North of Trinidad lies the town of Orick, located on the banks of Redwood Creek near where it flows into the Pacific Ocean. The area is famous for the large herds of Roosevelt elk that live there. Two favorite spots for viewing them are in nearby Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: Elk Prairie, on the Newton Drury Scenic Parkway near the Visitor Center, and in Elk Meadow on Davison Road, just off Hwy 101 along the turnoff that takes you to Gold Bluffs Beach, where yet more elk live, and to Fern Canyon. There is also a large herd that can often be seen grazing right by Hwy 101 near Stone Lagoon, just south of Orick.

Sitting virtually in the middle of the Redwood National and Prairie Creek State Parks, Orick is a great place to access the natural wilderness. Use a variety of trails to see wildlife, explore some of the world's tallest trees, and hike the dramatic coast. Camping facilities are available, from primitive to well-appointed. In addition there are food and drink available from local businesses, as well as about a half a dozen artisan burl outlets lining Hwy 101 as it passes through town.