Wilder Ranch State Park

Wilder Ranch State Park is one of my favorite hiking destinations. Even if you’re not into hiking, there’s plenty to do at this popular nature preserve.

There are easy, moderate, and strenuous trails for hikers and mountain bikers alike, both inland and along the coast. I especially enjoy the Ohlone Bluff Trail in the summer when it’s hot inland. Hawks circle overhead, pelicans dive into the chilly water to catch fish, and cormorants sun themselves on rocky outcroppings. There are spectacular picture-perfect ocean vistas of massive cliffs carved by centuries of wave action. Between December and April you might spot migrating grey whales just offshore. I’ve often seen seals lounging on the beaches below as well as sea otters floating nearby. The trails along the bluff are flat but if you’re adventurous you can scramble down to one of several beaches where you can explore a fern grotto (at Marker Post 8) or maybe wade into a tide pool to see the colorful sea anemones at low tide.

All-day parking is $10 per car (or $9 for seniors) and it’s worth it if you want to support this amazing park. There are clean restrooms at the parking lot.

This former ranch and dairy is also a terrific destination for history buffs. You can stroll around the complex of historic buildings, including an 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse, a red tile-roofed adobe, and the beautifully preserved Queen Anne Victorian home that California pioneer Deloss Wilder built for his family in 1897. There are plenty of picnic tables. Docents are often available for guided tours on weekends. The water-powered machine shop, built in 1896, is fascinating. Kids will enjoy seeing the farm animals up close.

I highly recommend Wilder Ranch State Park. It’s ideal for hiking, biking, families, and especially out-of-town visitors who want a classic Northern California coastal experience.