The Santa Cruz Mountains (Mutsun Ohlone: Mak-sah-re-jah, "Sharp Ridged Mountain of the Eagle" or "People of the Eagle Mountain") are a mountain range in central and Northern California, United States, constituting a part of the Pacific Coast Ranges.

The Santa Cruz Mountains span the San Francisco Peninsula, separating the San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean and the inland Santa Clara Valley. The range continues from the Bay Area down the California Central Coast to the Salinas Valley near Monterey Bay, covering parts of San Mateo, San Benito, Monterey, and Santa Clara counties.

Mar 26, 2025 · Discover the best peaks in the Santa Cruz Mountains in our guide, containing tips, pictures and maps of the top 20 in the region. Recommended by other members of the komoot community, simply find the one you like most and plan your adventure to it in just a few clicks!

The Santa Cruz Mountains Bioregion encompasses all that area that receives rainfall drainage off the mountain range. It is bordered by the Pacific Ocean and Monterey Bay on the west and San Francisco Bay and the Santa Clara Valley on the east.

Apr 25, 2021 · From redwoods to coastal views, these are the best Santa Cruz hikes from a local who grew up hiking them. There’s a lot to love about Santa Cruz but perhaps one of the biggest draws to this coastal town is just how much nature there is to explore within the county.

Jan 23, 2025 · The Santa Cruz Mountains are a special part of Northern California that almost feels hidden and secret, as so many people drive right from Los Gatos to Santa Cruz Boardwalk without every stopping to see anything else.

The Santa Cruz Mountain Backcountry Trail Camps provide an incredible wilderness experience in the backyard of the San Francisco Bay Area. These trail camps are located within thousands of acres of redwood forest and are connected by an extensive trail system, spanning from the skyline ridge tops down to the Pacific Ocean.

Oct 14, 2020 · Escape to nature with an easy, woodsy weekend retreat to the Santa Cruz Mountains. Book a tasting at one of the region’s wineries, such as the iconic Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello estate.

Outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts love to explore the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Hiking through old-growth redwood forests or to mountaintop ocean vistas, the many state parks and open spaces in the county provide endless exploration for visitors and locals alike.

The Santa Cruz Mountains are a beautiful mountain range from northern to central California that runs adjacent to the Pacific Ocean. They’re packed with dramatic views, excellent wineries, restaurants, and plenty of adventurous activities.