Forest cabins near Santa Cruz

Redwoods and crashing waves are the backdrop of this seaside city by the mountains.

97% (1409 reviews)
97% (1409 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Santa Cruz

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top forest cabins sites near Santa Cruz

91%
(472)

Saddle Mountain

34 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents89 acres · Carmel, CA
Welcome to Saddle Mountain, RV and Campground! We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life. PLEASE NOTE, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING. Our glamping stays are NOT pet-friendly aside from one of our luxury tents. We charge $15 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets. On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation* On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, Foosball table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months. We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests. Thank you!
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$98
 / night
100%
(51)

Charcoal Springs Camp & Cabin

4 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Watsonville, CA
Welcome to our serene retreat at Charcoal Springs, overlooking the Monterey Bay! Nestled amidst the picturesque Santa Cruz mountains of California, our property offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday urban life, with beautiful views of the ocean, redwood forest, and stunning sunrise/sunsets. Our property is above the redwoods, and more often than not, above the fog line! We've spent the last year pouring our love into this mountaintop retreat and we are happy to share it with you! Our spacious camping area provides ample room for you to set up your tent or camper van (no RVs, trailers or 5th wheels) ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. Outdoor activities: leisurely stroll along our scenic little trail + surrounding wilderness: we are right next to the north entrance of the Soquel Demonstration Forest for world class mountain biking. If you are interested in hosting a larger group, in organizing a retreat, and in booking out all our sites, please get in touch! ATTENTION: MAY-OCTOBER - FIRE BAN PENDING WEATHER/WIND DAY-OF KITCHEN/BBQ AT PANORAMA CONTAINER CAMP: Propane is $25/tank, WE DO NOT PROVIDE PLATES, CUPS, UTENSILS, OR COOKING SUPPLIES AT CONTAINER CAMP! Container Camp Kitchen has a BBQ, tongs and brush for the BBQ, a 3 burner camp stove, sink, covered trash/recycling cans, miscellaneous pots/pans (see picture with utensils on site). There is NO REFRIGERATOR at Container Camp, so bring your coolers! KITCHEN AT THE COOP (NO BBQ): The Coop is equipped with most kitchenware that one would need (4 cu ft refrigerator, pots, pans, 4 x plates, bowls, and cups, mugs, knives, silverware, salad bowl, french-press coffee pot, kettle…) with a two burner electric hot plate and the woodstove with a cooktop on it. The Coop does NOT have a BBQ. PLEASE KEEP FOOD IN SEALED CONTAINERS OR COOLERS! Also, remember to keep the volume down, as most people come here precisely for the piece and quiet:) Grocery shopping: We are 25 minutes from the Summit store, and Corralitos meat market down Eureka Canyon. All sites have access to: -electricity, -hot showers, -composting toilet (Sun-Mar Excel), -industrial sink (also with hot water), -partially equipped kitchen (with mini fridge and electric hot plates in 'The Coop' / propane stove/BBQ at the container camp in covered kitchen area), -Fire places: wood stove in The Coop, and seasonal fire-pits (bring your own wood - or buy $15 a bundle from us) (Please bring your own SHEETS, TOWELS and BIODEGRADABLE soap - Dr. Bronner's. If you're camping, for an extra comfy night's sleep, we can provide 2 custom double bed sized camping mattresses - for $25 a mattress per night). After a day of exploration, you can use our designated fire pits (seasonally/weather permitting) and share stories under the stars with your fellow travelers. At Charcoal Springs, you can expect a peaceful retreat far from the city, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you traverse the rugged terrain and enjoy the view. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply craving a moment of calm, our property offers the perfect escape for your next outdoor getaway. We look forward to welcoming you to our slice of paradise! Johnny and Jeanne (Profile pic from artist Pedro Gomes: https://pedrogo.com/)
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$95
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99%
(92)

Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch

1 site · Lodging350 acres · Loma Mar, CA
Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) protects open space on the Peninsula and in the South Bay for the benefit of all. Situated on top of a ridge with expansive redwood forest and coastal views, the Audrey Edna Cabin provides a completely private gathering place and destination for visitors with reservations. The cabin has spectacular views of forest, sky, ocean and the Butano ridgeline. It's a short hike to 8000+ acres of county parkland where you can hike, bike and ride horses (though please note, there are no facilities for horse boarding at the cabin.) The cabin is located at Alpine Ranch, a property adjacent to Sam McDonald County Park that was protected by Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).  Whether you are looking for an active experience or just want to relax in a peaceful, remote setting, there's something here for everyone. This is a rustic hike-in cabin designed for a introductory pack-in experience. Bedding is not provided. It is about a 1.7-mile hike on a rolling dirt road from the Sam McDonald County Park parking lot, with about 650 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers can reach the cabin in an hour or less. Guests should plan to arrive at least 2 hours before sunset, and pack water and flashlights or headlamps. Guests with limited mobility, please contact us for information regarding accommodations that will allow you to access this shared resource. *A note about reservation availability: On the weekends, POST offers priority reservations for the cabin to our partners at the San Mateo County Health Department and Park Rx to provide patients with equitable access to the benefits of nature. Occasionally, we have last-minute public weekend reservation availability due to cancellations. The cabin is reservable up to 3 months in advance, on a rolling basis. Love the idea of a hike-in cabin, but unable to visit us Sunday-Thursday? Check out the nearby Sierra Club Hiker's Hut in Sam McDonald County Park.  Property History: At one time, the ridge of the Santa Cruz Mountains was a thriving center for trade between tribes of the coast and the bay, which we still find evidence of today in cultural sites and artifacts throughout the region. Native people have cared for this land since time immemorial, including the local Muwekma and Ramaytush Ohlone who are still active in the area today. This property specifically is host to a tributary to one of just a handful of waterways that support salmonids in this region, which are a species of tremendous importance to native people. Over 1000 acres here were eventually purchased by entrepreneur Ridgeway Rowley, who built a home on the ranch in the 1880s as part of an unsuccessful wedding proposal to Fannie Page, daughter of a local mill owner (ever heard of Page Mill Road?) After being rejected by Fannie, Rowley operated the ranch for a decade in conjunction with his work as District Attorney and publisher of the Palo Alto Weekly, before eventually returning to his hometown of Cortland, NY, where he lived as a bachelor until his death. Over the course of the 20th century, the ranch was divided, some parts of which became Pescadero Creek County Park. POST purchased the 350 acre home property, now called Alpine Ranch, in 2012 through our Heart of the Redwoods campaign, an initiative to protect 20,000 acres of Redwoods in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Alpine Ranch borders Pescadero Creek County Park and Sam McDonald County Park, adding to the area’s protected open space and containing more than a mile of tributaries to Pescadero Creek, which flows year-round and is a major spawning stream for steelhead trout. The Audrey Edna Cabin at Alpine Ranch is situated at one of the property's most scenic overlooks. The cabin was built in the early 1900's, and completely reconstructed up to modern building codes by POST in 2018 so that all could enjoy this special place.
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$100
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99%
(151)

San Juan Bautista Dog Friendly

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · San Juan Bautista, CA
Known to many in the Bay Area as the "Nearby Getaway," Mi Querida is a quick and easy drive from the SF Bay Area. Come to relax in peace and quiet, pleasant outdoor. A short drive away but far from troubles you've left behind! Relax and rejuvenate. The weather is always temperate, sometimes the evening marine layer lavishly blankets the rolling hills like cotton. Evening campfires are cozy and relaxing. Easy access to Highway 101 for "Nearby Getaways" or convenient stops along your travels. Nearby attractions include whale watching, Elkhorn Slough Safaris, fishing, Monterey Zoo, Fisherman's Whart, world famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Pebble Beach, Carmel, Big Sur, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and miles of beaches, redwoods, miles of bike trails from the new Coastline Trail to Fort Ord and Niscene Marks Redwoods, wine tasting and more. Host is a well-experienced event and tour planner. Simply ask for recommendations. Come to your "Nearby Getaway" at Mi Querida - an easy drive from the SF Bay Area - for great sky views, and pleasant country walks, or step back in time to the Mission-era town of San Juan Bautista without commercialism! Well, we do have a gas station, a market, the active mission, of course, a step back in history, a few quaint restaurants, craft beer and local wines in our "one-horse" historical town. For the ultimate Nearby Getaway book the entire property and bring along your own selected guest list of friends or family. We invite private groups to exclusive use of the property for Getaways, family & friends picnics, celebrations, reunions, even weddings. Day use or overnite facilities. Groups of 1-100. NEWS FLASH: Skip the long stopover at urban EV charging stations. Charge your EV overnite! Special rates for stopover charging! Easy off and on to Highway 101, 129. 156 and on your way! Learn more about this land: This is a large flat site with rolling hills, lovely rural views, rolling oak studded pastureland, open views, lovely sunsets and beautiful mornings. Very quiet, private, peaceful and serene. Afternoon breezes while red tailed hawks ride the thermals, and woodpeckers work on their treasure hoarde. Spot the breeding pair of Bald Eagles who swoop down almost low enough to touch! Wildlife abounds. Easy access from Highway 101, yet private and secluded. Historic San Juan Bautista Mission and town nearby. Monterey/Carmel 30 minutes. Santa Cruz/Beaches 20 minutes. Hollister, Salinas, or Gilroy 20 minutes. Site will accommodate RV, Sprintervan, or trailer 50/30/20 amp service. Tents welcome too! Water. Ranch "outhouse" with flushable composting style toilet, running hot & cold water, shower and electricity. Bunkhouse rustic accommodations available. Contact Host for details. Tent and Car Top Tent sites also available. Contact Host for details. Beautiful peaceful historic San Juan Bautista. Quaint historic mission town nearby with restaurants. Hiking trails nearby Horseback riding woods & beach. Equine Facilities available. 20 min to beach or redwoods. Beautiful rural area. Weddings, anniversaries, celebrations of life; event camp; event site. Family groups and events always welcome! Call for more information. NOTE: This property is located in a very private country area. It is approximately 8 minutes from the small historic town of San Juan Bautista. We meet our first time guests at the Park & Ride as a welcome courtesy so you can easily follow us in and around the potholes on our rural roads! Let us know if we can assist you with any special interests or attractions in the Monterey Bay and Central Coast Area. As your hosts, our goal is that you will rest easy, enjoy the relaxation, peace and harmony for your "getaway."
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$74.75
 / night
100%
(1)

4 Creeks Redwood Retreat

1 site · Lodging111 acres · Soquel, CA
Four Creeks Redwood Retreat Nestled deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Four Creeks is a hidden gem that embodies the essence of off-grid living and getting away from the matrix. Your journey begins at our gated entrance where paved roads transition into gravel and dirt, leading you through four shallow creeks and deep into the heart of the redwoods. Surrounded by 19,000 acres of forest, this unique location offers guests a window into something truly magical and a silence that is both pristine and rejuvenating. with world-class mountain biking and hiking trails in our backyard, and easy access to Hinkley and Soquel Creeks, you can make the mountains your home for the duration of your stay. And if you feel like exploring, we are just 12 miles from downtown Santa Cruz, and a few miles further to the coast. Four Creeks is fully off-grid and powered by solar, propane, and wood burning stoves. All our power is stored in four 700 pound lead-acid batteries and a 12,000 watt generator that kicks on automatically when needed. Our water is sourced from a spring and travels thru the woods for a mile before entering our tanks for use on the land. On-site, you will be staying in a fully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bath cabin with a full kitchen, wrap-around deck, and massive redwoods at your fingertips. The cabin has high vaulted ceilings, multiple skylights, and large windows looking out into the forest. AMENITIES INCLUDE: - Two outdoor showers with their own changing rooms - Two outdoor bathrooms with flushing toilets - Multiple camping locations for those who prefer sleeping under the stars - A 44-foot diameter geodesic dome fully loaded with composite dance floor, JBL sound systems, DMX lighting, wood burning stove, shag rugs, cushy pillows, and a humongous red fan. the space is perfect for dancing, yoga, ceremony, and relaxation - Large groups are welcome. Please contact owners to discuss. OFF-SITE ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: - World Class Surfing - Iconic Walks on East Cliff & West Cliff Drive - Beautiful Santa Cruz Mountain Wineries - Local Breweries and Distilleries - Popular Beaches in Town - The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - Wilder Ranch and Less Crowded North County Beaches - The Monterey Bay Aquarium - 17 Mile Drive - Big Sur ON-SITE ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: - Mountain Biking - Hiking in the Forest - Exploring the Streams and Swimming Holes - Chillin’ by the Fire if you are interested in a deeper experience, both owners are highly skilled at facilitating activities including: - Private Yoga Lessons - Massage // BodyWork - Surfing // Bodyboarding - Meal Preparation - Guided Hikes - Dance Facilitation - Unlocking Your Deepest Dreams - Facilitated Mystical Experiences - Deep Dives into the History of This Land - Deep Dives into How this Property Happened - Understanding our Off-Grid Systems **please share your interests with the owners directly. we are well-connected and here to help you maximize your experience. **Note that both owners live onsite full-time in satellite structures and can be as visible or invisible as you want. We ask all visitors to respect the land, the wildlife, and the neighbors. Drive slowly thru the forest and always lock the gate behind you. ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS Your first visit to Four Creeks is always a bit tricky finding the place, so you will be greeted at the gate and escorted up the mountain. please coordinate your arrival time with the owners. Our road is well maintained so 2WD vehicles with normal clearance are perfectly safe. 4WD is optimal for this terrain. Thanks for reading and we’re looking forward to meeting you — Hamid, David, and our 12-pound, cotton ball lap/guard dog Cooper
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$400
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98%
(20)

Cozy Cottage in the redwoods

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Felton, CA
*Please see all pictures :) Our property is on a fully fenced, sunny half acre and we have a small house/cabin/cottage that we would like to rent out to weekenders. Henry Cowell State Park is across the street, many mountain bike trails are a few minute drive away. Our little town of Felton is 1 mile away and Santa Cruz is a 10 minute drive. *Henry Cowell State Park is half a mile away and *Roaring Camp Railroads is 1 mile away. Cottage is 500 sq ft, with it's own private deck area. We have a NO SHOE policy inside the cottage, because of the nature of living in the mountains. Thanks for your patience on this subject. There is a queen sized bed and a separate couch. I provide pillows, sheets and blankets for the bed. *Secure/fenced parking available for one vehicle *Kitchen with stove, refrigerator *Bathroom with shower and flushing toilet. Outdoor shower with hot water is available. 2 towels provided. *Wall heater that works wonderfully *no air conditioning* *Electricity and wifi! *No partying, drugs or smoking on property or inside the cottage. Quiet hours are from 9pm to 9am. *1 night minimum booking during winter months. *Children are welcome! The property says 3 max, but exceptions can be made for children :) *Pets can be considered, please inquire prior to booking. :)
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$100
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Saved 3 times

Venture Retreat Center

8 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Pescadero, CA
Nestled among ancient redwoods at the end of winding Eden West Road, along the edge of Little Butano Creek, Venture is a NorCal hidden gem. Our roots are in the 1960s counterculture movement and we've long served as a haven for spiritual exploration, self-discovery, and personal growth. Just an hour’s drive from San Francisco, San Jose, and Santa Cruz, our special spot is the most serene escape when you're seeking respite, relaxation, or reconnection with nature. The campus offers a mix of dispersed charming cabins, a serene yurt, camping sites, and glamping tents. You can immerse yourself in the lush forest that surrounds us, soak up the sun, and explore creek-side beauty. Gather around the warmth of an evening fire or drum circle and enjoy the dusk and starshine coming on. Just down the street is Pescadero proper. A sweet little spot (nine hundred strong) and California coast perfection. You'll find gorgeous scenery, local food and drink, neat landmarks, beautiful places to hike and explore, fun galleries, and really, really good people. Ask us for our favorite spots, we’re more than happy to share!
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$212
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98%
(171)

Camp Carmel Valley - Glamping

36 sites · Lodging112 acres · Carmel Valley, CA
The Camp was started in 1925 by Mrs. Douglas as a girls camp to teach young girls the beautiful wonders of the outdoors including horseback riding, swimming, archery, and camping. She felt that boys had plenty of opportunity to explore Mother Nature but at the time, girls had no such camp to attend. This 115 acre, beautiful, rolling hills ranch has been a camp ever since and now offers camping for the young and old, girls and boys, families and singles…. You name it… a camp for everyone. Located on 115 acres historic boys and girls summer camp complete with pool, tennis, and hiking in Carmel Valley, CA. Re-connect to nature and nostalgia! There is plenty to do at the Camp as well as surrounding areas. 2.5 miles from Carmel Village known for its many wine tasting rooms, restaurants and galleries. 14.5 miles inland from Carmel by-the-sea and Carmel Beach. Perfect locations for day excursion to Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur. Individual Glamping sessions are available on select dates. Breakfast included in the stay. Length of stay may be required. We highly recommend you stay for more than one day as it is difficult to take part in all activities when at the camp for only one day. Imagine! your own private off the grid cabin where you can enjoy tent camping without the hassle of setting up a tent. Numerous activities for you to take advantage of or simple step outside your cabin and wonder on our 115 acres and connect to nature. Welcome to The Camp. CABINS Solstice and Sunrise cabins recently re-built cabins have one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) and are located near a shared communal bathhouses. Sunset village cabins have access to a bathhouse with designated full baths with private shower and bathroom for each cabin. Each cabin has power and one queen bed and two twin beds (max 4 ppl) Like tent camping without the hassle of having to set up a tent. You bring your sleeping bag, bedding and towels. Or we can provide you with a bedding/towel pack for an extra cost. POWER All cabins and bathhouses have power Wi-Fi Free wi-fi in central camp not at cabins. FOOD and DRINK 2024 Glamping Includes breakfast. Lunch and Dinner optional at an additional cost. ACTIVITIES Self guided activities include: Pool, pool deck, basketball half court, tennis courts, yard games, hiking trails and many areas to connect to nature. Guided activities: Hosted campfire nightly, Yoga, Archery and Tie Dye sessions available on Saturday. (holiday weekends additional sessions available) FIRE No individual fires. We do offer hosted campfires nightly. DOG Two dogs are welcome per cabin $50 per dog. MUSIC No speakers, amplification or radios. Acoustic instruments are allowed. RESERVATIONS Glamping weekends may require multiple night stays. Check-in is between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. We will send you an email prior to arrival with additional information. Please note Hipcamp site assignments do not correspond to the actual cabin you will be assigned. Our Camp cabin names and assignments are a little different. If you are reserving multiple cabins please let us know so we can try and assign you near each other. Parking is a short walk away from the Cabins. The Camp is private property and for registered guests only. Gate is closed 9PM-7PM. Campers are free to come and go as these please between 7AM-PM, but all Campers must be back onsite before 9PM. WHAT TO BRING: Sleeping Bag or bedding or rent linen pack Towels and Toiletries Flashlight Water Bottle
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$148.80
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Booked 2 times

Enchanted Off-Grid Redwood Cabins

2 sites · Lodging2 acres · Ben Lomond, CA
🌲 Enchanted Off-Grid Cabins Nestled Among Majestic Redwoods 🌲 Welcome to your very own slice of fairy tale living in this charming one-bedroom rustic cabin, surrounded by the towering beauty of redwoods. This off-grid gem is a unique sanctuary of old world natural wonder, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the everyday world. 🏡 Property Features: 🌲 Rustic Charm: As you approach this cabin, you'll feel like you've stumbled upon a gnome's hideaway. The weathered wooden exterior, nestled in the midst of the forest, exudes a magical aura that transports you to another world. 🌟 Skylights: Each cabin boasts skylights that let in the dappled sunlight during the day and provide a breathtaking view of the starry night sky between the trees. Fall asleep under a canopy of trees and stars, and wake up to the gentle glow of dawn. 💧 Natural Spring Water: Experience the purity of nature with water sourced from a natural spring on the property. You can quench your thirst with some of the freshest, purest water on the planet. 🛋️ Furnished: These cozy cabins comes fully furnished, ensuring your stay is comfortable and hassle-free. The living area is a snug retreat, complete with a wood-burning stove for warmth on chilly nights. The bedroom is perfect for a restful night's sleep, and the kitchen has everything you need to prepare delicious meals. 🍃 Outdoor Paradise: Step outside, and you'll find yourself in a lush paradise. At the nearby Quaker Center, explore the surrounding forest, wander among the towering redwoods, or simply relax on the cabin's porch while you listen to the serene sounds of nature. 🌳 Location: The cabins are located in a secluded spot, yet it's conveniently close to nature trails, hiking, Santa Cruz beaches and surfing, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the redwood forest. Revel in the peace and tranquility of the great outdoors while being just a short drive away from all the amenities you might need. The one-bedroom rustic cabins are perfect for nature lovers, artists, or anyone seeking a serene escape from the modern world. Come experience the magic of this gnome-like dwelling and create your own fairy tale in the midst of the redwoods. Enjoy the outdoor shower with hot and cold water. Note- there is no Wifi and cell reception is limited. AT&T works best. Don't miss your chance to call this unique, off-grid cabin your temporary home. Contact us today to schedule a viewing and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the redwoods. Your fairy tale awaits! 🌿🏡🌳 *** Note- Owner lives on-site in lower cabin. Shared stairwell to the road, outhouse and shower (outdoor).
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$112.50
 / night

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Forest cabins near Santa Cruz guide

Overview

If you're looking for a camping experience in the forest near Santa Cruz, California, with the comfort of a cabin, Hipcamp offers over 177 options for you to choose from. The average price per night is $176, with options as low as $36. Check out top campsites such as The Enchanted Forest Retreat (743 reviews), Windsor Family Farm (404 reviews), and Swallowtail Historic Art Studio (252 reviews). Popular amenities include trash, pets, and cooking equipment, while popular activities include swimming, whitewater paddling, and snow sports.

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