Experience the Best Hikes on the Majestic Mendocino Coast
The Mendocino Coast, with its reputation for awe-inspiring views and diverse hiking trails, beckons adventurers to explore its unique stretch of the California shoreline. Known for being part of the "Lost Coast," the largest roadless coastal area in the continental U.S., this region offers tranquil remote shores and magnificent redwood groves, all accessible by a network of scenic trails.
Fern Canyon, Van Damme State Park
Fern Canyon, nestled within Van Damme State Park, is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Here are some key points to consider when planning a visit to this verdant retreat:
Park Features:
Van Damme State Park is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and swimming.
The park is dog-friendly, allowing pets on a leash no longer than six feet.
Visitors can obtain maps to navigate the park's offerings effectively.
Hiking the Fern Canyon Trail:
The Fern Canyon Trail is a 9-mile round trip that meanders alongside Little River, with a climb leading to the unique Van Damme pygmy forest boardwalk.
Hikers can immerse themselves in the shades of towering redwoods and the lush greenery of the canyon, making it an excellent choice for a day hike.
The trailhead is located within the park, which features one of the largest campgrounds on the Northern California Coast, and a free day-use beach with picnic areas and opportunities for kayaking, diving, and whale watching.
Unique Ecological Features:
The Pygmy Forest along the trail showcases an unusual natural phenomenon where centuries-old trees are only around 6 feet tall due to nutrient-poor soil and a hardpan layer beneath the surface.
To protect the delicate ecosystem, visitors are encouraged to stay on the handicap-accessible boardwalk in the pygmy forest.
The Fern Canyon Scenic Trail offers a 7.71-mile loop with a gentle elevation gain, surrounded by a dense forest of Redwoods, Cypress, Pines, and giant ferns, best experienced during the rainy season for its most vibrant state.
Shakota Trail
The Shakota Trail offers a blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty for those visiting the Mendocino area. Here's what hikers and outdoor enthusiasts need to know:
Trail Basics:
Length: 3.5 miles.
Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, trail running, e-bikes.
Difficulty: Intermediate (blue rating).
Accessibility: Open year-round, potential mud in winter months.
Cost: Free to hike.
Trail Experience:
Terrain: Moderately difficult with steep inclines and declines.
Views: Panoramic scenes of Lake Mendocino, bird watching, and wildlife observation opportunities.
Navigation: Well-marked and easy to follow.
Access Points and Considerations:
Northern Access: Via Lake Mendocino exit off Hwy 20, through Kyen campground to Pomo Cultural Center.
Southern Access: Via Lake Mendocino Drive from Hwy 101, left at the overlook sign, parking at the trailhead.
Horseback Riding: Permitted on the Kaweyo Trail in the Wildlife Management Area.
Preparation: Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and carry the 10 essentials for hiking.
Dogs: Permitted on a leash.
Connectivity: Cell phone reception may be unreliable.
Peter Douglas Trail
Trail Overview:
Distance: 2.3 miles, out-and-back.
Location: Trailhead at Usal Road, Westport, CA 95488.
Accessibility: Four-wheel drive recommended for dirt road access.
Features: Over 300 handmade steps, old logging roads, boardwalks, steps, bridges, interpretive signs, picnic tables, benches.
What to Expect:
Environment: Dense forests of redwoods and Douglas firs, wild "Lost Coast" views, old-growth trees shaped by ocean winds.
Wildlife: Opportunities to see Roosevelt elks, white-tailed deer, chipmunks, snakes, and foxes.
Flora: Wildflowers, calypso orchids, silver bush lupine, forget-me-nots, native blackberries, and wild strawberries along the path.
Terrain: Loose, muddy, and rocky paths with beach, forest, and grassland sections.
Difficulty: Easy, with minimal elevation gain.
Important Information:
Best Time to Visit: June through October to avoid impassable roads during the rainy season.
Facilities: No restrooms; primitive campsites at nearby Usal Beach Campground.
Fees: No entrance fee, dogs allowed on leash.
Conservation: Part of the California Coastal Trail System, dedicated to Peter Douglas for his coastal conservation efforts.
Contact: Save the Redwoods League at 415-362-2352 for more details.
Ecological Staircase Trail
Trail Highlights:
The Ecological Staircase Trail is a journey through time, showcasing five terraces each formed by ancient tectonic activity.
Located in the Jug Handle State Natural Preserve, the trail spans 2.5 miles one way and culminates in a unique pygmy forest.
Along the route, hikers witness the ecological evolution, with the oldest terrace being 500,000 years old and hosting a nutrient-deprived pygmy forest.
Visitor Information:
For those looking to extend their visit, the Jug Handle Farmhouse provides overnight accommodations.
To enrich the hiking experience, guided trail walks can be scheduled by contacting Jug Handle directly.
With no admission fee required, the trail offers an affordable exploration opportunity.
Hiking Essentials:
Due to the trail's varied terrain, including stair-stepped sections, sturdy hiking boots are recommended.
The trail is open year-round; however, caution is advised during wet conditions to avoid slippery paths.
While dogs are welcome, they must remain on a leash to preserve the area's delicate ecosystems.
Trail Navigation and Environment:
The trail begins at Highway One Mile Marker 57 and extends to Mile Marker 55.75, with a total altitude change of 232 feet.
Hikers can download a self-guided nature trail PDF to learn about the diverse environments they'll encounter, from coastal bluffs to dense Redwood forests.
The average hike time is approximately 21 minutes one way, making it a moderate challenge suitable for most fitness levels.
Remember to practice "Leave No Trace" principles to help maintain the trail's natural beauty for future visitors.
Montgomery Trail
The Montgomery Trail Mendocino Coast, a jewel among the extensive network of California State Parks, offers an adventure that encompasses the dramatic beauty of the region. This 10-mile trail is not just a path but a journey through diverse landscapes and stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Here are some key features and tips for those planning to traverse the Montgomery Trail:
Trail Details:
Length: 10 miles along the Mendocino Coast.
Multi-use: Open for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Starting Point: Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve.
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve:
Unique Ecosystem: Home to the Montgomery Grove, a lush redwood haven that thrives without coastal fog.
Trail Length: A shorter 1.6-mile loop within the reserve with a 220 ft climb.
No Entrance Fee: Enjoy the natural beauty without a cost; donations are welcome.
Trail Experience:
Wildlife Encounters: Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and marine life.
Challenging Sections: Some steep areas suitable for experienced hikers.
Year-Round Access: Note that some parts may be closed in winter.
Visitor Amenities:
Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, and parking available.
No Staffing: The reserve operates without staff; ensure to plan ahead.
Passes and Reservations: Information on passes and lodging reservations can be found on the state parks website.
Mendocino Headlands and Russian Gulch State Park
Exploring the natural splendor of the Mendocino Coast continues with a visit to Russian Gulch State Park and Mendocino Headlands State Park, both of which offer unique and breathtaking hiking experiences:
Russian Gulch State Park:
Coastal Wonders: A favorite for its stunning coastal views, including a remarkable sinkhole and an iconic bridge.
Family-Friendly Trails: The Headlands Trail is an easy half-mile coastal bluff hike, perfect for families, ending at a notable sinkhole.
Waterfall Adventure: For a longer hike, the Russian Gulch Falls Trail is a 5-mile round trip leading to a picturesque 36-foot waterfall.
Diverse Landscapes: The park boasts a mix of redwood forests and rugged coastline, offering a variety of scenic vistas.
Fees and Accessibility: An $8 per vehicle fee applies, and the park is part of the California State Park system's commitment to accessibility for all visitors.
Mendocino Headlands State Park:
Trail Access: Miles of trails meander along the cliffs and beaches, providing free access to explore the park's natural beauty.
Activities Galore: Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy camping, boating, and horseback riding within the park's expanse.
Dog-Friendly: Canine companions are welcome on a leash, ensuring a fun day out for the entire family.
Plan Your Visit: Maps and safety tips are available online, and visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance.
Pass Options: A range of passes, including the Annual Day Use Pass and the Golden Bear Pass, offer added value for frequent visitors.
