California State Parks and Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks announced the return of a free weekend and holiday shuttle service to Big Basin Redwoods State Park this summer, aimed at improving access while long-term facilities continue to be rebuilt following the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire.
The ADA-accessible, 14-passenger shuttle will run in a continuous loop from the Saddle Mountain overflow parking area, located at Highway 236 and Little Basin Road, to the main day-use area near the park’s historic core, officials said.
Service will operate from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. The shuttle includes a bike rack for two bicycles.
Parking at the Saddle Mountain lot is first-come, first-served for a $10 fee, with all State Parks passes accepted, officials noted.
Visitors may also reserve parking at the main day-use area in advance for $8, which includes a $6 entrance fee and a $2 reservation fee. All California State Parks passes are honored; however, the reservation fee still applies.
Public transportation access to the park is available through Santa Cruz METRO’s Route 35, which runs five times daily, including weekends and holidays.
Free parking is available at the Scotts Valley METRO Station, and bus riders pay $2 per trip or $6 for a day pass. K-12 students ride free with a valid student ID. Riders who arrive via METRO receive free entry and guaranteed park access.
More information is available at thatsmypark.org/bigbasin.Â