Skip to main content
SCENIC BYWAY

Santa Cruz Mountains Scenic Drive

34.1 miles: 1 hours, 4 minutes

In the greater San Francisco Bay Area, Santa Cruz Mountains Scenic Drive probably wins the award for the road less traveled. Most people take the major highways—US 101 and I-280—to get to points south. SR 1 is the scenic, leisurely coastal route. But if you’re up for adventure, explore this two-lane road that meanders through the Santa Cruz Mountains to the beachside city of the same name.

flickr/Meg Lauber

Head west on SR 9 from Saratoga, on San Jose's southwestern edge. The road is winding in spots but easy to drive, with pretty views and lots of pullouts along the way. At Castle Rock State Park you can hike through forests of coast redwood, Douglas fir and madrone trees. Farther south there are more old-growth redwoods to explore at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.

THE VALUE OF TRIP CANVAS

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

BACK TO TOP