The best walks and hikes around Crescent City

Embark on the challenging Mill Creek Horse Trail, a 10.6-mile (17.0 km) hiking route that takes you through diverse Northern California landscapes. You will experience a significant climb of 1753 feet (534 metres) as you traverse undulating terrain, including a steep ascent up Howland Hill. The route winds through second-growth redwood forests and spruce groves, culminating in a unique and expansive old-growth grove of large, straight redwoods in the Mill Creek valley, offering a deep sense of forest immersion. This difficult hike typically takes around 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail involves two seasonal fords of Mill Creek. These crossings are closed from October 15th to March 31st, or sometimes until May 31st, to protect salmon spawning, though an alternate route is available. Some sections of the trail are not clearly marked, so carrying a trail GPS is highly recommended for navigation. You should also consider wearing appropriate waterproof footwear, as parts of the route can be prone to pooling water.

The Mill Creek Horse Trail offers a secluded journey through Redwood National and State Parks, showcasing the region's varied ecosystems. Beyond the second-growth areas, you will skirt older growth sections before reaching the impressive old-growth grove in the Mill Creek valley. This specific area provides scenic viewpoints and a chance to connect with the ancient forest environment, making it a notable feature of this particular trail.

The Coastal Trail to Enderts Beach offers an easy 0.7-mile (1.2 km) hike through lush forests of red alder and Sitka spruce. You will gain a modest 23 feet (7 metres) in elevation, with the entire route taking approximately 19 minutes to complete. As you hike, you will enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, especially from the Crescent Beach Overlook near the trailhead, which provides panoramic vistas of the ocean, beach, and sea stacks. The trail meanders by the canyon of Nickel Creek, leading you towards the sandy expanse of Enderts Beach.

Parking is conveniently available near the trailhead, making access straightforward for your visit. This trail generally sees fewer crowds, offering a sense of solitude as you explore the coastal environment. However, be aware that some sections hugging the cliffs can be precarious due to erosion; exercise caution, particularly if you are hiking with children.

Located within Redwood National Park, this route provides a unique opportunity to explore diverse tide pools at Enderts Beach, especially during low tide. Keep an eye out for various coastal birds, or even gray whales offshore during their migration seasons. The trail's blend of forest and ocean scenery makes it a notable short excursion in the region.

Embark on an easy hike to the historic Battery Point Lighthouse, a short 0.4-mile (0.7 km) route with a minimal 2 feet (1 metre) elevation gain. This quick adventure takes about 10 minutes to complete, leading you across a unique rocky tidal land bridge. As you approach the lighthouse, you will enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and discover fascinating tide pools teeming with marine life like snails and crabs.

Planning your visit requires checking the tide schedule carefully, as the land bridge to the lighthouse is only accessible during low tide. High tide completely covers the path, making it impossible to reach the island and potentially stranding visitors. Be ready for potentially wet conditions on the rocky pathway, even when the tide is low.

The iconic Battery Point Lighthouse, a picturesque white Cape Cod-style structure with a red lantern room, dates back to 1856. Once you are on the island, you can explore this historic landmark and take in panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. This short route offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Embark on an easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) hike along the Lake Earl Wildlife Area Trail, a route that takes about 45 minutes to complete with a gentle 30 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain. You will wander through towering Grand Firs and Sitka Spruce forests, which gradually open up to sandy dunes. Enjoy expansive views of Lake Earl and Lake Tolowa, and keep an eye out for a peaceful beaver pond along the way.

This easy trail offers a tranquil outdoor experience, often attracting fewer crowds than other routes in the area. Located near Crescent City, general parking is usually available, making it simple to access the trailhead. The varied terrain, featuring both sandy sections and old dirt roads, is suitable for most skill levels, ensuring a pleasant outing for nearly everyone.

The Lake Earl Wildlife Area is home to the largest coastal lagoon system on the West Coast, making this trail a prime spot for nature observation. The area boasts a rich diversity of bird species, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting as you explore. It is a notable destination for those seeking a quiet connection with nature.