Heading north on Hwy 101 from Mendocino into Humboldt County, your first encounter with old-growth redwoods will be at Richardson Grove State Park. Established in 1922 and named after California’s 25th governor, Friend W. Richardson, this beautiful park is not only a popular family camping spot, but also a wonderful place to learn about the coastal redwood forests. There is a … [Read more...]
#15 – Benbow Valley Golf Course
With meticulously tended greens and glorious Humboldt County views, the Benbow Valley Golf Course near Garberville is not only the lone public golf course in southern Humboldt County, but also one of Northern California’s most challenging. This nine-hole, par-35 course features two sets of tees, allowing golfers to play 18 holes. Described by many as “unforgiving,” players are o … [Read more...]
#16 – Southern Humboldt Community Park
Let nature be your playground at the Southern Humboldt Community Park. You can explore 431 acres of grasslands, farmland, upland forests, and native redwoods, with attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Walkers, bikers and horseback riders will enjoy 3.5 miles of trails that wind around meadows and through forests. All park trails are multi-use and can be used by … [Read more...]
#18 – Pacific Ocean Fishing
Shelter Cove is one of California’s premier ocean fishing destinations. Fishermen come for the salmon, which are found close to the shore here May through August. Anglers also catch an abundance of ling cod, rock cod, halibut, albacore and surf perch. They can launch a boat from the cove, which Point Delgada protects from the northwesterly winds. Visitors can buy fishing l … [Read more...]
#2 – Casinos in Humboldt
Going to a casino can be lots of fun and incredibly rewarding. There are several places to try your luck in Humboldt County. Bear River Casino in Loleta - Check out the generous slot machines at Bear River Casino, or great table games such as Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Blackjack, Spanish 21 and live action Craps and California-style Roulette. Or visit their new Poker Den. Th … [Read more...]
#20 – King Range and Lost Coast Trail
The King Range National Conservation Area is unlike any other place in the continental United States. Here, in this 35-mile long, 68,000-acre stretch of coastal wilderness, the mountains rise directly out of the sea. King Peak tops out at 4,088 ft., and is only 3 miles from the ocean. The Conservation Area extends between the Mattole River in Humboldt County to the northern … [Read more...]
#25 – Humboldt Redwoods State Park
The natural crown jewel of the county is Humboldt Redwoods State Park. This is the definitive spot to see the magnificence of California’s famous coastal redwoods. In the early part of the last century there was a nationwide effort to save what remained of the old-growth redwoods on California’s North Coast. Philanthropists and civic clubs began buying groves of trees for the pu … [Read more...]
#26 – Eel River Swimming Holes
One of the most striking features of Humboldt County is the magnificent Eel River. The North and Middle Forks of the Eel have been designated as part of the National Wild and Scenic River system, and its watershed is the third largest in California. The river flows through five counties with winding lazy curves to churning whitewater. It runs parallel to the coast and Hwy 101. … [Read more...]
#27 – Redwood Hiking Trails
Humboldt Redwoods State Park has hundreds of miles of trails — there are so many it’s hard to decide where to hike. View our map on pages 28 and 29 to see the location of different trailheads along the Avenue of the Giants. Listed here are the five best hikes chosen by the volunteers of the Humboldt Redwoods Interpretive Association who staff the Visitor Center. There is also a … [Read more...]
#28 – Cuneo Creek Horse Camp
Cuneo Creek Horse Camp is a complete campground designed specifically for equestrians and their horses. The camp features five family campsites, accommodating up to eight campers each, with two corrals on each site. Two group campsites accommodate up to 90 campers and their horses, with a total of 28 corrals. The different sites also accommodate large trailers and RVs. The camp … [Read more...]
#34 – Centerville County Park and Beach
Just outside Ferndale, discover a pristine beach on the Pacific Ocean that stretches for nine miles with dairy farms to the north and steep cliffs to the south. At Centerville County Park and Beach, have an exciting afternoon filled with hiking, picnicking, beachcombing and wildlife viewing. Sandpipers dance on the water’s edge and cormorants, pelicans and gulls soar over the w … [Read more...]
#37- Korobi Stables
A great way to enjoy the northcoast from a different perspective is to ride on horseback. While horseback riding anywhere can be an adventure, taking a ride in Humboldt County is an opportunity to enjoy a uniquely special experience. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the beaches, the rivers, the forest and the plains while riding atop these wonderful animals gives you a … [Read more...]
#40 – Salmon Pass Trail
Here is your chance to explore Headwaters Forest Reserve with a knowledgeable guide, a Park Ranger who will introduce you to the wonders of this magical old-growth forestland. The first half mile of the trail passes through a young to mid-aged forest with views of restored watershed areas. The next 2 miles ascend through the old-growth redwood forest with a stunning view across … [Read more...]
#42 – South Spit Humboldt Bay & Table Bluff County Park
About 10 minutes south of Eureka off Hwy 101, visitors will find the expansive sandy beaches of the Mike Thompson Wildlife Area, South Spit Humboldt Bay. Locals know it simply as the South Spit, and anyone will tell you that if you’re looking for a beach all to yourself, this is where you’re going to find it. Access to the spit is through Table Bluff County Park, where high c … [Read more...]
#43 – Old Town Haunted History Ghost Tours, Eureka
The streets and alleyways of Old Town Eureka are believed to be among the most haunted locations on the entire West Coast. Old Town Haunted History Ghost Tours explore the area’s racy past and paranormal present. Each 2-hour, 1-mile long walking tour of Eureka’s historic red light district leads visitors along the waterfront, up and down the notorious “Two Street” where beautif … [Read more...]
#47 – M.V. Madaket Humboldt Bay Harbor Cruise
Climb aboard the Madaket and enjoy a relaxing voyage along the shores of Humboldt Bay. The M.V. Madaket, built in 1910, is the last survivor of seven original ferries that transported families and mill workers around Humboldt Bay for decades. Today it sits as the oldest passenger motor vessel in continuous service in the entire United States. Between May and October, you can … [Read more...]
#48 – Kayaking or Paddleboarding on Humboldt Bay
Humboldt Bay offers excellent paddling adventures for everyone from the novice to the expert. Several companies offer kayaking and paddleboarding on the bay, with guided tours available and equipment for rent. They will also provide you with information on tides, safety, touring without leaving a trace, and other related topics. Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center program offers … [Read more...]
#49 – Humboldt Coastal Nature Center
The growing, green-roofed Humboldt Coastal Nature Center in Manila, founded by Friends of the Dunes, is unique in our region. It is the public gateway to over 1000 acres of coastal lands including the dunes near Arcata and Eureka, possibly Humboldt’s best-kept secret. From the Nature Center you can explore on your own or enjoy guided hikes highlighting bird-watching, mushrooms, … [Read more...]
#5 – Redwood Adventures
Want to get away from it all and enjoy some quality time in the great outdoors? Redwood Parks Lodge Company offers full-service hospitality to all visitors to Redwood National and State Parks. It is conveniently located in the heart of Redwood National Park, Fern Canyon, Prairie Creek State Park, beaches, and just a few minutes from world famous Lady Bird Johnson Grove. Hike, … [Read more...]
#54 – Blue Ox Millworks & Historic Park
Blue Ox Millworks manufactures authentic Victorian-style architectural millwork using antique equipment ranging from the mid 1800s to the early 1900s and traditional woodworking techniques from that era. They produce custom doors, windows, turnings and Victorian gingerbread and ship it nationwide. Their tooling includes the largest collection of operating Barnes Brothers … [Read more...]
#6 – Guided Nature Adventures
It can be rewarding to head out on your own to one of the many hiking trails that crisscross the rugged wilderness of Humboldt County, soaking in the amazing diversity of plant and animal life — but it can be difficult to get a scientific understanding of all the things you’re seeing along the way. If you’re interested in learning about the things around you, sign up for a guide … [Read more...]
#60 – Sequoia Park Zoo
Watershed Heroes Exhibit is back, and better than ever. The river otters are thriving in their stunning exhibit that reflects the environment these animals call home. Walk along a realistic stream bed with otters and salmon swimming at eye level on either side of you. Kids can even crawl through an acrylic tube right inside the habitat! Also, be sure to check out the new Raptor … [Read more...]
#63 – Samoa Dunes Recreation Area
If you love to ride your ATV or have been itching to try the sport, head to the Samoa Dunes Recreation Area. This is a great place to go for an afternoon of launching up and over sand dunes, making sharp turns and triggering sand to shoot into the air. With more than 140 acres of trails and beach, there is plenty of space to play. Bring you own ATV since they are not available … [Read more...]
#65 – Headwaters Forest Reserve
Imagine standing under a towering forest canopy, streams of light coming through the leaves and the gentle twitter of birds coming from the woods surrounding you. This is a beautifully tranquil experience, which everyone should have at least once in their life. The Headwaters Forest Reserve, just south of Eureka, offers an ideal setting for this experience. The reserve serves … [Read more...]
#66 – Arcata Community Forest
If you’re looking for a rugged outdoor getaway close to the comforts of town, the Arcata Community Forest is perfect. This incredible redwood forest really is the “best of both worlds.” It covers more than 600 acres, and all of them are inside Arcata’s city limits. Head out into the lush, green forest, and within a few seconds you’ll forget that you are still inside a bustling c … [Read more...]
#7 – Disc Golf
The discus throw was introduced at the Ancient Olympic Games in 708 B.C., and the modern game of golf dates back to the 15th century in Scotland. It was not until 1926, however, that we have any record of the two games being merged. By the late ‘60s the rules for modern disc golf had been established, and the game started to catch on in a big way. As in traditional golf, a c … [Read more...]
#73 – The Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary
The Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary, a remarkable natural habitat and recreation area built around a cost-effective and environmentally sound wastewater treatment facility, is a great place to go hiking and birding. This 307-acre site is located along the Pacific Flyway, making it a popular destination for birders from all over the world. It is home or rest stop to over 300 … [Read more...]
#74 – Mad River County Park
For a magnificent, memorable beach and riverside experience, head straight to Mad River County Park. Here you can see wildlife in its natural habitat along the shores of the Mad River as it spills into the Pacific Ocean. Spanning many miles, the Mad River starts in Trinity County and winds through Six Rivers National Forest. Matthews Dam, approximately one-third of the way … [Read more...]
#78 – Moonstone Beach & Clam Beach
Moonstone Beach is one of the most popular surfing spots in Humboldt County, and for good reason. In the summer, the ocean produces three- to five-foot swells, often going to 20 feet in the winter. A wide beach break provides ample room for a wide range of surfers to ride, and this stretch of ocean is great for beginners and seasoned surfers alike. But Moonstone Beach isn’t j … [Read more...]
#8 – Bicycling & Running
You can take in the natural beauty of Humboldt County and let “people power” carry you to the finish line with cycling and running races. Local running clubs host a number of marathons and community runs throughout the year, and local cyclists gather for mountain bike and road races. No matter what your sport of choice might be, these races will lead you on paths through gor … [Read more...]
#81 – Hammond Coastal Trail
Hammond Coastal Trail is one of the best places to bike, hike, jog, or ride a horse in Humboldt County. Part of the California Coastal Trail, it is more than five miles long, stretching north from Arcata to Clam Beach County Park in McKinleyville. The trail lies along what was originally a railroad track built in the early 1900s for transporting redwood logs from the Little … [Read more...]
#83 – Trinidad State Beach
One of the most popular and spectacular beaches in Humboldt County, Trinidad State Beach is a rock-strewn, mile-long expanse of sandy beach that stretches from Trinidad Head north to Elk Head. The southern portion of the beach is easily accessible from the parking lot located at the beach’s edge by Bay Street and Lighthouse Road, just off Edwards Street. Kid-friendly and d … [Read more...]
#84 – Luffenholz Beach
One of Humboldt County’s most exciting secret spots, Luffenholz Beach is a rocky cove with some of the best tide pools anywhere. It also offers a sandy beach, huge boulders, a year-round creek and stunning views of Trinidad Bay. Glorious on sunny days, dramatic when it storms, and hauntingly mysterious the rest of the time, it provides a unique experience each time you v … [Read more...]
#85 – Big Lagoon County Park
Big Lagoon is formed by a long sand spit that separates it from the Pacific Ocean. The spit is actually a continuation of Agate Beach, and a premier beachcombing location. Here the determined walker can find a profound solitude amid the elements, not to mention agates, jade, jasper, chalcedony and other wave-tumbled stones. Big Lagoon County Park is located at the south end … [Read more...]
#86 – Kayaking Trinidad
Trinidad’s coastline is beautiful when viewed from the beach, but it’s even more impressive from the water as you paddle among seastacks and out into Trinidad Bay. As Trinidad Head juts out into the ocean it shelters the bay from incoming swells and waves, creating safe harbor for kayakers and recreational boaters. There are miles of gorgeous coastline to investigate in Tri … [Read more...]
#87 – Tide-Pooling
The best time for tide-pooling is during spring tides (“spring” in the sense of “jump,” not the season), those that happen every two weeks when there is a full moon or a new moon and the gravitational effects of the moon and the sun complement each other. These have the highest high tides and the lowest low tides. Plan your trip to the tide pools for half an hour to an hour befo … [Read more...]
#88 – Patrick’s Point State Park
Patrick’s Point State Park is located in the heart of Redwood Country. If you love to experience spectacular panoramas, rocky cliffs, great hiking trails and sandy beaches, you won’t want to pass up this wonderful opportunity. Six miles of scenic hiking trails thread through the park where acres of dense forest stretch over an ocean headland. Stroll under a canopy of spruce, … [Read more...]
#89 – Agate Beach
At Patrick’s Point State Park there are great trails, great views and Agate Beach, a wonderfully pebbly beach made for agate hunting. This beach is covered with wave-polished semi-precious stones. While not as valuable as precious stones, agates can still be used to make jewelry as well as projectile points, carvings, and various other items. If the long walk down to Agate B … [Read more...]
#9 – Six Rivers National Forest
Six Rivers National Forest is enormous, offering a wide variety of activities for people of every age. It encompasses nearly one million acres and stretches southward from the Oregon border for more than 140 miles. Portions of the forest lie in four different counties, with a big chunk of it in Humboldt County. Visiting Six Rivers is awe-inspiring. You’ll have the opportunity t … [Read more...]
#91 – Redwood National and State Parks
Modern life can be stressful, with deadlines to meet, meals to prepare and dozens of things to do and no time to do them. Visit Redwood National and State Parks, and all that worry will be washed away! Take your time and enjoy all that these lovely parks have to offer, with so much to do for every member of the family. In addition to the world-famous soaring redwoods that grow … [Read more...]
#93 – Humboldt Lagoons State Park
Agate hunting, bird-watching, beachcombing, boating and whale-watching are all popular outdoor activities for families along the North Coast. One of the best places to do all of these and more is Humboldt Lagoons State Park. In the early 1900s, Dry Lagoon was drained to make way for crops and dairy ranches. The effort proved uneconomical, and eventually Mother Nature … [Read more...]
#94 – Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Prairie Creek, an unassuming waterway that enters the Pacific Ocean near Orick, is also the namesake of the 23-square-mile Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, a sanctuary of old-growth redwoods set aside in the early 1920s by the State of California and the Save-the-Redwoods League. The park has been designated a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. The … [Read more...]
#95 – Amazing Fern Canyon
Fern Canyon lets you take a leisurely stroll, leave everything else behind and enter a magical world. This beautiful natural wonder is a one-mile-long box canyon, complete with the creek that carved it. Its walls, completely covered in five different varieties of fern, tower up to 80 feet above. Huge overhanging trees grow at the top of the ridge, allowing streams of light to … [Read more...]
#96 – Kayak Trips
Located 50 minutes north of Eureka and 45 minutes south of Crescent City, Orick serves as a gateway to Humboldt Lagoons State Park and the rivers of Redwood National and State Parks. When conditions are right, it is hard to decide which body of water to paddle. With a driving time of five minutes to one hour, you can reach three picturesque lagoons, several great surf beaches, … [Read more...]
#97 – Klamath River Jet Boat Tours
The Klamath River is known around the world. It is a beautiful, pristine river that runs from Altamont in Klamath County, Oregon, dips down into Humboldt County, and continues all the way to the Pacific Ocean near the town of Klamath in southern Del Norte County. You can enjoy this picturesque river from the comfortable seat of a jet boat. Just set out on a two-hour trip … [Read more...]
#99 – Fishing Trinity
The Trinity River watershed is an “Angler’s Paradise” offering four seasons of world-class fishing. Along with its feeder streams, the Trinity River provides more than 1,500 miles of fishable waters that start high in the mountains of the Trinity Alps. The fly-fishing is legendary. Chinook salmon, coho salmon and steelhead are the local superstars, but there are 11 different spe … [Read more...]
Bear River Casino Hotel, Loleta
Bear River Casino Hotel in Loleta features over 350 of the most generous slots on the California North Coast with plenty of big jackpots, bonus games and special bonus features for your entertainment. Guests won over $12.6 million in jackpots in 2014 and are on pace to win even more in 2015! Bear River Casino Hotel’s Table Games feature, Free Bet Blackjack, Double Deck and 6 … [Read more...]
Bigfoot Rafting Co., Willow Creek
Bigfoot Rafting has been running North Coast rivers for several decades and is one of the largest and most experienced river outfitters operating in the Klamath-Trinity region. They offer action packed, guided whitewater adventures for first timers and seasoned veterans. They pride themselves on reliability, commitment to details, quality equipment and competitive prices. Their … [Read more...]
Blue Lake Casino and Hotel
Blue Lake Casino and Hotel in Blue Lake is one of the premier casinos in Humboldt County. This gamer's destination features 800 slots, slot machine exclusives such as “Lucky Frog” and “Bigfoot”, comfortable bar-top video poker, keno in their WAVE lounge and more. Blue Lake Casino and Hotel also has a 102 room, luxury hotel on site for your convenience. Year round, the casino … [Read more...]
Center Activities Adventures
Center Activities is a non-profit organization providing recreation gear rental and a variety of recreational activities and private trips including kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, sailing, surfing, canoeing, windsurfing, backpacking, cross country skiing, rock climbing and whitewater adventures. Experienced guides carter to individual learning styles and skill levels. All … [Read more...]
Cher-Ae Heights Casino, Trinidad
Take Your Winnings to New Heights Cher-Ae Heights Casino offers the finest in gaming and entertainment. Everything from Slots and Bingo to Blackjack and Roulette; the action at Cher-Ae Heights is a sure bet. Enjoy the newest slots on the north coast and the only high stakes bingo in Humboldt County. Touring concerts, free live entertainment, award winning dining and much, much … [Read more...]
Del Loma RV and Campground, Big Bar
Shaded Camping Right on the Trinity River Del Loma RV Park is located in beautiful Trinity County, California and located right on the Trinity River to allow for great access to fishing and other water activities. Relax in the beauty of Northern California’s 2nd largest Trinity Alps Wilderness Area, and the Wild-and-Scenic Trinity River at Del Loma RV Park and Campground. Off … [Read more...]
Emerald Forest, Trinidad
One Mile from the Beach Stay in one of the Emerald Forest of Trinidad's cabins and capture the spirit of the North Coast. 20 Vacation cabins, all fully furnished for your comfort. Enjoy the forest from your private deck. Stay in a rustic North Coast Original, an elegant Suite, a Forest Cabin, or a roomy family cabin - all situated among the Redwoods, only a mile from … [Read more...]
Humboats Kayak Adventures, Eureka
At Humboats Kayak Adventures in Eureka get everything you need to enjoy some time out on the water. Experience the sight of passing whales as you bob with the swell in Trinidad Bay. Learn the natural history of Eureka on kid friendly Humboldt Bay kayak tours. Explore the rivers, the bay, the lagoons and more. Certified guides outfit and coach your whole group before every trip. … [Read more...]
Humboldt Beer Tours
6 Breweries, 2 Cideries, 3 Craft Distilleries Whether you are just visiting or a local, Humboldt Beer Tours has something for everyone. They offer private and public tours to cater to any occasion. Humboldt County currently has 6 craft breweries: Mad River Brewing Co. Redwood Curtain Brewing Co. Eel River Brewing Co. Six Rivers Brewery Lost Coast Brewery … [Read more...]
Humboldt Redwoods Interpretive Center, Weott
At Humboldt Redwoods Interpretive Center in Garberville visitors learn about the tallest trees on earth. There are numerous visual and hands on educational exhibits, a theater, a gift shop, and a friendly volunteer staff to answer questions about the park. The Visitor Center is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Where: 17119 Avenue of the Giants, … [Read more...]
Kayak Zak’s, Trinidad
At Kayak Zak's their mission is to provide fun, eco-friendly, and safe, on-water instruction, interpretive tours, outdoor education, and environmental awareness in kayaks to persons of all abilities along the beautiful redwood coast of Northern California. Kayak Zak’s offers tours of Trinidad Bay and Big Lagoon, whale and bird migration trips, kayak and equipment rentals, ins … [Read more...]
Mario’s Marina Motel, Shelter Cove
On-Site Boat Parking! Mario’s is the only lodging situated right at the Marina in Shelter Cove. They offer on-site boat parking and are just a short walk to most services. If you're looking to go fishing, they offer boat launching and two charter services. Mario's is a non-smoking facility and each room includes 2 Queen beds, a coffee maker, a microwave oven, a m … [Read more...]
Old Town Haunted History Ghost Tours, Eureka
Discover Eureka's bawdy past and its haunted present. As you tour the streets of Old Town, you'll learn what happened in Opera Alley, and what is underneath 2nd Street. Find out about Captain Buhne’s tragic loss, and what's lurking upstairs in Ruby’s Room. We guarantee you'll never forget “Eureka’s other side of history.” Tours last about an hour and a half and are avail … [Read more...]
Pacific Outfitters Adventures
Pacific Outfitters has the largest and most diverse adventure programs on the North Coast. Their store fronts have all the gear you need to get outdoors, but their adventure program offers everything from lessons, certifications to custom adventures. Whether you are interested in kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, surfing, scuba, hunting, firearms, fishing, rafting, or other … [Read more...]
Redwood Adventures & Elk Meadow Cabins, Orick
Elk Viewing from Your Front Porch! Hike, bike, fish, kayak, or ride a horse in the home of the world's tallest trees! Share a memorable experience in Redwood National Park, one of the only places that the ancient redwoods of California's Pacific Coast can be found. The Elk Meadow Cabins are conveniently located in the heart of Redwood National Park, Fern Canyon, Prairie … [Read more...]
Redwoods and Rivers, Hwy 299
Redwoods & Rivers on Hwy 299 has been operating on the Trinity, Klamath, Cal Salmon, Eel and Smith rivers for over 16 years. No matter what your experience level is they can offer something to challenge every ability. They offer half day, full day or multi day trips through some of the most beautiful scenery in Northern California. Where: 21690 State Hwy 299, Del Loma … [Read more...]
Rose’s Billiards, Eureka
Pool & Beer Rose’s Billiards is a calm, clean, and friendly pool hall with 12 professional pool tables and 10 large screen TV's for sports etc. They also offer a 20 tap beer bar, wine, cider and ku soju. Where: 535 5th Street, Eureka (google map) More Info: 707-497-6295 | Rose'sBilliards.com … [Read more...]
Shelter Cove RV & Campground
Spend a Night By the Ocean! At Shelter Cove RV Park and Campground spend the night next to the ocean listening to the waves crash and enjoying the fresh ocean air. With a beautiful location right off the coast in Shelter Cove, CA there are an abundance of pristine views and many secluded beaches to enjoy near by. Hike the "Lost Coast Trail", spend time whale watching, combing … [Read more...]
Six Rivers Rafting, Willow Creek
6 Rivers Rafting is owned and operated by people who share a passion for whitewater rafting and global stewardship. They provide the highest quality experience on the rivers in Shasta-Trinity & Klamath National Forest. They offer guided whitewater trips (class II-V), scenic wilderness river trips, multi-day trips, gourmet dinner trips and Kayak lessons. Rafts, Inflatable … [Read more...]
Trinity River Rafting, Hwy 299
Trinity River Rafting has been guiding people on personalized whitewater adventures since 1988 with one thing in mind--your enjoyment! People from all walks of life are discovering what an exceptional vacation value whitewater rafting can be. Their commitment to you is to offer personalized, high quality river adventures that are affordable and most of … [Read more...]