Miles of trails offer stunning coastal and redwood forest scenery
Picturesque Mendocino Headlands State Park offers striking views from the sea to the inland forest. The park surrounds the historic town of Mendocino and offers a range of opportunities for exploring and sightseeing.
ACTIVITIES: Hiking, surfing, fishing, whale-watching, kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking, picnicking, horseback riding, swimming in Big River, strolling along the bluffs. Paddlers can traverse Big River through a forested canyon to the sea and enjoy sea caves and a striking view of Mendocino. (You can rent kayaks at Catch-a-Canoe & Bicycles Too.) Watch for river otters! Beautiful Big River Beach is also accessible by trails down the bluffs. Extensive hiking trails meander through the park and surrounding public lands and provide amazing views of redwoods and the river. If you're there in late summer, be sure to try some of Big River's blackberries, renowned among locals.
ACCESSIBLE FEATURES: Restrooms and some trails.
DOGS: Not allowed on trails. On leash elsewhere.
Take a tour of this park with Google Street View Treks. (external link)
Directions
More Details
Weather Forecast
Amenities & Fees
Entry is free and open to the public.
What To Pack
- Safety: We want visitors to enjoy their experience safely. Simple actions can positively increase your outdoor experience. Such actions include taking water and snacks along with you, staying on designated trails, taking breaks, and letting people know where you are going and approximately what time you're coming back. For more outdoor safety tips, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips (external link).
- What To Bring: Layers of clothing. In the rainy season, pack warm hats, scarves, mittens and plenty of thick, fast-drying socks. And don't forget the raincoats and rain pants. Water, snacks a field guide, binoculars.
Additional Information
Visit the Mendocino Headlands State Park website (external link), the Mendocino Area Parks Association website (external link), or call the Ford House visitor center at 707-937-5397. The Russian Gulch, Mendocino Headlands and Van Damme State Parks Brochure contains valuable information for trip planning.