Featured Trail: Six Bridges Trail
A classic visit to redwoods in the Santa Cruz mountains’ hidden gem
Length
2.2 miles
Rated
Easy*
Trail Type
Out & Back
Elevation Gain
200 feet
Looking for a moderate challenge in your health and wellness journey? Try this hidden gem at Butano State Park: Six Bridges Trail. It is a classic nature trail, with moderate inclines and occasional natural obstacles.
Although rated “easy” by California State Parks, this 2.2-mile out-and-back trail is often narrow, natural, and does change elevation by 200 feet. Dense vegetation may need navigation.
Forests, streams, birdsong, and occasional fog await, and be sure to look for the bat habitat viewing area along the way.
*Trail ratings vary and in this guide you will find information to make the best choice for your health and wellness goals.
Enjoy the health benefits of time in nature on Six Bridges Trail at Butano State Park in the Santa Cruz mountains.
Why is this a healthful experience?
Mill Ox Trail to Butano Fire Road
One of Butano State Park’s many beauties is best seen in spring—the park’s wild red rhododendrons. This stunning wildflower tree grows along the Butano Fire Road and can be seen on a moderately strenuous, approximately 6.5-mile roundtrip hike. To start your hike, drive into Butano State Park. The entrance to the Mill Ox Trail is past the kiosk/office on the entrance road and on your left. Look for a parking turnout and small footbridge across the creek. Hike up Mill Ox Trail through dense redwood forest to the Butano Fire Road. Turn right and hike about two miles up the road to the abandoned airstrip, enjoying the wide-open vistas of the coastal mountain range. In the spring, the rhododendrons are typically visible along the trail on your left a few hundred yards before the hairpin turn on the Fire Road near the airstrip. To return, hike back along the Butano Fire Road to the Jackson Flats Trail and loop back to the Mill Ox Trail.
Plan Your Hike
Address: Butano State Park, 1500 Cloverdale Road, Pescadero, California 94060
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Directions: click here for Google maps directions
Park Activities
- Hiking
- Nature & Wildlife Viewing
- Guided Tours
Park Amenities
- Picnic Areas
- Marine Education Center
- Natural History Exhibit
- Bookstore
- Theater
Volunteer
Throughout the year, Sempervirens Fund holds a variety of volunteer events, including invasive species removal, trail clean ups, and more! Check out our Volunteer Page for more information.
More to Explore
- Learn more about Butano State Park
- Visit the official Butano State Park website
- Mill Ox Trail Map
- Read about restoring the Butano Creek Watershed
- Find more redwood activities
- Find Volunteer opportunities at the park
