Tree 9 - Santa Cruz, California

Tree 9: A Historical Landmark at the Heart of UCSC's Natural Reserve

Located in the picturesque city of Santa Cruz, California, Tree 9 is a majestic Douglass fir that has been a beloved landmark on the UC Santa Cruz campus for decades. This towering tree has witnessed the growth and development of the university, and its significance extends far beyond its impressive stature.

Main Services

• Guided Tours: Explore the natural reserve and learn about the unique flora and fauna of the area through expert-led tours.
• Research Opportunities: Collaborate with faculty and researchers to gain hands-on experience in land management, ecology, and conservation.
• Academic Use: Utilize the reserve for classes, seminars, and workshops, offering students a chance to engage with the natural environment and apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.
• Internships: Participate in internships that focus on conservation, ecology, and natural resource management, providing students with valuable work experience and skills.
• Collecting Policy: Adhere to the reserve's collecting policy, which ensures that all plant and animal specimens are collected and handled responsibly and sustainably.

Location and Access

Tree 9 is situated within the UC Santa Cruz Campus Natural Reserve, a 2,000-acre protected area that provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural history of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The reserve is easily accessible via the Highway 1, and visitors can park at the reserve's entrance and take a short walk to the tree.

The natural reserve is located near the University of California, Santa Cruz, at the following address:

Visitors can also access the reserve via public transportation, with buses stopping at the nearby University of California, Santa Cruz campus.

Featured Characteristics

Tree 9 is a majestic Douglass fir, one of the tallest on campus, standing at an impressive height of over 100 feet. Its unique characteristics include:

• Unique Canopy: The tree's canopy provides a shaded area for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
• Wildlife Habitat: The tree serves as a habitat for various species of birds, insects, and mammals, offering a glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
• Historical Significance: Tree 9 has been a beloved landmark on the campus for decades, serving as a symbol of the university's commitment to environmental conservation and education.
• Accessibility: The tree is easily accessible via a short walk from the reserve's entrance, making it a great spot for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Practical Information

Visitors to the UC Santa Cruz Campus Natural Reserve can expect the following practical information:

• Hours of Operation: The reserve is open daily from 8am to 5pm, with extended hours during peak season.
• Admission: Admission to the reserve is free, although donations are appreciated to support the conservation efforts.
• Facilities: The reserve offers picnic areas, restrooms, and a visitor center with information about the natural history of the area.
• Events: The reserve hosts various events throughout the year, including guided tours, workshops, and lectures.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Tree 9 has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from visitors and students alike. Some of the positive aspects mentioned include:

• Stunning Views: Reviewers have praised the tree's stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with one reviewer stating, "The views from the top of Tree 9 are simply breathtaking."
• Educational Value: Visitors have praised the reserve for its educational value, with one reviewer stating, "The guided tours were incredibly informative and helped me understand the natural history of the area."
• Accessibility: Reviewers have commended the reserve's accessibility, with one reviewer stating, "The tree is easily accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities."
• Conservation Efforts: Reviewers have praised the reserve's conservation efforts, with one reviewer stating, "The reserve's commitment to environmental conservation is truly inspiring."

Average opinion: 4.8/5.

👍 Reviews of Tree 9

Alison B.

5/5

In the olden days (20 years ago) when I was a freshman at UCSC we used to climb this thing to get a view of the ocean. I can see that the campus cut off the lower branches (very responsible if them) and I'm sad for the successive generations that will never get to experience tree 9 the way we did. 🌲

Wil M.

4/5

This is a very nice Douglass fir, one of the tallest on campus. It’s unfortunate that the lower branches were cut off as it was perfect for climbing before.

Rachael

5/5

Can you still climb this tree? I climbed to the top in 2000, but coming down was terrifying. I'm glad I did it, but you couldn't pay me enough to do it again.
These photos break my heart. This tree used to be full and lush and nothing like these pictures.

Zaven

5/5

Had my first date with my college sweetheart in those branches circa 2005! An excellent tree; five stars.

Me T.

5/5

Stunning scene at the top!!

Tamara B. S.

5/5

Best place in campus

Gabriela B. B.

5/5

Magic

Brady R.

5/5