Sanborn County Park

Sanborn County Park is a protected landscape in the Santa Cruz Mountains covering thousands of acres of natural terrain. Multiple trails wind through mixed forests dominated by second-growth redwoods and connect different areas of the park.

The property was developed in its early years by Judge James R. Welch, who built a mansion on the land in 1908. The building later served a different purpose and became part of the park's modern history.

The Ohlone people, the original inhabitants of this region, left traces that remain visible today, including an old grinding stone at the park entrance. These remnants tell the story of a long human presence in these mountains.

The park offers various lodging options, including camping and walk-in tent sites for different needs and preferences. Picnic areas with grilling facilities are located throughout the park for visitors who want to cook outdoors.

The park sits on a geologically notable line where the San Andreas Fault runs through the grounds, allowing visitors to walk between two tectonic plates. This rare geological feature makes the area particularly interesting for scientists and curious hikers.