The best walks and hikes in Del Norte County

Explore the Yurok Loop Trail, an easy hike that takes you through a vibrant coastal forest filled with cypress, alders, and Sitka spruce. As you walk, the trees give way to expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, including the striking False Klamath Rock and Wilson Creek Beach with its crashing waves. This route is a quick adventure, covering 1.2 miles (2.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 84 feet (26 metres), and you can comfortably complete it in about 31 minutes.

To begin your journey, head to the Lagoon Creek Picnic Area, conveniently located just off Highway 101, where you will find easy access and ample parking. Remember that pets are not allowed on this trail, in line with the policies of Redwood National and State Parks. You won't need any special permits for this hike, making it a straightforward option for a spontaneous outing.

This trail offers a fantastic opportunity to experience a rich coastal ecosystem within Redwood National and State Parks. It even provides a connection to the longer California Coastal Trail, if you are looking to extend your exploration beyond the loop. The Yurok Loop is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a short, scenic walk that highlights the unique natural beauty of the region.

The Coastal Trail: Klamath Section offers a rugged and diverse hike through Redwood National and State Parks, despite not featuring redwoods itself. This moderate 4.5-mile (7.2 km) route, with 231 feet (70 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and winds through lush spruce forests and open grassy areas. You'll experience constant dips and climbs, with some steep grades, leading to spectacular ocean views and glimpses of sea stacks and False Klamath Rock, especially towards the Klamath River Overlook.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking available at the trailhead. This section is particularly known for whale-watching, especially during winter and early spring, so consider visiting then for a chance to spot migrating whales. Always check current trail conditions, as some sections can be overgrown or rough, and be prepared for varied terrain.

What makes this trail stand out is its undeveloped coastal wilderness feel, offering a less crowded alternative to other parts of the park. You can hear the crashing surf and sea lions even when the ocean isn't visible. Don't miss the unmarked spur trail down to Hidden Beach, a secluded cove perfect for exploring tide pools at low tide, adding another layer to this engaging coastal adventure.

Embark on an easy hike along the Damnation Creek Trail, a 1.9 miles (3.1 km) route with a gentle 81 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 59 minutes to complete. This trail offers a quick immersion into an ancient redwood forest, where you can walk among magnificent old-growth trees that tower high above. The forest floor is a lush carpet of ferns and rhododendrons, creating a serene and captivating atmosphere for your journey.

To plan your visit, head to Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, where the trailhead is conveniently located. Parking is generally available right at the trailhead, making access straightforward. Always remember to check for current conditions before you go, as parts of the broader trail system can become steep and muddy, especially after rainfall. This ensures you are prepared for the specific section you plan to explore.

The Damnation Creek Trail is a notable part of Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, renowned for its preserved ancient redwood ecosystem. While this specific route covers an easier section, it still provides a profound experience of these towering natural wonders. The area is rich in natural beauty, offering a glimpse into a vibrant forest environment that has thrived for centuries.

The Stout Memorial Grove Trail offers an enchanting, easy walk through a primeval old-growth redwood forest in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. You'll find yourself surrounded by towering giants, some up to 300 feet tall, with a lush understory of ferns and redwood sorrel creating a serene, almost magical atmosphere. The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it an ideal choice for families and those seeking a quick, high-impact redwood experience.

This popular route is a short 0.6-mile (0.9 km) loop with minimal elevation gain of just 15 feet (5 metres), taking approximately 14 minutes to complete. To ensure a peaceful visit and avoid parking issues, plan to arrive early in the morning, especially during peak season. While the main trail is easy, it's not ADA accessible due to natural terrain and some access points.

Known as the "heart" of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, the Stout Memorial Grove is home to the magnificent Stout Tree, a colossal redwood measuring 16 feet in diameter. The grove's unique ecosystem, shaped by the nearby Smith River's floodwaters, has allowed coastal redwoods to dominate, creating an incredibly pure and impressive redwood forest. It's a truly special place to connect with nature's ancient wonders.

Embark on the Devil's Punchbowl Trail for a moderate hike that takes you through forested areas, potentially revealing impressive rock features. This route is known for its distinctive natural landmark, often a dramatic geological formation or a hidden water-filled basin, providing a memorable focal point for your journey. You will cover 4.7 miles (7.5 km) and gain 947 feet (289 metres) in elevation, typically completing the hike in about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Before you head out, remember to check local conditions, as weather can affect trail accessibility. The trail is located within the Smith River National Recreation Area in Del Norte County, California. Parking is usually available at designated trailheads, but arriving early during peak seasons is a good idea to secure a spot. Always be prepared for your hike and consider the best time of day for your visit.

Trails named Devil's Punchbowl often feature unique rock strata or stunning natural pools, and this route is no exception. It winds through the Siskiyou Wilderness, offering a chance to experience the natural environment of this region. The journey culminates in a significant natural landmark, making it a notable option if you are looking for a hike with a clear destination and interesting geological context.

Embark on the challenging Mill Creek Horse Trail, a 10.6-mile (17.0 km) hiking route that takes you through diverse Northern California landscapes. You will experience a significant climb of 1753 feet (534 metres) as you traverse undulating terrain, including a steep ascent up Howland Hill. The route winds through second-growth redwood forests and spruce groves, culminating in a unique and expansive old-growth grove of large, straight redwoods in the Mill Creek valley, offering a deep sense of forest immersion. This difficult hike typically takes around 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail involves two seasonal fords of Mill Creek. These crossings are closed from October 15th to March 31st, or sometimes until May 31st, to protect salmon spawning, though an alternate route is available. Some sections of the trail are not clearly marked, so carrying a trail GPS is highly recommended for navigation. You should also consider wearing appropriate waterproof footwear, as parts of the route can be prone to pooling water.

The Mill Creek Horse Trail offers a secluded journey through Redwood National and State Parks, showcasing the region's varied ecosystems. Beyond the second-growth areas, you will skirt older growth sections before reaching the impressive old-growth grove in the Mill Creek valley. This specific area provides scenic viewpoints and a chance to connect with the ancient forest environment, making it a notable feature of this particular trail.

Step onto the Grove of Titans Trail and immerse yourself in a world of ancient giants. This easy hike takes you through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest, where you'll find some of the largest trees on Earth. You'll follow an elevated boardwalk that winds under a thick canopy and above a fern-covered floor, offering serene views while protecting the delicate ecosystem. The entire route is a gentle 0.9 miles (1.5 km) with only 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it a comfortable walk that most people can complete in about 22 minutes.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Grove of Titans Trail can get very busy, especially if you come during the summer months. While the route is easy, the boardwalk does have steps, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon might help you avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience among the towering trees.

This trail is notable for its impressive collection of ancient redwoods, including some of the world's largest. The elevated boardwalk, completed in 2022, was specifically designed to protect the fragile root systems of these monumental trees while allowing visitors to experience their grandeur up close. It's a unique opportunity to witness a thriving old-growth forest ecosystem and understand the importance of conservation efforts in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

The Coastal Trail to Enderts Beach offers an easy 0.7-mile (1.2 km) hike through lush forests of red alder and Sitka spruce. You will gain a modest 23 feet (7 metres) in elevation, with the entire route taking approximately 19 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, especially from the Crescent Beach Overlook near the trailhead, which provides panoramic vistas of the ocean, beach, and sea stacks. The trail meanders by the canyon of Nickel Creek, leading you towards the sandy expanse of Enderts Beach.

Parking is conveniently available near the trailhead, making access straightforward for your visit. This trail generally sees fewer crowds, offering a sense of solitude as you explore the coastal environment. However, be aware that some sections hugging the cliffs can be precarious due to erosion; exercise caution, particularly if you are hiking with children.

Located within Redwood National Park, this route provides a unique opportunity to explore diverse tide pools at Enderts Beach, especially during low tide. Keep an eye out for various coastal birds, or even gray whales offshore during their migration seasons. The trail's blend of forest and ocean scenery makes it a notable short excursion in the region.

The Hiouchi Trail offers a serene journey through Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, winding along the banks of the pristine Smith River. You'll experience a mix of riparian forest and ancient redwood groves, with the path occasionally dipping down to the water's edge. Near Stout Grove, the redwoods grow impressively large, creating a