Located on the far North Coast of California, about 270 miles north of San Francisco, is extraordinary Humboldt County. The nature and history rich region features the world famous Redwood National Park, Avenue of the Giants and the Lost Coast, as well as surprising cultural experiences in Victorian towns and seaports. Take your pick and be part of the magic in Humboldt.
Join the Lost Coast elephants
One of the largest but least known colonies of elephant seals in California gathers along the Lost Coast early each year. The mating and birthing phase is nearly complete, but the hundreds of Miroungans lounging, writhing, snorting and bellowing between Cape Mendocino and the Punta Gorda Lighthouse should put on quite a show into May. More
Take in Humboldt’s original skunk weed
Delicate spring flowers. Meh. Who needs ‘em? Breathe in a different kind of botanical wonder, skunk cabbages blossoming all over the swamps and creeks of Redwood National Park. The unforgettable stench from the odd yellow hoods of Lysichiton americanus attracts little pollinating fliers. The impressive length of its gargantuan leaves attracts nature lovers of all sizes. More
Tour the Visitor Center at Stone Lagoon
The Yurok tribe this month opened the Chah-pekw O’ Ket’-toh Visitor Center at Stone Lagoon, a pristine coastal waterway popular with paddlers a few miles south of Redwood National and State Parks. The first tribally operated visitor center within the state park system, the Hwy 101 stop features tribal exhibits, arts and gifts. Ask about nearby Yurok guided canoe trips. More
Explore Jurassic Park’s Fern Canyon
The star of Jurassic Park II, Fern Canyon in Redwood National and State Parks will require parking reservations for auto access between May and September. The pilot program, which includes nearby Gold Bluffs Beach, is meant to ease traffic flow to the popular natural attraction, a stunning chasm draped in luxuriant fronds and seasonal waterfalls. More
Built like an Ox? How about built BY an Ox?
Eric Hollenbeck’s works are in the White House and the Governor’s Mansion, but the wizard of wood’s greatest triumph is the Blue Ox Millworks, a machine shop of Gingerbread wonders, where he makes parts to order for Victorian homes across the nation. Take the tour in Eureka, or watch him on The Craftsman, a new series on the Magnolia Network. Trailer
Plan your trip to Humboldt here.
Courtesy photos
