Top 11 Natural Monuments around Little River

Surrounding the town of Mendocino is Mendocino Headlands State Park, with rocky shorelines, an abundance of hiking trails, windswept foothills, panoramic ocean views, and chances to see whales in the ocean. Some of the best hiking trails stretch along the cliff, a prime spot to see the arches and rocky sea caves that dot the cliffs. Take the stone stairs that lead to the remote but beautiful Portuguese beach. Or take the cliff path down to Big River Beach, the perfect place to sit with a book and do nothing for a while.

Russian Gulch State Park is a California state park in coastal Mendocino County, California, 2 miles (3.2 km) north of Mendocino and 7 miles (11.2 km) south of Fort Bragg.

Explore the Pygmy Forest Discovery Trail, a short 300-yard loop boardwalk at Van Damme's eastern end, just two miles inland from Highway One. Over the course of 300,000 years, the forces of nature, including poor acidic soil and hardpan, have created a miniature wonderland resembling a bonsai forest. As you stroll along the boardwalk, you'll encounter interpretive panels that reveal the fascinating story behind these diminutive trees. Here, you'll find Bollander pine (exclusive to the pygmy forest), bishop pine, dwarf manzanita, and Mendocino cypress. Trees that would typically grow over 100 feet tall elsewhere are only a few feet tall here, with trunks as thin as a quarter-inch. The boardwalk hovers just above the forest floor to protect the nutrient-rich lichen. In some spots, you'll be eye-level with these ancient, tiny treetops. Don't miss the chance to explore this living testament to nature's forces!

This trail is a visual feast with awe-inspiring vistas of the deep blue ocean, powerful crashing waves, and majestic towering cliffs. What truly stands out are the natural sea arches that adorn this rugged coastal stretch. As you explore, keep an eye out for the enchanting cypress trees perched along the cliffs and the mesmerizing natural rock formations. Always be aware that powerful waves can potentially sweep you out to sea in any season and under various ocean conditions. Stay cautious and prioritize your safety when near the water.

Stunning waterfall that nestles among lush ferns and moss. Great place to stop for a break anytime of year. There are wild mushrooms in the winter months and colorful wildflowers in the spring.

A wide bikeable dirt trail leads to the rocks reaching out into Mendocino Bay. The waves have eroded underneath the bluffs, and a sinkhole collapsed in the middle, creating two tall natural arches. The views from the edge of the bluffs are panoramic

The Shoreline Hwy 1 bridge crossing Russian Gulch built in the 1930s provides panoramic views to the mouth of the gulch opening to the ocean, and east to the trailhead