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Cable Car Beach
4.8 ★★★★★ 32 Google reviews · Running trail in Santa Cruz, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Cable Car Beach yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Cable Car Beach
“The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting.”
“The water was very peaceful during our visit, and there was also a small waterfall toward the back of the area, which was nice to see.”
Nice easy trail, good place to splash around. The water is cold, so unless you like that I would recommend wading over swimming.
Cable Car Beach is a hidden gem within Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, offering a tranquil spot to relax by the river. My family and I enjoyed wading in the shallow waters and skipping stones, making it a fun and refreshing stop after a hike.
If you want to challenge yourself, hike through this river to reach the Garden of Eden, starting from here.
Trail conditions & character
“The water was very peaceful during our visit, and there was also a small waterfall toward the back of the area, which was nice to see.”
“The water was very peaceful during our visit, and there was also a small waterfall toward the back of the area, which was nice to see.”
Plan your run at Cable Car Beach
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
Running trails near Santa Cruz
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 408 reviews
Picturesque wilderness area featuring a riverside loop trail & a natural swimming hole.
Bear Mountain
4.8 ★★★★★ 149 reviews
Family-friendly hiking area with scenic redwood forests and a historic steam train ride.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 8,229 reviews
Featuring a variety of forested areas, this park offers camping, fishing, hiking & picnic spots.
Powder Mill Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 44 reviews
Kid- and dog-friendly area with trails for hiking.
U-Conn Trail Head
4.5 ★★★★★ 34 reviews