Five Finger Falls in Nisene Marks State Park: A Hidden Gem in California's Redwood Realm
Amid the ancient redwoods and lush greenery of Nisene Marks State Park in California, nature enthusiasts discover a lesser-known treasure: Five Finger Falls. This enchanting waterfall, named for the five distinct cascades that resemble fingers, offers a serene retreat for those looking to escape the bustle of urban life. Tucked away in Aptos, near Santa Cruz, Nisene Marks State Park and its cascading wonder provide a glimpse into the tranquil beauty of California's coastal forests.
My Trip to Five Finger Falls
Five Finger Falls is a waterfall located in The Forest of Nisene Marks. Niesen Marks is a state park within Santa Cruz, California. Five Finger Falls is arguable the best waterfall in the park. The fall offers a small, cold water pool beneath it which allows hikers to take a refreshing dip.
Niesen Marks park is frequented by mountain bikers and trail runners. Even on some of the hiking trails, you can find mountain bikers quickly riding downhill despite signs for no bikes. It's important to always be aware of the bikers on the Fire Creek Road but, also on the hiking trails, to prevent an accident.
I made it to Niesen Marks from San Francisco, CA in one day by renting a car at 7:00AM and starting on the trail at about 9:30AM. Due to a wrong turn while hiking and some time spent droning, the hike took me 10 hours to complete. I returned to San Francisco at around 9:30PM.
During the hike, I droned, which added time. See the edited Five Finger Falls video here.
Directions
The parking lot for the trail is the Porter Picnic Area Parking Lot. This is at the end of the park. From here, make your way up Aptos Creek Fire Road. As of September 8th, 2018, the normal route of taking Aptos Creek Trail off of the fire road is closed due to a landslide. Accessing the waterfall is more difficult now because of this detour, it requires taking Aptos Creek Fire Road to Big Slide Trail which reconnects with Aptos Creek Trail. It is easy to take a wrong turn on Big Slide Trail near White's Lagoon and end up heading to a different segment of Aptos Creek Fire Road.
The park ranger indicated that the detoured route is approximately 14 miles round trip. It is important to stay on the trail at all times to prevent backtracking. There were no signs off of the fire road for the trail until reaching Aptos Creek Trail.
Information On The Hike
- The park costs money to enter if you are parking inside, it was $8 (cash, they don't take credit) as of September 8th, 2018.
- Bring bug spray as there are mosquitoes on this trail.
- There is a small risk of mountain lions so make noise if hiking alone.
- Deer frequently roam the park.
- See the Nisen Marks trail map here.
Discovering Five Finger Falls
Five Finger Falls is not the largest waterfall you'll encounter, but its charm lies in its unique configuration. The water spills over moss-covered rocks in five distinct streams, creating a harmonious blend of sound and sight. The falls are most voluminous in the late winter and early spring when recent rains swell the streams.
The Journey to the Falls
Getting to Five Finger Falls requires a bit of an adventure, as it’s nestled deep within the park. The hike to the falls is approximately 7 miles round trip, taking adventurers through a varied landscape. The trail meanders through towering redwood groves, crosses babbling streams, and provides glimpses of the region's diverse flora and fauna.
While the trail is considered moderate in difficulty, the occasional muddy patch or fallen tree might pose challenges. Still, the journey's rewards – the sight and sound of the cascading falls – make every step worthwhile.
Flora and Fauna
Nisene Marks State Park is a haven for biodiversity. As hikers make their way to the falls, they’ll be enveloped by the towering presence of coastal redwoods, some of which are over 100 feet tall. The forest floor is carpeted with ferns, and the canopy above resonates with bird songs. It's not uncommon to spot woodpeckers, black-tailed deer, and the tracks of elusive bobcats.
Park Amenities and Tips
The park offers various amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and well-marked trails. If you're considering the hike to Five Finger Falls:
- Start early to ensure you have ample time for the round trip.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Check the weather forecast; the trail can become slippery after rains.
- Always stay on designated paths to minimize your impact on the environment.
Conclusion
Five Finger Falls in Nisene Marks State Park stands as a testament to the quiet wonders of nature that often go unnoticed in the shadow of grander landmarks. This cascade, with its delicate streams and serene surroundings, is a must-visit for those seeking a more intimate and peaceful connection with California's majestic coastal forests. As with any natural site, visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism, ensuring that such hidden gems remain pristine for generations to come.
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