Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument Trailhead — Attraction in Boulder Creek

Nicely designed new hiking trails. Three loops total, of which I only had time for the first two (about 4.5 miles of hiking). The “Tree” loop was a very pleasant hike along steep slopes of mostly young redwoods, while the first “Hawk” loop was mostly on open terrain with nice ocean views.

Very helpful ranger at the parking lot gave good advice on where to hike and in what directions in the time we had before sunset. He even helped my friend’s little brush with poison oak (from an earlier hike) with some alcohol and salve.

Unfortunately this park may end up as a prime destination for dog walkers. I say “unfortunately” because, despite the very clear signing “dogs on leash only”, and rules stating people must pick up after their dogs, we encountered a couple of off-leash dogs and smelled dog poop in numerous places along the Hawk loop. Also saw one barely-controlled dog barking and lunging at one of the cows near the parking lot. I have nothing against dogs, but over-entitled dog owners who refuse to follow perfectly sensible rules are something...

Hike: 8/26/25 Tuesday 2:09pm, one big loop all trails traversed, counterclockwise. Large dirt lot, easy parking on a Tuesday afternoon, maybe different on the weekend. Two bathrooms at the start, I did not notice any water fountain. No restrooms or water on the trail. First two miles in the sun, a shaded bench at mile 1.13. Then into the woods, tree cover for most of the next 3-4 miles, this segment was much fun. Final two miles back to the start, out in the open, views of the ocean. According to the Strava app, 9.12 miles total and 1373 feet total elevation. Five stars for everyone involved with the creation of...

August 2025: newly opened hiking trails with 2 large trailhead boards with a map and lots of extra info

Two bathrooms in the gravel parking lot, no water fountain. Three picnic benches.

Free gravel parking lot probably has about 60 standard car length spots. Very large or long cars may not fit easily. Lot will likely fill up quickly on weekends.

Enter Cement Plant Rd at the intersection of Davenport Landing Rd (northern side) instead of being routed by Maps incorrectly to a local small road.

There are 2 Cotoni-Coast Dairies signs on the east side of the road, next to the...