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1989 Earthquake Epicenter Area

Field review by the editors.

Aptos, California

In Forest of Nicene Marks State Park, a state historic sign marks the approximate Ground Zero for October 17, 1989's Loma Prieta Earthquake, a magnitude 7.1. The site is a quite a distance from the urban Bay area and San Francisco, where the tremors brought down bridges and houses.

Here in the quiet forest, the sign apologizes for the lack of noticeable devastation.

1989 Earthquake Epicenter Area

Forest of Nicene Marks State Park

Address:
Aptos Creek Rd, Aptos, CA
Directions:
Forest of Nicene Marks State Park. Two miles north of Aptos on Aptos Creek Rd. Drive to the end of the road, park in the lot, and follow the trail from the east end to the "Epicenter Area" sign, about a half-mile.
Phone:
831-763-7062
Admission:
$8 vehicle fee
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Nearby Offbeat Places

Big Furry SpiderBig Furry Spider, Aptos, CA - 1 mi.
Aptos History ExhibitsAptos History Exhibits, Aptos, CA - 2 mi.
High Five Bronze HandHigh Five Bronze Hand, Aptos, CA - 2 mi.
In the region:
Surfing Monument, Santa Cruz, CA - 7 mi.

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