The forest of Nisene Marks is undergoing a continuous process of change and growth. This watershed has been sculpted by natural forces such as earthquakes, landslides, fire and erosion as well as the human impacts from extensive logging. The park contains fossils and due to its location in a fault zone, you can see evidence of punctuated uplifting of the earth.

Vegetation
The Coastal Redwood, sequoia semperviren, has inspired awe since first described to the world outside of the native Ohlone Indians. Most of Nisene Marks is covered with second growth redwood forest. Adhering to their name (ever-living), the majority of these trees sprouted from the stumps of first growth redwoods that were cut down. The park is also home to a variety of other trees such as madrone, tan oak, live oak, and Douglas fir. Mossy carpets, ferns and sorrel also flourish in this environment.

The riparian zones consist of creek canyons, waterfalls, fern covered cliffs, and mossy rocks. A deep clear pool features juvenile steelhead trout preparing for their migration down Aptos creek to the ocean. You will also se alders willows and big leaf maples.

Wildlife
Due to the vast and rugged landscape, people seldom visit much of the 10,000 acres in the Forest of Nisene Marks. The most commonly seen animals are the stellar jay, banana slug, acorn woodpecker and brown towhee. The observant wanderer may see newts crossing the trail in the winter and garter snakes basking in the spring and summer. Mule deer, various hawks and owls, California quail and gray squirrels can also be observed while trekking through the park. Coyotes, bobcats and mountain lions are always present, but seldom seen. These animals are vital in the food web that allows for a healthy ecosystem. They are typically shy of human contact and do not pose a threat.