5/30/2026 Castle Rock SP

Guided Hike- Castle Rock Trail

Join us on the famous Castle Rock Loop trail! This easy 1.5 mile loop takes you by the park's namesake and biggest sandstone formation. Castle Rock has many tafoni, where the rock is eroded to form pits, pockets, honeycombs, caves, ribs, and ridges.

Please RSVP at https://SantaCruzStateParks.as.me/?appointmentType=category:Castle%20Rock%20State%20Park , although walk-ins are welcome as well.

We'll leave from park headquarters and hike gently uphill to Castle Rock, learning about the geology and history of the area and observing the many rock climbers before looping back to headquarters. This hike is rated “easy” but has some uphill sections.

Bring at least one liter of water, snacks, and appropriate clothing. Rain cancels. Meet at Park Headquarters. Vehicle day-use fee is $10.