California North Coast Day Trips

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California North Coast stretches along 400 miles of rocky coastline north from San Francisco to the Oregon border. Some of California's most scenic and un crowded areas are here along the rugged cliffs or the Pacific Ocean. Inland you will find towering forests and crystal clear lakes and rivers all waiting to be explored. Outdoor activities include sightseeing, hiking, kayaking, river rafting, mountain biking, wildlife, rock climbing, fishing and camping. Pacific Coast Highway is your gateway to the north coast passing through small coastal towns until it turns inland and connects with highway 101. The highway returns back to the coast at Humbolt bay and heads to the Oregon border after passing through Crescent City. Exploring this 400 mile section of California can take a whole vacation . Listed here are some of the major attractions of the North Coast. This section of California is vast plan on spending one day visiting each destination. If your on vacation you will be able to visit several at one time. Lodging is limited in the California North Coast mostly concentrated around the small towns. There are plenty of places to camp for RV's and tents.

		Eureka California - Eureka, the heart and soul of California's North Coast. Eureka has beautiful Victorian homes including the famous Carson Mansion..
		Redwood National and State Parks - These parks contain protected old growth coast redwoods and some of the world's tallest trees. The park contains miles of coastline and three major rivers.
		Point Arena Lighthouse - The only Pacific West coast lighthouse of significant height (115 feet) that you can climb to the top. Tours of the light stationgrounds are available daily.
	Skunk Train: Fort Bragg - The Skunk line runs 40 miles from Fort Bragg on the coast to Willits. Along the way, the tracks cross some 30 bridges and trestles and pass through two mountain tunnels.	Bodega Bay - Perfect for a romantic weekend or a day trip. Beaches to explore, fresh sea food and beautiful Sonoma Coast. The drive from San Francisco is about two hours.
	Mendocino Coast - Spectacular ocean views and charming Victorian Villages dot the scenic Mendocino Coastline of Northern California. The rocky and scenic Mendocino coastline is waiting to be discovered.	Trees of Mystery - In the center of the Redwood National and State parks ride the Sky Trail Lift for views of the trees and Ocean. Also the End of the Trail Museum a native American Museum.
	Point Cabrillo Light Station - The Point Cabrillo Preserve includes the historic 1909 Light Station (30.5 acres), and approximately 270 acres of undeveloped coastal bluffs and prairie.	Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens - Manicured formal gardens, a dense coastal pine forest, fern-covered canyons, diverse plant collections, and flower-filled coastal bluffs overlooking the Ocean.
	Blue Ox Historic Park - Ornamental iron work is produced in the blacksmith shop. The skid camp is a re-creation of the old logging camps featuring a cook shack, bunkhouse and theatre.	Arcata Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary -the marsh has approximately 225 acres open to the public. Over 250 species of birds have been spotted at the marsh. The Arcata Marsh Center is open to the public.
	The Carson Mansion - One of the most written about, and photographed Victorian houses in California. The elaborate interiors include stained glass, plaster work and carved ornaments.	Fort Bragg - Located on the scenic Mendocino coast, surrounded by beautiful redwood forests and the Pacific Ocean. Departing point of the world-famous Skunk train. Fishing charters from the harbor.
	Clarke Historical Museum - The exhibits in the 1912 bank building show the history of Humboldt County, with emphasis on the late 1800's. The displays include items from the Victorian period.	Grace Hudson Museum - Collections consist of more than 30,000 objects, with significant Pomo Indian artifacts. Hudson-Carpenter Park with picnic tables shaded by ancient oaks and a basketry garden
	Mendocino National Forest - The forest's 913,306 acres offer a variety of recreational opportunities - camping, hiking, backpacking, boating, fishing, hunting, nature study and photography.	Safari West Wildlife Preserve - Head out into the bush on an African Safari without leaving California. Santa Rosa is your starting point for your safari adventure. Overnight Safari tents are also available.