Sand Plant Beach
Date: June 6, 2021
Destination: Sand Plant Beach
Trail: Old Cove Landing Trail
Wilder Ranch SP
Parking lot fee: $10
Jon & I used to love mountain biking and wanted to see if we could get back out there again. This time, we have a 1 year old so it would be a much more different trip to plan for. We bought the Thule Yepp Nexxt Mini Child Bike Seat which was designed for front carry, up to 33 lbs. We set Harley in it and biked around our neighborhood and surrounding trails. She seemed to enjoy it so we figured it was time to take her on a real adventure.
With a 1 year old, we wanted a trail that was short, easy, and with something fun for Harley. Santa Cruz has so many mountain biking trails for all difficulties and purposes, not to mention beautiful beaches. So how perfect is a short mountain biking trail TO AND FROM the beach!?! I mean, can it be any more perfect for a small family? Wilder Ranch State Park it is!
We decided to try out Ohlone Landing Trail to Ohlone Bluff Trail because it was along the coast and level elevation. Then, we had to figure out what gear to lug onto our bikes/backs. Without a baby, we usually just brought water, food, and emergency bike supplies. Adding a baby to the mix, we decided to take her camping foldable high chair so that she’d have a dedicated place to sit and eat. Looked ridiculous to have this strapped to our bikes BUT it was so helpful to be able to strap Harley down to a seat and have her eat lunch on her tray. Less messy, less sand in her food, and bonus —we all get to relax a little with her not being so mobile (lol).
We barely covered much of the map.
We didn’t really know what to expect so we just packed the bare essentials: emergency bike supplies, snacks, and lunch. Since Jon’s bike would be carrying Harley, we decided we could put the luggage rack and cooler on my bike. Definitely doesn’t look as cool and rugged anymore (lol).
Wilder Ranch SP has a parking lot with a $10 entrance fee. There are free first-come-first-served street parking along Highway 1, but didn’t want to risk being too far from the trailhead with a toddler.
The trail started off with the most beautiful wildflowers. It felt like a dream! (But also a late reminder to always pack allergy medicine!)
The views along the coast were fantastic! Even on a gloomy day, this trail was already becoming a top favorite. We made many stops along the way to take photos.
Okay, we didn’t really get too far because the first few beaches already looked nice and we didn’t want to push it with Harley’s patience! We settled with Sand Plant Beach.
We locked our bikes together to this wooden pole.
Then, we carefully walked down the cliff. The path down was not too steep. Just be careful with the loose slippery rocks/sand.
Needless to say, Harley loved the beach.
After a change in clothes and diapers, it was time to pack up. Harley definitely didn’t want to leave. I gave her a piece of sourdough from Zoccoli’s to keep her content. She’s a huge bread-lover and every time we are in Santa Cruz, we HAVE to stop by Zoccoli’s.
What a fun mini trip and great introduction to mountain biking for Harley. We definitely want to come back when the weather is sunny.