Going to See Madonna

Hike the Redwoods in Mount Madonna Park

03.18.2015

If you're going to see Madonna we're guaranteeing the venue is going to be amazing: high up in the Santa Cruz Mountains and dominated by redwood trees. Okay, we’re not talking "Like a Virgin" Madonna; we're talking like "Second-Growth Redwoods" Mount Madonna. This beautiful 3,200-acre park 10 miles west of Gilroy in the Santa Cruz Mountains has 20 miles of secluded hiking trails to explore.

For a moderate journey, take a 1.7-mile loop hike through towering redwoods fringed by green ferns and oak woodland. Start on the Sprig Trail for a brief stretch before joining up on Bayview Trail. Towering redwoods provide plenty of shade as the path traces a canyon and offers partial views of Monterey Bay to the west. You'll weave in and out of the forest on the Redwood, Iron Springs, and Blackhawk Trails. Keep an eye out for wildflowers and the region's famous banana slugs.

BONUS CAMPING AND YURTS: Mount Madonna has 116 drive-up and walk-in campsites that can be reserved, along with yurts in three different sizes. 

Mount Madonna Yurts

TIP: Fifteen minutes down the road, heading southwest, is Gizdich Ranch, famous for its apples and apple cider. It also has delicious melt-in-your-mouth berry pies and excellent deli sandwiches.

img_2194-image-jpeg

Mount Madonna County Park is on Highway 152, 10 miles west of Gilroy. Dog-friendly! 

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Bike to Aardvark Beach

    Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

    View

  2. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

    View

  4. Peak at the Flowers

    Terrific views and vibrant hues define this 4.8-mile out-and-back journey on Mount Diablo.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

    View
  2. Woman on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley National Park

    Starry Night & Dark Sky Adventures

    You don’t have to stay out all that late to experience eminent stargazing at Death Valley National Park. The park's been given the highest ranking of darkness by the International Dark Sky Association. From ranger-led to self-guided adventures, here are a few amazing ways to witness the mesmerizing night sky at Death Valley.

    View

  3. Tree Town

    Home to an estimated 21,000 trees and 100 acres of parkland, South Pasadena has earned its nickname: the City of Trees. This 2.5-mile neighborhood walk lets you experience its leafy canopy up close, winding through charming streets and three of the city’s beloved parks.

    View
  4. Fountain to Falls trail Monrovia

    Fountain to the Falls

    There are three ways to reach the lovely Monrovia Canyon Falls, but only one of them is worthy of being named a good challenge, with a lovely old town stroll included.

    View