This week’s hike took Lisa and me to the Santa Cruz mountains and Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Unfortunately for Maggie and Sally, the California State Park System does not allow dogs on the trails. Big Basin was established in 1902 and is the oldest State Park in California. The Coast Redwood tree is native to the United States and only grows along the coast from Southern Oregon to Central California.
The Coast Redwoods in Big Basin State Park were saved from being turned into lumber, shingles, railroad ties, and fence posts by the Sempervirens Club. The fund they created to purchase land from the lumber companies in May 1900 has now protected more than 53 square miles of redwood forest. Many of these ancient trees range in age from 1,000 to 2,500 years old. Some trees measure more than 300 feet tall with a 16 foot diameter.
The image above captures a young Redwood just getting its start surrounded by much bigger trees. By the end of our hike, Lisa and I covered 4.9 mile of trails through a very beautiful Grove of truly magnificent trees.
Red Dog Garage 
We hiked at Redwoods NP many years ago. Being surrounded by those massive beautiful trees is very humbling. Also provides some good perspective.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The image looking straight up into the trees was captured during a stop while laying on a picnic table. We stayed there for about 10 minutes being in the moment. The only noise was the wind in the trees, a nearby creek, and birds. These trees do give a perspective on life when on realizes how long they have been around.
LikeLiked by 1 person
from 1,000 to 2,500 years old… So glad these majestic trees were well protected.
Great photos, Patrick! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Amy! When you see the time line on the tree ring cross section, it gives a perspective on just how short our time is in life and how we need to make the most of each day.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for the reminder, Patrick.
The oldest tree I have ever seen was at the Capilano in Vancouver. It was 1,500 years old.
LikeLike
When we were in California, we hiked through Armstrong Redwoods State Forest. You took me back to how amazing it was. And how truly grateful we need to be to those who saved the forests for us. And I have the exact same shots on my phone as your 4 & 5! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve been to Armstrong Redwoods but Lisa has not. Since I am the hike planner, Armstrong is on my mental list. Every time I hike in the Redwoods, I am in awe of these giant trees and how they have survived. Glad I was able to bring back good memories.
LikeLike
Phenomenal trees, aren’t they, Patrick? How could you fail to enjoy this walk? 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Along the trail, we passed several families with young children. It was good to see parents taking their kids for a hike. Don’t see that too often.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very cool! I love all trees but there’s just something about those monsters that makes them extra special. Thanks for sharing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome. Big Basin is definitely a special place.
LikeLike