Forest of Nisene Marks State Park
Located 4 miles north of Aptos, Forest of Nisene Marks offers 10,000 acres of rugged semi-wilderness, rising from sea level to steep coastal mountains of more than 2,600 feet. There are 30 miles of trails nestled in this second growth forest, which are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or a leisurely stroll. Horses are allowed on a portion of the fire road and some trails. The epicenter of the October 17, 1989, Loma Prieta earthquake was in this park.
Five Finger Falls is another popular site in the park, reachable by a circuitous route up Aptos Creek Road, past White's Lagoon, and down the Big Slide Trail. (The Aptos Creek trail was closed in 2007 due to a landslide.)
Activities: Camping, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Horseback Riding
BACKPACKING: The Park has six trail campsites, a 6-mile intermediate level hike (one way). Camping is first come, first served. Sites can accommodate up to six persons each, and have picnic tables and pit toilets. Water not available, must be packed in. Reservations required.
Information website: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=666
Map Link (beta): https://www.google.com/maps?q=37.0329085,-121.8925277
Bookings: