As featured in the Santa Cruz Sentinel, July 2026 · front page photo essay (subscription)
Where to Experience the Santa Cruz Redwoods
The redwood forests of Santa Cruz County are among the last of their kind on earth. We guide small groups through them, on foot, at the pace the forest asks for. If you came looking for the redwoods, this is the slow way in.
Forest Bathing in the Redwood Forest
Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku) is a Japanese practice of mindful nature immersion. We blend this ancient wisdom with yoga, meditation, and sensory awareness techniques, creating the conditions for you to be fully present, and to experience the wonder of the ancient Redwood forests.
The Benefits
Research shows that Forest Bathing results in:
REDUCES
STRESS
DEEPENS CONNECTION WITH
THE MORE THAN HUMAN WORLD
IMPROVES SLEEP &
REDUCES INSOMNIA
Improves Mental Health
& Mood
Boosts Immune System
ENHANCES FOCUS &
CREATIVITY
About Your Guide
Alex grew up in the Santa Cruz mountains, cultivating a lifelong connection to these ancient forest ecosystems. He brings two decades of yoga and meditation practice, along with expertise in neuro-linguistic coaching and psychology, to guide transformative and unique nature experiences.
Offerings
Corporate Groups
Team bonding experiences, executive retreats, and wellness packages designed and customized for organizations.
Private Groups & Celebrations
Private experiences, group gatherings, and celebration packages for special occasions
What People Are Saying
"From the moment we began, I felt an incredible sense of connection—to nature, to myself, and to the present moment. Alex’s depth of knowledge about the forest, its trees, and the subtle ways nature communicates was both fascinating and grounding. He guided us to truly see, taste, and smell the world around us in ways I’d never experienced before. The yoga, sound bowl, and breathwork were intentional and grounding, each practice woven into the experience. The yoga opened my body to receive nature fully, the sound bowl resonated deep within, quieting my mind and softening my heart, and the breathwork anchored me in the present with a profound sense of calm and clarity. Every element felt thoughtfully placed. Every step felt intentional. The air seemed sweeter, the colors richer, and the sounds of the forest more alive. Alex’s ability to weave science, story and sensory were amazing. Can’t wait to share with everyone. Thank you Alex!"
Maria
Verified Customer
"My daughter and I had an experience of a lifetime. Alex is a kindred soul to redwood trees and brings the wisdom of the forest through different meditations along the path of thousands of trees. Experiencing this ancient forest, the rippling stream, and the sunshine coming through the tall branches is magical. Alex incorporates yoga complementing the mini hike. He is able to adjust to whatever you want out of the experience. My daughter and I extend our gratitude for the time he spent sharing his knowledge and kindness. Thank you Alex!!"
Diana
Verified Customer
"My mother and I had a lovely time Forest Bathing in the Redwoods! Alex has curated a multi-sensory, informative yet peaceful experience that anyone would have the honor of treating themselves to. I believe this act of simultaneous forest-care and self-care reminds us of the majesty of trees—their ancient wisdom and loving nature. Alex intertwines science, observation of intricate details in the forest, and the invitation to explore the trees through the five senses. I think this experience would be eye opening for anyone of any age. After forest bathing, I feel calmer and closer to nature."
Allegra
Verified Customer
"Thank you, Alex for taking us on a special journey. A true experience is one you leave a better person than before you had it. That happened to me after learning what forest bathing is and emursing myself in its transcendent awakening. I have a better appreciation for the nuances of nature and the significance of the insignificant. I look forward to applying what I learned wherever I am."
Brian
Verified Customer
"I've done this hike with Alex three times- twice with friends and once with my employees. And I just sent my parents on a hike with him for their anniversary and they loved it and can't wait to do it again! Forest Bathing is such a rejuvenating experience- especially after the stresses of covid- everyone should gift themselves this experience. As someone who has depression and anxiety- forest bathing offers a chance to get away from the over-stimulation of everyday life, quiet your mind, and feel your body calm down. You will not regret forest bathing with Alex as your guide. He is knowledgeable, laid back, and you'll feel like old friends by the end of the day."
Daley
Verified Customer
"This was such an amazing experience. My friend gifted it to me as a birthday present and it was so relaxing. It felt like a massage for my soul, a 'soul massage' and I'm still reaping the benefits days later. Alex is a wonderful guide - definitely recommend!"
Natalie
Verified Customer
"It's hard to put into words how wonderful this experience was for my family. We live in a world ruled by technology and the fast pace of everyday societal demands. As first-time forest bathers, Alex encouraged us to press pause on the chaos and engage our hearts and minds with nature. It was a soul-cleansing journey that led us to breathe a little deeper and experience the forest with all of our senses. Alex was able to customize the experience to meet the comfort levels of everyone in our party. If you have nerves about what to expect, you can let that go. Alex will skillfully meet you where you need to be met. The feeling you walk away from this with is lasting and all encompassing! This is one of those 10/10, highly recommended kind of adventures."
Elena
Verified Customer
"Alex was an awesome host who led our group through meditation and other mindfulness practices throughout the forest. Me and my partner are new to forest bathing and Alex made the experience extremely approachable, insightful, and relaxing. If you're looking to learn more about yourself, be with nature, fully relax, and simply be, I recommend this experience! Thanks so much, Alex for being an awesome guide. We feel rejuvenated!"
Ariana
Verified Customer
"My husband and I scheduled a forest bathing session with Alex on a whim during the pandemic, looking for a way to get out in nature. We didn't really know what to expect, but Alex immediately put us at ease. Alex is knowledgeable, kind, and curated the experience to our comfort level. I can't imagine a better antidote to the stress of our fast-paced world than forest bathing. We left that day feeling calm, refreshed, and invigorated. We loved it so much, we've been back several times with friends, family (I sent my parents for their anniversary), and even my employees (as a team-building activity). I cannot recommend Alex enough. This is the perfect experience for anyone looking to slow down and reconnect with themselves and to nature."
Daley
Verified Customer
"I was intrigued after reading about Shinrin-yoku, and Alex provided an incredible hands-on experience that brought it to life. The tour was refreshing and truly grounding—highly recommend it for anyone looking to recharge, de-stress, and reconnect with nature."
Meghana
Verified Customer
"This was our first time experiencing forest bathing and we couldn't have had someone better than Alex lead us through this journey. Alex is passionate and knowledgeable about the forest, he went well over time and didn't rush us through any of it. Amazing sensory experience, meditative and also did some yoga asanas. Thank you, Alex!"
Gayatri
Verified Customer
"If you are considering doing this experience, do it. Now. Alex is thoughtful and knowledgeable, guiding you on a transformative experience. You'll see the forest in a whole new light. Beautiful."
Jennifer
Verified Customer
"One of a kind experience. For me trails and hikes have been about exercise and being with nature. But this experience is about immersion in nature and being one with it. Alex does a fantastic job of doing this for each one in the small group. Me, my wife and my four year old son had a great experience today with each one of us enjoying the feel, sounds, colors and smell of this beautiful redwood forest. Highly recommend. Worth the money and time! Thanks again Alex!"
Ashwin
Verified Customer
"What an amazing experience to commune with nature. Alex was an awesome guide, naturally encouraging us to slow down from the pace of normal life and notice our surroundings with all of our senses. We left the experience feeling grounded and with giant smiles on our faces. Can't imagine a better outcome."
Alexa
Verified Customer
"Alex is an amazing guide, taught how to connect with nature. This is so far my fav experience. Very useful if you are too stressed with your everyday life. I recommend everyone to try this out! Cleansing in between beautiful redwoods."
Srihitha
Verified Customer
"If you need a place to escape from Bay Area and loads of work stress, here is the one. After a long busy week, this tour offers a perfect opportunity to relax. Really enjoyed the Saturday morning walking in the woods with Alex. Great tour. Absolutely 5-star."
Yuchen
Verified Customer
"This experience was so much better than I could've imagined. As an admitted workaholic, I go into mindfulness experiences with a bit of cynicism but Alex's thoughtfulness, passion and knowledge about nature was so infectious. I find myself very moved and changed by the 2 1/2 hours in the forest that truly felt like a lifetime. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to experience something bigger than themselves and get connected to the beauty of nature."
Brittany
Verified Customer
"Alex provided an excellent experience. I love to be among trees. I wasn't sure how my husband would respond to the experience, if he would be open to a 'Forrest bath' which was new to us both. He appreciated it as much as I did and I got the impression he'll truly see trees differently now and look to give himself this experience in the future, which is a beautiful and healthy habit. I would encourage anyone to join Alex in this experience."
Monica
Verified Customer
"Alex gave us a wonderful experience, one where being one with nature can further be planted within my daughters and a wonderful reconnection for myself. We walked away with a greater understanding and love for the magical forest of redwoods, and he showed and shared with us special places and stories. Such a calm spirit- a perfect person to guide you through an ever lasting memory and provides one with a respite from the stressors of life."
Michelle
Verified Customer
"Alex is a truly gifted, very soulful, kind spirit. He is definitely one with nature. His personality is calming the moment you meet him. His ability to draw you into the 'Forest Bathing' experience is phenomenal. Meditation with him was well guided and easy to follow. There are some things you happen upon in life that make you wish you never had to leave…for me this was the one."
Pam
Verified Customer
"Absolutely magical. The whole experience, Alex is a warm and thoughtful person, go for it!"
Dan
Verified Customer
"Forest bathing with Alex was magical! Just what myself, 22yr old daughter & 17 yr old son needed after a rough day. Loved taking my shoes off and feeling the soft pine needles underfoot while we walked. A few yoga poses & some light meditation surrounded by trees, fauna, wind and water - all added up to the perfect rejuvenating morning! Highly recommend this excursion as Alex is an amazing, friendly, knowledgeable, fun soul; generous with his time and expertise. Bonus - my son became an expert Banana Slug spotter (we saw at least 10!) and now I know why it's the UCSC mascot :) mystery solved!"
Kristen
Verified Customer