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Pogonip Open Space
4.5 ★★★★★ 462 Google reviews · Running trail in Santa Cruz, California · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- 4 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Pogonip Open Space's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. 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.
Scenic open space offering a hiking & biking trail network amid redwood & oak forests & slopes.
What runners say about Pogonip Open Space
“I wish I could let you hear, see and experience just how beautiful Pogonip really is, but you'll have to do that for yourselves.”
“Regular walkers do this 4 mile easy walk with friends and families.”
Pogonip was good enough, but not amazing. Very nice options for trails, some shady trails, some open space trails, some great views, spotted a deer, and some good exercise, but no trail gets a five star from me unless there is something spectacular to see, like a waterfall - and the Lost Boys House is cool, but not…
This is probably one of the best places close to town to get away. Pogonip has a long history. Once was a ranch then a country club, now its a city park. The trails are well maintained and east flow to follow.
Hiked the loop at Pogonip which is an energizing 5 mile hike through redwoods with small brooks and streams, visiting the old clubhouse, lime kilns and of the course visiting the koi point. Breath taking views of the Pacific from the start of the hike. Best hiking location in bay area if you get an opportunity to go.
A local treasure of family friendly trails. Both meadow and forest with lots to explore. Highly recommend the loop trail. Don’t miss the hidden koi pond and rock cairns on another visit. Limited parking, but with multiple trailheads (Spring Street, Golf Course Dr, etc.
Trail conditions & character
“If you travel to, visit, or even li e in Santa Cruz, CA don't miss the spectacular and inspiring views of one of the gems of Santa Cuz.”
“Limited parking, but with multiple trailheads (Spring Street, Golf Course Dr, etc.”
Plan your run at Pogonip Open Space
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- Loop distance4 mi back to where you parked
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Websitecityofsantacruz.com
- Phone(831) 420-5270
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.
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