Explore the Radiance of Russian Gulch Waterfall

Gorgeous greenery, breathtaking views, and a fairytale waterfall!

Last updated: Jan 2024

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$8 State Park Fee
More than 500 Miles from you
Local Selection: Exceptional experiences in your area that exceed expectations
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Description

Grab your hiking shoes and prepare to explore the gorgeous Russian Gulch Waterfall Loop Trail in NorCal. This 3.8 mile loop trail is the perfect addition to any day. Be greeted by the beautiful fern walls and redwood forests that await you in this oasis of greenery. The wide open space heeds true to the peaceful surroundings that this trail has to offer. Wild mushrooms, beautiful flowers, and towering trees are just the beginning of what makes up these incredible views. Climb over the wooden bridge that leads to the breathtaking and magical waterfall; a true visual representation of earth and water colliding.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

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Itinerary

Get your hiking shoes ready for an adventure
Pull out your map and head along the trail
Admire the beautiful redwoods around you
Listen to the peaceful sounds of nature
Be entranced by the magical waterfall amongst the trees and greenery
Take pictures to documents nature's gift
Congratulations on a hike well done!

Location

State Rt 1 Mendocino, CA 95460

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Packing List

map
backpack
hiking shoes
water
snacks
sunscreen
first aid kit

4.8 ● Google reviews

Very nice State Park. You can go to the beach side to see the historic bridge and the ocean, or do the hike to the waterfall, which is long, but worth it, and a chance to hike through old growth redwood forests. The hike is over 8 miles round trip so it's a pretty long one, but not terribly difficult, and it does make a loop so it's not an out-and-back trail. There are plenty of services here, water and restrooms, and a campground. Classic California State Park, one of the best in this part of the North Coast.

We also didn't visit this park, and I'm so glad we did. Aside from the lighthouse visite, I think this is a mandatory visit for anyone visiting this area. So much cool things to see here and different levels of trails to hike if you're into that. As for the waterfalls, you have to hike to see it, but there's an easier trail to get there if that's not your thing. Picnic, camping, and scenic views all o er this place.

The falls trail was great. The falls are spectacular. It was a bit muddy in spots but no big deal. The park is very nice. Restrooms are very clean. It was worth the entry fee

I love this place! It has a beautiful hike that leads you to a waterfall. You can also camp here and this time I went with my daughters so I just stopped by the bridge. There is a small entrance fee but it's worth it.

Beautiful, lush, perfect state park. Hiked the fern canyon trail to the waterfall after the storm back at the start of February. Winter hiking made it more exciting, as there were plenty of fun obstacles to go over and/or under to continue on the path. From the fern canyon trail, took the shorter part of the loop to the waterfall; one way was about 3.25 miles. I also took the opportunity to look at the russian gulch bridge view, which was amazing. Very much worth the visit, and the fee, to support the state park!

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