Tree 9 - Santa Cruz, California

Tree 9: A Historical Landmark and Tourist Attraction in Santa Cruz, CA

Main Services

• Historical Landmark: Tree 9 is a significant historical landmark on the UC Santa Cruz campus, with a rich history that dates back to the early days of the university.
• Tourist Attraction: Known for its impressive size and unique characteristics, Tree 9 draws visitors from both the local community and beyond, eager to witness this iconic Douglas fir.
• Educational Opportunities: The tree is part of the UCSC Campus Natural Reserve, offering students and visitors alike the chance to learn about land management and the natural history of the area.

Location and Access

Tree 9 is located at the UC Santa Cruz campus, Address: 1156 High St, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, United States. The campus is easily accessible by car, with several parking lots available for visitors. Public transportation is also an option, with the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District providing bus services to the campus. The tree is situated near the base of McHenry Library, making it easily identifiable and accessible to visitors.

Featured Characteristics

Impressive Size: Tree 9 is a massive Douglas fir, standing tall at an estimated 160 feet, making it one of the tallest trees on the UCSC campus. Its circumference is approximately 40 feet at breast height, further emphasizing its size and dominance in the landscape.

Unique Shape: Despite its grand size, Tree 9 is quite distinctive due to its unique shape. Unfortunately, the lower branches have been removed, which has altered its original form. However, the remaining branches and the tree's overall structure still make it a fascinating sight.

Historical Significance: Tree 9 has been a part of the UCSC campus since its early days, with the campus itself established in 1965. The tree has witnessed the growth and evolution of the university over the years, making it a cherished historical landmark.

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit: The tree can be appreciated at any time of the year, but spring and fall may offer the most striking visuals, with flowers blooming in the spring and leaves changing color in the fall.

Accessibility: Tree 9 is easily accessible, located near the base of McHenry Library. The campus is wheelchair accessible, and the tree is situated in an open area with no barriers to access.

Nearby Attractions: In addition to Tree 9, the UCSC campus offers several other attractions, including the UCSC Arboretum, the Cowell Lime Works Historic District, and the Natural Bridges State Beach, which is a short drive away.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

While the reviews for Tree 9 are relatively limited, with only 13 reviews on Google My Business, several positive aspects can be drawn from them:

• Iconic and Impressive: Many reviewers mention the tree's size and impressive appearance, with one reviewer describing it as "a very nice Douglas fir, one of the tallest on campus."
• Historical Significance: Some reviewers appreciate the tree's historical significance, with one reviewer mentioning that "this thing used to get a view of the ocean" when they were a freshman at UCSC.
• Educational Opportunities: A few reviewers highlight the educational opportunities that the tree offers, with one reviewer mentioning that it's "perfect for learning about land management and the incredible natural history" of the area.

👍 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