOPIS@parks.ca.gov.

Rancho del Oso - Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Wildflower Weekend
Saturday May 5, 2018 from 10am to 4 pm
Sunday May 6, 2018 from 10am to 4 pm
Guided hikes at 10am and 1pm on both Saturday and Sunday
Rancho del Oso’s annual Wildflower Weekend event displays over 80 plants in bloom including species found in the Waddell Valley, the coastal portion of Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The 10am hike is a moderately paced 4.5-mile hike along the Marsh Trail to the Skyline to the Sea Bypass Trail. The 1pm hike is a 1-mile wildflower excursion through multiple habitats along the Hoover Nature Trail. Rancho del Oso is the coastal portion of Big Basin, located off Highway 1 in Davenport. For more information, please call (831) 427-2288, or email parksRDOPIS@parks.ca.gov.

Mother’s Day Walk: Women of Big Basin
Sunday May 13, 2018 at 1pm
Celebrate Mother’s Day in the park by honoring the spirited women who lived in, worked in and fought for Big Basin throughout its history.  Living history reenactments bring you back in time where you will meet pioneer homemaker Alice Maddock; Josephine McCrackin, the “Savior of the Redwoods” and Harriet “Petey” Weaver, the first female Ranger. Stroll through the magnificent redwoods on this 0.5 mile, 1 hour guided walk. Meet at Park Headquarters. This walk is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

The Men of Big Basin—A Father’s Day Special Event
Sunday June 17, 2018 at 1pm
Celebrate Father’s Day by honoring some of the remarkable men who lived in, worked in and fought for Big Basin. Living history re-enactments bring you back in time where you will meet pioneer settlers, Big Basin founders and early park rangers. Stroll through the magnificent redwoods on this half mile, 1.5 hour guided walk. Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Meet at Park Headquarters.

Fourth of July Weekend Celebration and Talent Show!
Saturday July 7, 2018 at 7pm
Come and celebrate Independence Day with a campfire, sing-a-long and talent show! If you have a skit, poem, song or a talent you would like to share, sign up at headquarters in advance. All 3-5 minute presentations should be appropriate for all ages. Fire lighting and marshmallows (we provide the sticks and marshmallows!) at 7 pm; program begins at 7:30 pm.

Tales of the Basin—A Storytelling Weekend Event
Saturday July 28, 2018 - Various times and locations.
The oral storytelling tradition comes to life with the ancient redwood forest as a backdrop. Events throughout the weekend include Big Basin Nature Tails for children of all ages, guided walks that spin a yarn along the trail and a Storyteller Showcase in the historic Campfire Center. Presented in collaboration with South Bay Storytellers and Listeners.

Big Basin Founders’ Day and Redwood Jubilee
Saturday September 29, 2018 from 9am to 8pm
Celebrate our wild heritage with a melodrama, historic hikes and games for kids as we honor the visionaries, valued workers and visitors that have shaped the character of Big Basin over the past 100+ years. Revel in the beauty of the majestic old growth redwoods that inspired the movement to Save the Trees! 

The Missing Arm
Saturday October 20, 2018; Registration begins at 6:30pm
History takes a tall tale twist as the saga of this early pioneer unfolds. The silly, slightly haunting tours around the redwood loop trail begin at 7 pm. Enjoy the redwoods on a fall night with music, storytelling and “Ranger Apples” around the campfire. All participants must register at Park Headquarters (registration opens at 6:30 pm).