Rockin' Park

Hike at Castle Rock State Park in the South Bay

06.07.2023

Looking for a rocking good hike? Add boulders! Whether you enjoy scaling rock faces, prefer some light scrambling, or just want to admire nature’s sculpted formations, this 4.5-mile hike in Castle Rock State Park has adventures for all kinds.

From the Robert C. Kirkwood Entrance, start on the Saratoga Gap Trail past the picnic area and the enormous redwood roots on display. A gentle downhill slope goes to King’s Creek and the intersection with the Ridge Trail. Keep left and follow Saratoga Gap Trail to the overlook. This is a great spot to watch rock climbers ascending the sheer pitch below, and to see the seasonal waterfall.

Continuing, enjoy the rolling green Santa Cruz Mountains scenery, and—on the horizon—a silver glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. As the trail becomes increasingly rocky (all scrambling is family-friendly, but small children may need assistance), be on the lookout for bright red Indian paintbrush flowers alongside the trail.

After passing the overnight campsites, stay right on the Ridge Trail to begin a steady ascent into the shady forest. Stop at the Emily Smith Observation Point and soak up the views before continuing on to Goat Rock. This is a popular spot for climbers, and sure-footed hikers can make their way to the top of the boulders to watch the action below. (There are no safety railings here, so children should stick to the trail.)

The remaining stretch of the Ridge Trail is filled with rock formations, including small caves and tunnels. At the intersection with the Saratoga Gap Trail, turn left and retrace the route back to the parking lot. (Bonus Adventure: On the way back to the parking lot, turn right onto Castle Rock Trail to visit the massive, otherworldly Castle Rock. This is a popular destination for rock climbing and bouldering and adds an extra mile to the hike.)

Castle Rock State Park is located on Skyline Blvd. in Los Gatos. From Hwy. 9 in Saratoga, turn left onto Skyline Blvd. (Hwy. 35). After 2.5 miles, turn right into the parking lot. The Kirkwood Entrance is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. $10 day-use fee. No dogs.

Story and photos by Heather Werner, @heath.wer.ner

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