Dramatic, rocky cliffs that rise steeply above the swirling surf below welcome you to Mendocino County on California’s northern coast. Starkly beautiful, the coastal and inland area are filled with charming villages and unequalled natural landmarks—from the stately redwoods and trails lined with pygmy cypress to rolling hills draped in vineyards. This low-key paradise awaits with some of the state’s most unique offerings that all add up to one almost guaranteed experience—instant recharge.
Ninety miles of prime Pacific coastline provide the ultimate landscape for renewal with equal parts wine, waves and wilderness making a getaway a sure-fire escape hatch. Linger on the Lost Coast, break a sweat at Bowling Ball Beach or jump on a vintage train through nature’s finest forest—the options for unplugging are endless.
Romantic Rails by Moonlight through the forest
It’s hard to imagine a more novel way to view the majesty of the redwoods than on the iconic Skunk Train, originally used to move the massive redwood logs through this rugged backcountry to the Mendocino coast sawmills. The1885-built Skunk Train, otherwise known as the California Western Railroad, has become one of the most celebrated attractions in Northern California. However, beginning in May 2022, the historic Skunk Train will offer an extraordinary excursion into the redwoods every Saturday evening, Railbikes by Moonlight. Custom-built, two-person, pedal-powered Railbikes allow riders to skim along the tracks just before and after sunset, while enjoying breathtaking scenery along the renowned Redwood Route®.
Railbikes by Moonlight is a unique experience for families and friends, it might make the top of the list for romance. Riders arrive at the Fort Bragg depot 45 minutes before sundown for their adventure, and after learning how to manage their bikes, off they go on the journey, well-equipped with snacks and beverages of their choice and LED lights for the return. Bikes meander along the Pudding Creek Estuary and deep into the heart of the Mendocino forest. The wonder of this untouched stretch of the natural world is just more magical as the sun sets. The bikes arrive at the turnaround point (The Glen), and here, riders disembark and enjoy a leisurely (or romantic) stroll, sit and roast marshmallows by the fire or play a competitive game of cornhole. The interlude lasts an hour, with the first half spent in a twilight setting, and the second half in near-nightfall. LED lights and moonlight illuminate the tracks in the darkness, on the trek back to the station.
Discover gems
Escaping to the Emerald Forest of Mendocino County is a breeze, thanks to the Shady Dell Trail north of Fort Bragg on the remote Lost Coast. Nearly 1,000 acres of wildlands have been protected by the Save the Redwoods League, which in partnership with Mendocino Land Trust and California Coastal Trail, now offers a humbling experience for adventurers seeking the ultimate reboot filled with untamed coastline, sprawling old-growth Douglas fir, majestic Roosevelt elk and lots of solitude. The 2.3- mile trail connects hikers to the inspiring redwoods, as well as arteries leading to the fabled coast with new bridges, a boardwalk, interpretive signs, benches and parking.
Search for rare “rubies” formed from vintage auto tail lights or “sapphires” carved from old bottles along the new trail leading to Glass Beach. Just remember to leave the “gems” where you find them for others to admire and discover. From 1906 to 1967, everything from cars to batteries to bottles, cans and appliances were unceremoniously pushed over the cliffs into the ocean which had been a common practice of seaside cities for centuries. As only nature can do, this trash has been transformed by elements and ocean over the years into a sparkling surprise for visitors and residents in the form of smooth, colored sea glass treasure in a rainbow of colors.
There are actually three glass beaches — all former city trash dump sites — that are layered with beautiful sea glass. The Coastal Trail that opened in June 2016 provides access to the northernmost coves of the Glass Beach complex, previously only accessible via kayak or at very low tides. Handrails have been installed, as well as hand-crafted benches by local artists and woodworkers at various points along the trail. Plan a picnic on the rocks and cliffs overlooking the most northern Glass Beach, located in MacKerricher State Park.
If you don’t have a chance to explore the beach itself, you can still admire thousands of pieces of the multi-colored sea glass at the International Sea Glass Museum in Fort Bragg, billed as the largest collection of sea glass in the world. Jewelry and gift items for purchase at the museum will make up for the glass you need to leave behind on the beach.
Hike to Bowling Ball Beach
If you are seeking a once-in-a-lifetime hiking adventure straight from the geology archives of Mother Nature, pack your hiking boots and explore Bowling Ball Beach. View the odd-shaped balls, carved from centuries of ocean wear, standing sentinel at Schooner’s Gulch State Beach, a quiet spot near Point Arena. Just off Highway 1, tide- and weather-dependent tours lead visitors down to the shoreline showcasing a jaw-dropping myriad of concretions hugging the surf. Dramatic views, tide pools and optional picnic round out the 2.9-mile roundtrip.
Vineyards and goats in Anderson Valley
The morning fog rests lightly on the grapes of Anderson Valley, but soon gives way to a warm and sunny afternoon. This coastal influence has inspired the inland Mendocino area’s impressive pinot noir production. Nine miles east of Mendocino’s coast, the valley’s 2,500 vineyard acres boast 28 tasting venues. Stock you wine cellar with labels like Goldeneye, Navarro Vineyards, Baxter Winery and Domaine Anderson Estate on board.
Nothing pairs better with wine than cheese, so be sure to add a visit to the recently opened Pennyroyal Farm Tasting Room and Milking Parlor. At the farm, visitors discover Velvet Sister, Bollie’s Mollies and fresh Laychee goat cheese on tap, as well as guided tours showcasing more than 100 farmstead dairy goats and sheep. The hour-long tour includes behind-the-scenes looks at the creamery, barn and production facility culminating with a complimentary cheese tasting. Cheesemaker Erika Sharfen and owner Sarah Cahn Bennett (of Navarro Wines family) do double duty serving Pennyroyal’s Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Rose.
