Events - Event View

Wilder Ranch State Park, Paint Site or Hike & Sketch, 1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, 95060 

Thursday, November 6, 2025 

map 

http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=549

Link to Paintsites Blogspot past visit

You may paint historic ranch buildings or the scenic coastline.  Several restored buildings once belonging to the Wilder family are preserved. The site was originally the main rancho supplying Santa Cruz Mission later becoming a successful dairy ranch. Surrounding grounds include Victorian homes, gardens, and historic adobe, old stables and garage, so lots of subject matter for those who want to paint here. The visitor center and store arebscheduled to be open while we are there.

For those wishing to paint the coastline and ocean it is about a 2/3-mile hike from the parking lot to the first beach overlook.  You may stop and paint along the trail or hike on the trail for our usual hike and sketch format of sketching for 20-30 minutes, walking farther for another fine view of the coastline, sketching again, etc.  Bring lunch and drinks on the trail, wear sturdy shoes, hat, and layered clothing, and travel light on the art supplies.  This is a 3 mile - loop trail so you can return at any time.

Directions: Take Highway 17 to Santa Cruz.  Turn north on Highway 1 and drive about 3.8 miles.  Turn left on Coast Road at the sign to Wilder Ranch State Park.  Carpools recommended due to distance from Bay Area and State Park entrance fee.

Attendance: Attendance is free and is open to all SCVWS members.

Email: paintsites@scvws.org