Mystery Spot Hiking Trail

The Mystery Spot Hiking Trail is a loop hiking trail just about1 mile in length easily accessible from the Mystery Spot picnic area.The trail climbs through the redwoods and up to a eucalyptus grove on the hillside in the area above Santa Cruz. Beginning at the top of the parking area, the trail passes a wooden platform perched over the picnic area, opening to views of the wooded hillside. From there, a clearly marked single track path makes its way through scenic trees as it loops higher in elevation before descending back toward the trailhead.The redwood trees are the highlight here, as the path gives perspective of just how towering these trees can be. Oak and eucalyptus groves are passed as well. The trail is on land owned by the Mystery Spot who maintain a series of interpretive cards describing the species of flora that can be observed on the hike.At under a mile in length, the trail is promoted by the Mystery Spot as something that can be hiked while waiting for your tour to begin and is generally pretty easy with a few short steep slopes. It probably is not worth a visit on its own, however the picturesque views of the redwood trees make it something worth doing if you find yourself in the area.There is no cost to hike the trail, however the Mystery Spot asks for a $5 per vehicle parking fee. Bathrooms, snacks, drinks and gift shop are available at the Mystery Spot tour area across the parking lot from the trailhead.