One of the Jurassic Park movies were actually filmed here in Fern Canyon. Fern Canyon is an area of old growth redwoods, surfaces covered in ferns and moss and streams all around. It’s near the town of Orrick and driving up to it you are most likely to come across elk. Both times that I had gone, herds of elk were eating or laying around as hikers stop to watch. The one downfall of its beauty, it seems like in the summer time it turns into a zoo with kids and strollers (yes, strollers. Parents must have thought it was a walk in the park before they got out of their cars).
If you’re looking to run or go on a serious hike, it’s probably best to go during the week when it is less crowded. The summer season definitely plays a role in the tourist scene, but getting there in the winter would be difficult because of the rain. Mid-July we had a hard time crossing a road that a stream went through, I could only imagine it being deeper in the off-season. Regardless of the few challenges, it is definitely worth the trek out there! Walking into the canyon is like taking a step into an unfamiliar epoch where monster sized birds were overhead and giant amphibians were the norm. One of my favorite flowers, the Humboldt Lily could be found there. The Lily’s yellow pedals concave inward and are patterned with red spots. They are hard to miss but rather rare. Expect your hike to be wet, a little cold, but extremely worth it.
I recommend wearing water-resistant hiking/running shoes as there are a few streams to cross, but other than that, the trail is very pleasant. Don’t forget to bring your camera! Beautiful pictures are inevitable at Fern Canyon … after all, Jurassic Park was filmed here!
How to Get to Fern Canyon from Arcata (101 South)
If you are coming from Eureka or Arcata, simply hop onto the 101 North for 37 miles and make a left at Davidson road in Orick, California. The 101 goes through the town of Orick, which is famous for wood work so if you have time stop by and buy a little something! Once you make a left, stay on that road and you might actually start seeing Elk hanging out at this point. Keep driving up for about 10 miles, and follow the road up through the forested hill. When it comes back down, you will be on a coastal road. Keep following that road until you can’t drive anymore. You will a parking area to your left. Park there and walk down to the trail head! After you’re done hiking, check out the beach. This is PRISTINE, WILD California coastal land. ENJOY!