Explore Fern Canyon

Feel like you are in Jurassic Park!

Free
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Imagine walking through a narrow canyon where the walls are completely covered by luxuriant ferns and mosses and are dripping with moisture. Fern Canyon is one of the coolest hikes in the area. You get unbelievable views and atmosphere. Because of frequent coastal fogs, the forests creates its micro-climate. It gets super humid, so your shoes will get wet! You will find a variety of fern species and dozens of other unique plants there. Fern Canyon was a spot used in the filming of Jurassic Park, The Lost World. If that doesn’t tell you how beautiful it is, then remember this movie was supposed to take place on a tropical island. It is one of those hikes you won’t forget.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

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Location

Gold Bluffs Beach, Orick, CA 95555

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4.9 ● Google reviews

Absolutely magical canyon! You have to see it to experience its magnificence. The road to it is kind of intimidating for inexperienced drivers. Also, there are a couple of ditches and streams to drive across. I made it both ways on my 2016 Hyundai Elantra, but I did hit the ground with the bottom of my car once while crossing one of the streams.

The gate all the way to the trail was closed because of all the water. Added about a mile to our hike. There was a lot of water in the canyon. Made it through with waterproof shoes just fine. Lots of jumping on logs and climbing over to avoid the streams. Very beautiful though.

Such a magical place! But warning: It is a 1 lane 5 mi. windy road to get there. Bring cash for parking. You must drive across a river..so good tire clearance is important or you may be disappointed. Be prepared to get your feet wet.

The most incredible place. I would like to return again and again. Were in 2022 with children. We hope to return soon in 2023 for the autumn holidays!

Hiking this fun and gorgeous trail was the highlight of our visit to Redwood NP. We did the hike yesterday and it was absolutely stunning. The road leading to the parking spot is doable for normal cars. Just take it slow. The road isn't narrow as mentioned in some reviews, but that's probably based on the eyes of the beholder. As I'm from Europe, the width is considered normal to me. Doing the hike at this time if the year has benefits. You don't need a permit and it will be quiet. You won't get necessary wet feet, as you can use the logs and rocks to make your way through the canyon. I recommend using a walking stick (we find founds some suitable sticks in the woods and passed them on when we returned) to help keeping your balance. With quality waterproof hiking boots (mine are with Gortex for example) your feet won't get wet if you do step in the water. Some people wore gumboots, but honestly... what's the fun in that 😉. The trail can be done with young kids too. Our kids loved it. You can turn around anytime, if you'd like. You obviously can't bring a stroller, so bring your baby/ toddler in a carrier. In that case, find a walking stick if you'd like to balance your way on the logs.

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