 There are a number of natural points of interest throughout the UCSC grounds . The " Porter Caves " are a popular site among students on the west side of campus . The entrance is located in the forest between the Porter College meadow and Empire Grade Road . The caves wind through a set of caverns , some of which are challenging , narrow passages . Tree Nine is another popular destination for students . A large Douglas fir spanning approximately 103 feet ( 31 m ) tall , Tree Nine is located in the upper campus of UCSC behind College Nine . The tree had been a popular climbing spot for many years but due to environmental corrosion and fear of student injuries , UC ground services sawed off the limbs to make it nearly impossible to climb . For specific directions , reference : directions to Tree Nine For the less experienced tree @-@ climber , students also frequent Sunset Tree located on the east side of the meadow behind the UCSC Music Center . 
