Mother's Day with Mother Nature

It's right around the corner, this Sunday is Mother's Day - a day we celebrate Mom's and all they do for us. The way I see it, we've all got a few people to commend: our own mother's, the mother's in our lives, and of course - Mother Earth.

This year it may be a fun retreat from the crowded brunch lobby's of breakfast joints, to get out outside! Take this day to relax with mom in nature by planning a day hike in Fall Creek in Felton or lunch at Sunnycove in Santa Cruz. It just may be the perfect way to say "Thank You" to mom for all those years spent brushing your hair and knotting your laces.

Need some ideas? Start here:

Henry Cowell's Observation Deck: Felton

From the parking lot, take the Meadow Trail to the Loop Trail to Pipeline Road. Follow the road along the river through generous redwood hollows and up through redwood hillsides that give way to oak and madrone. Turn left at the Ridge Fire Road and follow it through soft white sand and manzanita to the Observation Deck, which affords spectacular views of the surrounding Santa Cruz Mountains (and, on a good day, of the sea). Vary the trip on the way back by taking the Pine Trail to Eagle Creek Trail; this scenic path will reconnect with Pipeline Road and send you back toward the parking lot. To get to Henry Cowell: Head up Highway 9 from Santa Cruz to Felton; once in town, keep an eye out for the brown state parks sign on the right hand side of the road. 831.335.4598.

Need more gift ideas? Book a adventure in May for anytime in 2010 and receive a 10% discount with the code MOM2010. Space is limited!