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Fern Canyon


Highlights:

Ocean approach to a steep canyon covered in ferns. Redwoods, ferns and rain.
Near:Crescent City, CA
Scenery:
Distance:2.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:317 ft
Hike Time:1.5 hours
Difficulty:Easy
Trail Condition:OK, but a few difficult spots
HikeType:Loop


Summary: Fern Canyon is a very narrow, very steep canyon, covered in lush ferns. You approach the canyon (which looks not so spectacular when you first see it) from the beach, and begin by following the creek upstream.

After a few bends of the stream, the canyon gets extremely narrow (fallen trees bridge bridge the top of the canyon), and extremely green. The beauty of the canyon is listening to the birds and the water, while you stand in the middle of the canyon, between two cliff faces covered in ferns.

Trailhead: Heading North on US 101, turn left onto Davison Road, about 3 miles North of Orick.

Heading South on US 101, turn right onto Davison Road, about 2 miles South of Prarie Creek Visitor Center.

Drive on Davison Road, following the signs to Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Campground. This is a very narrow dirt road, so no trailers are allowed. When the road reaches the beach, take it all the way to the end. There is a campground and a trailhead, pointing the way to Fern Cayon. (Lat:41.40346 Lon:-124.06418)

Trail Guides for Fern Canyon:
California Waterfalls
by Ann Marie Brown (Foghorn Outdoors)

Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers,
Ranger Contact: Redwood National and State Parks, 1111 Second Street, Crescent City, CA 95531
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by David Zwarg, who has posted  9 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Page 1 of 2   Submit your own review
Reviewed by bill on 4/15/2008
It has been a few years since going and we didn't do the entire hike, but it certainly is one I would love to do. the beginning is spectacular, beginning at the oceans edge. We had small children at the time and all who went enjoyed the trip immensly.

Reviewed by JARVIS on 2/3/2008
ONE OF THE PRETTIEST PLACES WE HAVE EVER BEEN.

Reviewed by CZL on 11/25/2007
Fern canyon is a beautiful hike.Many suggestions said to where slip proof shoes,but there had just been a lot of rain in the area and there was basically a steady stream with lots of deep areas.So if you go in the fall season, it may be very wet.The fallen trees in some parts make the trail look as though it's ended,but if you climb over those you'll be led up to the next part of the trail that branches off in two directions.One loops back around to the entrance,and we didn't take the other.Also the drive up to the beach and canyon is awesome and well suited for off-road vehicles.Overall I thought it was incredible.I wasn't expecting so much water,but that made me love it more.It was easy and great for the family.

Reviewed by paul on 7/18/2007
just beautiful. i love the stream that goes from side to side. very peaceful.

Reviewed by Greg on 5/6/2007
Fern Canyon is one of the many best kept non secretes of Northern California. It is a taste of the rain forest. Visiting here has a time traveling effect to the far past. This pristine echosystems exists with plant life teaming with variations of not only ferns but many plant species, not to mention the majestic Redwood trees. In its own rite, Fern Canyon sports its own signiture of special places on this incredible planet.

Reviewed by Joanne on 6/28/2006
Just to give you an idea of how beautiful and lush Fern Canyon is, parts of Jurassic Park 2: The Lost World was filmed there, as well as in nearby Patrick's Point State Park.

Reviewed by Derek on 2/7/2006
Nothing can explain Fern Canyon. Telling people about it doesn't do it justice. You have to hike it yourself to experience the beauty and serenity. Being so close to my home town of Eureka makes it even more special.

Reviewed by Susan on 12/24/2005
This is one of the most magical and beautiful places I have ever been. In September, there were beautiful brooks, with foot bridges....In late December, Home Creek had turned into almost a river..and there was no way to walk into Fern Canyon without getting wet. ...the Canyon is narrow with sheer cliffs covered with ferns...some small waterfalls, moss covered logs....absolutely and totally wonderful... There are a few Roosevelt Elk who might get in your way walking back....


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, Del Norte County Hiking, Del Norte County Trails, Del Norte County Hikes

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