Hike to the Garden of Eden Swimming Hole

Felton, California

3.8/5

based on 11 reviews

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Distance

1.09 miles

Elevation Gain

259 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

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This is your new favorite spot for the times when you need a swim in Santa Cruz but don't feel like sporting a wetsuit. From the parking area, the river is a quick (but steep!) hike in. The hike is 10-15 minutes to the water. Add as much time as you want to rinse in the cool San Lorenzo waters.

Are the beaches of Santa Cruz too cold to swim in? Of course they are. But this swimming hole has your back. The Bay Area isn't blessed with a bounty of freely accessible, dog-friendly swimming holes. The Garden of Eden, just off Route 9 in the Henry Cowell Redwoods is one of them.

Park on the side of the road (arrive early to guarantee yourself a spot) and hike down the quick, steep trail to the water. The swimming hole known as "Garden of Eden" is clearly marked.

Looking for a more quiet adventure? Skip this more crowded spot and continue along to find your own cool, watery mecca. Feel free to bring your dog, but make sure Fido isn't scared of a little scramble...the descent isn't for the faint of heart.

Unfortunately dogs are NOT permitted.

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Hike to the Garden of Eden Swimming Hole Reviews

C L

Hike to the Garden of Eden Swimming Hole

12/01/17

Can get crowded on weekends with people enjoying themselves, but still a wonderful spot that involves an adventure to reach.

4.0

Cin Dy

Hike to the Garden of Eden Swimming Hole

08/04/17

In reference to the article, this is NOT a dog friendly area. In fact, you can get cited for having your dog down there. Pack your trash out! If you can carry it down there when it's full, you can carry it back to your car empty. There is NO TRASH SERVICE there. No glass allowed. No alcohol allowed. Jumping from rocks NOT allowed. FYI, a medivac helicopter out of there costs about $30,000 & it happens more than you would think. Someone died there last year. Be careful. Don't be an asshole.

2.0

Eric Hedstrand

Hike to the Garden of Eden Swimming Hole

12/14/16

Easy hike, but gets very crowded on nice days. The day I went had lots of dooshy people. I'd skip the most popular hole and hike further upriver to find someplace quieter. This is by no means an unknown swimming hole: it's mobbed most weekend days. Can be relaxing but prepare for blasting music and loud drunk people unless you hike far away from the popular spot.

2.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike to the Garden of Eden Swimming Hole

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Hike to the Garden of Eden Swimming Hole Reviews

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Observation Deck Loop in Henry Cowell Redwoods SP

Redwood Grove Loop

Camp at Henry Cowell Redwoods Campground

Hike the Rincon Fire Trail

Tree Climb Mount Hermon

Hike Fall Creek at Henry Cowell SP

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