Rancho Del Oso Nature and History Center facts for kids
The Rancho Del Oso Nature and History Center is a special place that helps you learn about the history and nature of the Rancho del Oso area. Rancho del Oso means "ranch of the bear." This area became part of California's Big Basin Redwoods State Park in the 1970s. You can find the center on Highway 1, about 16 miles north of Santa Cruz, California.
Exploring Rancho Del Oso
Rancho del Oso has many trails that let you explore different parts of the park. You can discover wet marshes, green meadows, and flowing creeks. There are also thick forests with hardwood trees and pine trees. You can even see very old redwood groves and beautiful waterfalls!
Trails and Nature
The trails at Rancho del Oso come in many different lengths. Some are short, like one mile, perfect for a quick walk. Others are very long, up to 13 miles, for a big adventure! This area is a newer part of Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
Where is Rancho Del Oso?
Rancho del Oso is right on the Pacific Ocean coast at Waddell Beach. Here, Waddell Creek flows from the Santa Cruz Mountains into the ocean. The center is also near the end of a famous long hiking path called the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail. If you want to reach the main Big Basin park area from here, you can only do it by hiking on these trails.
