New National Monument Near Santa Cruz w/ Ocean View Trails

A brand new stretch of coastal wilderness is opening up this summer just 15 minutes north of Santa Cruz. On August 15, 2025 the 5,800-acre Cotoni-Coast Dairies National Monument will officially welcome the public for the first time since being designated by President Barack Obama in 2017 as part of the larger California Coastal National Monument.

Visitors can explore nine miles of new multi-use trails that wind through redwood forests, creek-lined canyons, and rolling marine terraces with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. The land was once a working ranch and dairy, and it’s now been transformed into a preserved space for hiking, biking, and wildlife protection.

The initial trail network includes three loop trails, accessible from a new parking area just north of Davenport near Warrenella and Cement Plant roads. More trails and a second access point are in the works. This first phase includes paths designed for hikers, cyclists, and even adaptive bikes, making it one of the most scenic new outdoor spots in the Bay Area.

Thanks to SF Chronicle for the scoop.