We recently visited Better Place Forests while searching for a unique and meaningful resting place for my sister. Navigating this process is never easy, but our guide, Martin, made the experience incredibly peaceful and comforting. He was so kind, patient, and compassionate with us. He took the time to walk us across the beautiful trails and carefully showed us all the different tree types available to choose from. Being out in nature really brought us a sense of peace. If you are looking for a beautiful, non-traditional memorial option for a loved one, I highly recommend visiting and asking for Martin."

We are so glad to have found Better Place Forests to place our dad's ashes! Our dad's wishes were to be cremated and "scattered over the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California". We weren't sure how to go about "scattering" his ashes and looked into a few things, but we liked the idea that he would be in a certain place, that we could visit in the future, but also went along with his wishes. We chose a memorial tree near a seasonal creek with a view of the meadow and now every time I think of him, I think of this place and know where he is and that it is where he wanted to be. The people and process at Better Place Forests were very helpful and accommodating and I have comfort knowing where he is.

We interred our beloved father in law for n the Santa Cruz Forest surrounded by his 88 year old widow, his five children, and eight of his ten grandchildren. To a person, everyone agreed that this was the most beautiful memorial remembrance that anyone had ever attended. And it’s not even close. Martin, from Better Places Forest and Leah did a terrific job and were incredibly sensitive and caring throughout the process. I can’t say enough good things about what this experience meant to our family. My wife and I have already purchased our tree as has my brother-in-law. And we’re all within steps of each other in the same grove. I wish that everyone could know how amazing the better place for experience is for a family. The grandchildren will take these memories with them decades into the future.

First of all the drive to the Santa Cruz BPF location is beautiful. My Friend Who joined me there was impressed by the serenity and beauty there. We spent 30 minutes at my Tree and walked around the area taking photos, Martin the Docent and Guide is Angelic as well 🙏✌️💚🕉️A. Jon Martinelli

Absolutely a 5 star review. Jessica is great, helpful and patient. And dealing with me requires alot of patience. Better Place is an incredible concept, much more personal, meaningful and beautiful. Way better than a brick in the lawn laying shoulder to shoulder with a thousand other deceased people for all of eternity.

It was perfect. Our host, Martin, was so kind, gentle and caring. The ceremony for my husband was perfect, sad, but yet still beautiful. I’m so glad that my husband and I chose this to be our final burial place. I cannot imagine a more perfect place to spend eternity. Thank you Better Place Forest.

This is THE BEST PLACE forest. Beautiful and peaceful. Thank you, Jessika, for our first back visit!

I worked with Jessica. She walked me through the whole process at a pace i could follow. We found my favorite tree that fit my needs. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is looking for a non traditional way to be buried.

Our immediate family (a group of 10) recently reunited for my father's memorial service. He would have been pleased with the final resting place chosen for both him and my mom. The setting was perfect, and the weather was ideal. Tyler and Kelly were exceptional hosts, assisting with the ash-spreading process before giving us the privacy we needed. Benches and a UTV were available for those with mobility challenges. Lastly, our dog, who shared a close bond with my father, was also welcomed. Update 11/24: I returned to visit my parent's tree. The experience was priceless! It was mom's birthday and site was unstaffed, but Tyler thoughtfully set up a bench next to our tree. I was alone in the forest, so quiet except for a few chirping birds. This was nothing like my visits to traditional cemetaries with headstones and mowed grass. Amazingly, two redwood seedlings had taken root where my parent's ashes were spread. What are the odds? I'd add an extra star, but google doesn't allow. Update 11/25: We had a family reunion yesterday. Martin and Leah met us on a rainy foggy afternoon. Like our experiences with other staff before, they were kind, respectful, and welcoming. Better Place Forests' transition to a non-profit corporation hasn't changed the high level of attention and care. When we arrived, the rain magically stopped and then started again when we drove away. Can you believe they didn't charge us extra? Kudos!

We visited our tree where Mom, Dad and my brother rest today with family from out-of-town. The forest steward made us feel welcome and helped my disabled aunt access the area with ride to the tree. We had a wonderful time sharing memories of our departed family members with birdsong in the background and the beauty of the forest around us. We’re so happy our family will be reunited here and welcome for future generations.