01
Best overall pick
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area
Along Highway 101 South Of Laytonville • Riverside Redwood State Park With Varied Trails • Best Overall Hiking Basecamp
A classic South Fork Eel River stop with shaded redwood hikes ranging from easy strolls to steeper canyon climbs.
For many locals, this is the go-to choice when they want real hiking without a long drive. The trails weave between big trees, river overlooks, and quiet side gullies, so you can tailor your route to the time and energy you have. On hot days, pairing a morning loop with an afternoon swim in the river makes this spot hard to beat.
02
Best quick stop on 101
Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Highway 101 North Of Leggett • Compact Roadside Old-Growth Grove • Top Leg-Stretcher On A Road Trip
A small but impressive cluster of towering redwoods with short paths and viewpoints just minutes from the highway.
If you do not have time for a long hike but still want to feel the scale of old-growth trees, Smithe Redwoods is a smart choice. Short trails, picnic tables, and a nearby waterfall viewpoint make it easy to stretch your legs and grab a few photos. It is ideal for travelers breaking up the drive between Laytonville and the North Coast.
03
Worth-the-detour redwood grove
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve
Southwest Of Laytonville In The Coast Range • Secluded Redwood Preserve With A Forest Loop • Classic Cathedral-Redwood Hike
A quietly spectacular loop through one of Mendocino County’s most atmospheric redwood groves.
Reaching Montgomery Woods involves a curvy drive, but the payoff is a peaceful bowl of towering trees and soft, fern-lined trail. The main loop is short enough for casual hikers yet packed with photo-worthy light and texture. Go early or on a weekday if you want the grove largely to yourself.
04
Most trail variety
Jackson Demonstration State Forest
Between Willits And The Mendocino Coast • Expansive Working Forest With Singletrack And Old Roads • Best For Mixing Hiking And Exploring
A sprawling forest network where you can link mellow fire roads, narrow creekside paths, and steeper ridge climbs into custom routes.
Jackson Demonstration State Forest rewards those who like to wander and explore. Trailheads are scattered, and many routes can be turned into loops or out-and-backs depending on how far you want to go. It is a good pick if you are pairing a Laytonville stay with a drive toward the coast and want quieter trails than the busier seaside parks.
05
Wild backcountry escape
Mendocino National Forest – Eel River & Covelo Area
East Of Laytonville Via Highway 162 • Rugged Inland Forest And High-Country Trail Network • Best For Remote Backcountry Feel
A more remote option with longer, less-traveled trails that climb into high ridges and lookouts above the Eel River country.
If you are comfortable with maps and do not mind a bit of driving on back roads, the national forest east of Covelo opens up a different side of the region. Trails here feel wilder and more exposed than the coastal redwood hikes, with big-sky views and real solitude. Pack extra water, check conditions, and treat it as a full-day adventure rather than a quick outing.