Del Norte County, California: A Land of Towering Redwoods and Rugged Coastlines

Main Attractions in Del Norte County

1. Redwood National and State Parks:

Del Norte County is home to part of the Redwood National and State Parks, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic natural areas in California. The parks are famous for their ancient coastal redwoods, the tallest trees on Earth. Trails wind through towering groves, such as the Stout Grove in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, offering visitors a chance to experience the majesty of these ancient giants. Visitors can explore the Boy Scout Tree Trail, a stunning hike through old-growth forest, or take a scenic drive along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. The park’s diverse ecosystems also include prairies, oak woodlands, and riverbanks teeming with wildlife, including elk and bald eagles.

2. Battery Point Lighthouse:

Situated on a small island off the coast of Crescent City, the Battery Point Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast, dating back to 1856. Accessible only during low tide, this picturesque lighthouse offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Crescent Harbor. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history, including its role in guiding ships along the rugged Northern California coastline. The surrounding area is great for beachcombing and spotting seals and sea lions.

3. Smith River National Recreation Area:

The Smith River, one of the cleanest and wildest rivers in California, flows through Del Norte County and is part of the Smith River National Recreation Area. This river is renowned for its clear emerald-green waters and is a favorite spot for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Anglers can try their hand at catching salmon and steelhead, while thrill-seekers can take on the river’s challenging whitewater rapids. For a more peaceful experience, the area offers plenty of scenic hiking trails, such as the Darlingtonia Trail, which leads through a carnivorous plant bog.

4. Crescent Beach:

Located just south of Crescent City, Crescent Beach offers a long stretch of sandy shoreline and breathtaking coastal views. It’s a great spot for a relaxing day by the ocean, beachcombing, or watching the sunset. The beach is known for its tide pools and the occasional sighting of whales, seals, and seabirds. The nearby Enderts Beach is another popular destination for hiking and tide pooling, with scenic overlooks and access to more remote stretches of the coastline.

5. Trees of Mystery:

A unique and family-friendly attraction, the Trees of Mystery in Klamath showcases the wonder of the redwoods in a way that’s both educational and entertaining. Visitors can explore trails through the forest, where they’ll find unusual tree formations, such as the Cathedral Tree and the Brotherhood Tree. The park also features a SkyTrail gondola ride, offering aerial views of the redwood canopy. The onsite End of the Trail Museum houses an extensive collection of Native American artifacts, providing insight into the cultural history of the region.

6. Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park:

Another gem of Del Norte County, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park features dramatic coastal views and dense redwood groves. The Mill Creek Campground is a favorite among campers, offering access to trails that wind through lush forests and along rocky bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Last Chance Section of the historic California Coastal Trail runs through the park, providing hikers with sweeping ocean views and a chance to immerse themselves in one of California’s most beautiful and remote landscapes.

7. Tolowa Dunes State Park:

Located just north of Crescent City, Tolowa Dunes State Park encompasses coastal dunes, wetlands, and the mouth of the Smith River. The park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with a wide variety of bird species, including pelicans, herons, and egrets. The Yontocket Marsh, a key area within the park, is historically significant to the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation and holds cultural importance. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, which offer views of the dunes, beaches, and river estuaries.

Famous Cities and Towns in Del Norte County

1. Crescent City:

The county seat and largest city in Del Norte County, Crescent City is a charming coastal town known for its rugged beauty and proximity to both redwoods and the Pacific Ocean. The city’s most iconic landmark, the Battery Point Lighthouse, draws visitors year-round. Crescent City is also home to a scenic harbor where fishing boats come and go, offering a glimpse into the region’s maritime culture. The city is a jumping-off point for exploring the Redwood National and State Parks, as well as the nearby beaches, forests, and rivers. Ocean World, an interactive marine park, offers family-friendly fun, while the city’s Pebble Beach Drive provides stunning views of the Pacific coastline.

2. Klamath:

Situated along the Klamath River, the small community of Klamath is rich in both natural beauty and Native American history. The area is known for the Trees of Mystery attraction, which celebrates the redwoods, as well as the Klamath River Overlook, a prime spot for whale watching. Klamath is also home to the Requa Inn, a historic bed-and-breakfast that offers stunning views of the river and ocean. The town’s proximity to the Klamath River makes it a popular destination for fishing, and the river’s estuary is an important area for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

3. Smith River:

A small, unincorporated community located near the Oregon border, Smith River is known for its natural beauty and agricultural production, particularly Easter lily farming. The town is situated along the banks of the Smith River, making it a popular destination for fishing and kayaking. Visitors to Smith River can enjoy the nearby beaches, such as Pelican State Beach, or explore the Smith River National Recreation Area. The community also hosts the annual Smith River Days, a celebration of local culture, with events centered around the river and outdoor activities.