Spend five active hours learning shelter building, fire-by-friction, water collection, and basic foraging in a redwood forest north of Santa Cruz. This hands-on clinic balances primitive techniques with modern safety and is suitable for beginners and experienced outdoorspeople.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The forest opens before you in columns of redwood trunks, cool shade pooling on the needle-strewn floor as instructors move with the easy confidence of people who read weather and wood. In this five-hour clinic north of Santa Cruz, participants trade theory for hands-on practice: rubbing a spindle until coals glow, weaving a debris shelter that holds heat, and locating clear water as the nearby creek dares you to test its current.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be comfortable with short hikes, kneeling, and moderate physical activity.
Wildlife
History
The Santa Cruz Mountains are on traditional Ohlone territory and later supported logging towns; remnants of that era shaped today’s patchwork of preserved redwood stands.
Conservation
Programs emphasize Leave No Trace and respect for sensitive riparian zones; wildlands here face fire risk and benefit from low-impact recreation and responsible foraging.
Reserve your spot on the Introduction to Wilderness Survival Clinic in Santa Cruz today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring layered clothing
Temperatures in the redwoods can swing; wear breathable base layers plus a windproof outer layer for coastal fog and wind.
Hydrate before you arrive
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water; instructors cover purification, but you’ll want personal water for the active session.
Wear durable footwear
Expect rooty, uneven terrain—light hiking boots or trail shoes with ankle support reduce slips and sore feet.
Plan for dirt and kneeling
Bring a small sit pad or durable pants; many exercises require kneeling or sitting on the forest floor.
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
Provides traction and ankle support on root-strewn forest floor.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)
Keeps you hydrated during active, hands-on instruction; instructors demo purification but personal water is key.
summer
Layered clothing and rain shell
Fog and coastal weather mean temperatures can change—layers keep you comfortable.
Small daypack and sit pad
Carries snacks, extra layers, and a pad for kneeling during shelter and fire practice.