Bonny Doon (Moon Rocks) Spring, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060

## Overview Bonny Doon Spring, also known as Moon Rocks Spring, is a natural spring tucked into the forested hills above Santa Cruz in the Bonny Doon area of Santa Cruz County, California. Situated near Martin Road at an elevation of roughly 1,800 feet in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this spring emerges from the ground in a region known for its redwood-shaded canyons, sandstone formations, and rich groundwater fed by coastal fog and seasonal rains. The Bonny Doon area — named after a Scottish phrase meaning "beautiful hill" — has long been valued for its clean, naturally filtered water. The surrounding geology of marine sedimentary rock and fractured sandstone acts as a natural filtration system, and visitors have reported that the spring water tastes exceptionally pure and clean. At least one visitor has personally consumed the water directly from the ground source and described it as very pure, though it is not known whether the spring has been formally piped or improved for collection. The "Moon Rocks" nickname refers to the distinctive weathered sandstone outcroppings found in the nearby landscape, which have become a well-known local landmark and informal gathering spot. ## Directions 1. From **Santa Cruz**, head north on Empire Grade Road, then turn onto **Ice Cream Grade Road** heading toward Bonny Doon and Davenport. 2. Continue until you reach **Martin Road** and turn onto it. 3. Look for the trailhead near **850 Martin Road**. - If you are **coming from Davenport** (heading southeast on Martin Road), the trail will be on your **right**. - If you are **coming from Ice Cream Grade Road** (heading northwest on Martin Road), the trail will be on your **left**. 4. The GPS coordinates **37.049016, -122.138208** (near 799 Martin Road) can help guide you to the general area. Look for an informal trailhead or pulloff along the road. 5. Follow the trail from the road to reach the spring. The path may be unmarked, so proceed carefully and watch for the water source emerging from the ground. *Note: Parking along Martin Road can be limited. Be mindful of private property boundaries and avoid blocking driveways or gates.* ## What to Expect The spring is accessed via a short trail off Martin Road in a rural, lightly trafficked part of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The surrounding landscape is a mix of second-growth redwoods, tan oaks, and madrone trees, with the characteristic sandstone formations ("Moon Rocks") adding a striking visual element to the area. The water emerges directly from the ground. It is not confirmed whether the spring has been piped or fitted with any collection infrastructure, so visitors should be prepared for a natural, unimproved water source. The flow may vary seasonally — expect stronger output during and after the winter rainy season (November through April) and potentially reduced flow during the dry summer and fall months. The area is relatively secluded and peaceful, making it a rewarding stop for spring hunters and hikers exploring the Bonny Doon backcountry. Cell service can be spotty in this part of the mountains, so download maps and directions before heading out. The roads in this area are winding and narrow — drive carefully, especially on Ice Cream Grade Road.