THE LANDSCAPE //
Upon entering the canyon the air was crisp and chilly. The light dappled in from above making the ferns backlit and the most vibrant green color. The drooping ferns create a hanging forest while dense moss wallpapers every surface. The waterfalls and water droplets continuously pour down the face of the rocks and add to the already peaceful environment. Once you’re there, you'll understand why Steven Spielberg chose to film a scene for Jurassic Park II in the canyon.
GETTING THERE //
We randomly stumbled across this trail and knew it would be one of the highlights of our trip. The grueling 8-mile drive to the trailhead took some time and patience. There were some massive potholes, 2-3 stream crossings, and areas that were questionable with our rental car. But we read in advance that plenty of cars can make the drive without problems. The drive itself is an adventure; the big puddles, stream crossings, and elk viewing areas keep you on your toes..
THE TRAIL // RANKED: EASY
Distance: 1.1- mile loop
Elevation Gain: 157 feet
Fees: $8/day
From the parking lot and trailhead, there are two options. Head straight into the canyon or cross the stream and head up above the canyon. I'd highly suggest starting from above and then dropping down into the canyon. This way offers a picturesque, lush forest before descending into the canyon.
In the canyon, the water was mostly ankle deep but a little higher in other areas. Rather than getting our shoes wet, we took them off and walked in our bare feet. I loved climbing over the fallen logs, large rocks, and finding our paths. The water was cold, but the guys couldn't resist stepping under the waterfalls while I opted to take photos. Just after I crossed through a muddy area that was so warm on my feet, it felt like natures mud treatment. By the end of the trail, my feet were feeling it!
For more info on the trail visit Alltrails.com
HELPFUL TO KNOW AHEAD OF TIME //
Be prepared to get your feet wet. There isn't any way to avoid the water unless you have tall rubber rain boots. We took our time and walked the trail in our bare feet. Not for those with sensitive feet but we loved it!
Have small change cash on hand. We self-registered for the $8 per day entry fee by putting money in an envelope at the Gold Bluff Beach kiosk.
Check the road and park conditions before planning your trip. Make sure the park is open and they aren’t doing any sort of maintenance.
Consider bringing a towel if you plan on getting under the falls. The water is chilly, and the canyon doesn't get a ton of light.
Take a windbreaker and some light layers, so you don't get blasted with sand on the beach. Keep your shoes on, there are little nettles in the sand and are painful on your feet.
Give yourself plenty of time. The drive is slow, and although the trail is short, both may be heavily trafficked depending on the time of day and season. You won't want to rush this experience!
WINDY BEACH WALK //
From the west side of the parking lot, you can find the trail to the beach. It's an easy 20-30 minute walk, but at one point you'll have to cross over some water by walking on a big fallen log. As I mentioned above, it was super windy, and the sand hurt when it hit us. If you don't feel like walking all the way to the beach, you can visit Patricks Point State Park in Trinidad on your way out of Orick.
THE DRIVE OUT //
The drive out was a little more comfortable than the drive in, mostly because we knew what to expect. We had the windows down to view the elk in the fields and the sunroof open to take in the breeze. We were silly, and instead of taking the detour around the giant puddle, we decided to go through it. Except we didn't realize just how deep the water was. The water rained in from the sunroof all over us. There were puddles on the seat beside me and inches of water in the cup holders. Needless to say, we spent a couple of hours the next day cleaning the entire interior of the car. Probably one of the funniest moments of my life. (Click to enlarge)
WHAT WE SPENT //
BUDGETING: A general outline of what we spent in USD.
Hotel in Arcata, CA - Ramada Inn - $66.59 total for one night - Booked through Priceline.
Meals - Breakfast $15/per person at The Chalet House of Omelettes in Eureka, CA, Lunch we packed snacks, Dinner $25/ per person at The Lost Coast Brewery in Eureka, CA.
Gold Bluff Beach Park Fee - $8/day use (cash or check only)
Have you visited Fern Canyon or have any recommendations for other hikes or attractions in this area? Comment below! xx ASH
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Read about previous stop in the Redwoods, along with our next stop, in Mt. Shasta.
