A free shuttle program is returning to Big Basin Redwoods State Park to serve travelers this Memorial Day weekend and through the summer.
The 14-passenger, Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible shuttle will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Service begins this weekend and will continue until Labor Day, Sept. 1.
The shuttle will operate in a loop from the Saddle Mountain overflow parking area, at the intersection of Highway 236 and Little Basin Road, to the main day-use area near the heart of the park. Parking reservations are recommended to ensure availability and cost $8.
In addition to the shuttle program, visitors can park for free at the Scotts Valley Metro station and take the No. 35 bus directly to Big Basin. Those arriving by Metro bus get free entry and guaranteed park access.
California State Parks and Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks introduced the summer shuttle program last year as they redevelop resources lost in the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex fire.
The CZU fire burned more than 97% of Big Basin and nearly all of its structures. Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks recorded the fire’s devastation in a short 2021 documentary.
Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks also manages Big Basin’s current limited access day-use reservation system.
The park has been open in a limited capacity since July 2022. In addition to the shuttle service, hikers can now enjoy an interim visitor center and over 17 miles of restored trails.
To plan a trip to Big Basin, visit the Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks website.
Have news that should be in Lookout Briefs? Send your press releases, including contact information, to news@lookoutlocal.com.
