Magical Wanderland

Redwood Adventures and Hikes in Humboldt County

Lush, ancient, and giant. Those are just a few of the words that will come to mind as you stand under some of the tallest trees in the world. Just a few hours from San Francisco, Humboldt County is home to one of the most unique national parks in the country, Redwood National and State Parks.

As you hike under fallen redwoods, hop over streams, and watch water slip like silver tinsel over 50-foot canyon walls blanketed in green ferns, you’ll realize just why they shot The Lost World: Jurassic Park in Fern Canyon. You’ll also find some of the best hiking in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. It’s not just about the hulking redwoods up here.

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There are also turquoise tide pools, dramatic sea stacks, and the sheer cliffs of Patrick’s Point State Park in Trinidad—one of the county’s unique towns—perched dramatically on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific.

STAY: There’s a huge range of lodging options all across Humboldt County, including lodges and cabins, B&Bs, hotels, and motels.

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    This easygoing bike escape is proof that you don't have to drive for hours to feel the vast benefits of nature. The Ballona Creek Bike Path is part of the “Park to Playa Regional Trail,” a 13-mile network connecting parks and open spaces from Baldwin Hills to the Pacific Ocean.

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    A 3.7-mile loop hike to Boucher Hill Fire Lookout in Palomar Mountain State Park reminds us just how stunningly beautiful are the mountains of this remote, lightly visited portion of northern San Diego County.

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