What to Expect During Your Santa Cruz Visit

We can't wait to show you our amazing forest in Santa Cruz! We put this article together to help you feel prepared.
couple and guide walking at a forest visit

We can’t wait to show you our amazing forest in Santa Cruz! We want you to feel fully prepared, so we’ve put together this short article to answer any questions you might have.

6 Key Things to Know Prior to Your Visit

  1. At no time will you feel pressured to purchase a tree. We pride ourselves on providing a positive, memorable experience, whether or not you find your tree.
  2. Most tours take about 45-90 minutes and consist of a guided walk around the forest with one of our Forest Stewards. However, you can spend as much or as little time in the forest as you’d like.
  3. Pets are allowed in the forest. Bring your dog!
  4. We are currently landscaping some areas of the forest. Please wear appropriate shoes (sneakers or hiking boots) and layered clothing.
  5. Insects are a seasonal part of the forest. We offer various forms of pet deterrence, but please bring your own bug spray if you have a preference.
  6. The forest is in the Santa Cruz mountains. Getting to this beautiful location requires driving on mountain roads and losing cell service at times. Please refer to our main directions webpage to plan your drive.

Details About Your Guided Forest Tour

When you arrive at the forest, you will be greeted by one of our Forest Guides. 

You will then have a chance to use the restroom, grab a snack, and relax in our temporary visitor’s center.

The tour itself consists of a 45-90 minute walk through all sections of the forest. Our Forest Guides will help you keep track of your favorite trees.

During your tour, feel free to ask questions about our company, our forests, and the services included with your memorial tree.

 

Our Forests are Natural and Beautifully Landscaped Areas

It’s our goal to provide a beautiful experience for every visitor. We actively manage the forest so it can return to its old-growth state.

This means ensuring that trees are healthy and have room to grow.

We’ve built trails to make touring easier, but please keep in mind that it’s a natural environment and wear sneakers or hiking boots.

Forest Contact Information

If you have questions leading up to your tour, you can get in touch with the Santa Cruz team directly via phone or email:

Phone/Text: 831-531-7810

Email: care@betterplaceforests.org

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If you’re looking for a meaningful way to honor a loved one, you can still explore Memorial Trees on our main site.

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You can continue to find a Memorial Tree and plan memorial services at BetterPlaceForest.com—same mission, same forests.