Russian Gulch State Park Tours

New growth redwoods grow aplenty along the East Trail of Russian Gulch State Park in Mendocino, California. There is a waterfall nearby worth the hike, but just enjoying the redwoods on the East trail as well as the Falls Loop Trail is worth it in themselves. If you get going early enough in the morning, you might have them all to yourself. Access the East Trail from State Road 409, 1.25 miles up from Hwy 1.
New growth redwoods grow aplenty along the East Trail of Russian Gulch State Park in Mendocino, California. There is a waterfall nearby worth the hike, but just enjoying the redwoods on the East trail as well as the Falls Loop Trail is worth it in themselves. If you get going early enough in the morning, you might have them all to yourself. Access the East Trail from State Road 409, 1.25 miles up from Hwy 1.
A wonderful 3 mile hike brings you to this lovely 30-foot waterfall in this hidden gem of a state park. The Fern Canyon Trail takes you to the Falls Loop Trail. I'd take the more direct trail left at the fork, but make sure you complete the loop by taking the trail over the waterfall ledge. The return part of the loop trail is full of magical groves of old and new growth redwoods. The whole trek from parking lot is about 7 miles, but worth every step. If you hit the trail early enough you might get the waterfall for yourself for a bit. (1 mile north of Mendocino, $8 day use fee)
Today’s find: A waterfall in the middle of Russian Gulch State Park. We parked on the outskirts of the park and took the shorter hike (2 miles round trip) down “East Trail”. The trail will take you on a quiet walk through a lush forest and ends at the waterfall.
Russian Gulch is crossed by California State Highway 1, which passes over the gulch on the Frederick W. Panhorst Bridge, a large concrete arch bridge constructed in 1940.

Reviews of Russian Gulch State Park

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
92
5 - Excellent 56%
4 - Good
58
4 - Good 36%
3 - Okay
9
3 - Okay 6%
2 - Disappointing
3
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Hike to the waterfalls. Its beautiful. Hike in from the Horse camp pull out, up hwy 409 .

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

Way to many people. Parking was terrible and it cost to get in.

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

Dogs are not permitted.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Don't go for the beach. Go for the forest, picnic areas, and hikes.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

The beach is not much but the feature in the area is the forested area all around. If you pay the day use fee make sure you do more than just visit the beach.

Popular places to visit

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Temple of Kwan Tai

After visiting Temple of Kwan Tai, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Mendocino. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Temple of Kwan Tai
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Mendocino Headlands State Park

Hike through this scenic park for its excellent views and beaches and browse the fascinating exhibits in the visitor center.

Mendocino Headlands State Park
When visiting the quaint coastal town of Mendocino, this is a great place to stroll and enjoy the fantastic views, even on a cloudy day.

Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park

You can take time to visit Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park during your travels to Mendocino. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park
Loving the spring blooms in Caspar Mendocino County #pattern

Caspar Headlands State Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Caspar Headlands State Beach during your trip to Caspar? While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Caspar Headlands State Beach
The Fern Canyon Trail in Van Damme State Park did not disappoint. It winds through a dense fern-filled forest along “Little River”. If you’re looking for a secluded trail to enjoy the fresh air and nature sounds, this is the place to be.

Van Damme State Park

You can take time to visit Van Damme State Park during your travels to Little River. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its charming coffeehouses.

Van Damme State Park
Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens which includes a garden

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

Take a tour of this enormous floral haven and follow the trail to the coast for excellent views of the Pacific Ocean.

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

Best Lodging Options Near Russian Gulch State Park

Mendo Bungalow

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Agate Cove Inn

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Harbor Lite Lodge

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Heritage House Resort & Spa

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SCP Mendocino Inn and Farm

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Seafoam Lodge

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Headlands Inn Bed & Breakfast

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Hill House Inn

Hill House Inn

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Inns of Mendocino

Inns of Mendocino

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