Home to 37% of California’s remaining old-growth redwoods, Del Norte County offers a rare glimpse into ancient forests that once dominated the Pacific Coast. This remote northwestern corner of California stands as a testament to conservation, where thousand-year-old trees tower alongside dramatic coastlines. For travelers seeking both natural wonder and peaceful solitude, Del Norte County delivers experiences that simply can’t be found elsewhere in the Golden State.
Planning Your Journey to Del Norte County
Tucked away in California’s far northwestern corner, Del Norte County requires some planning to visit. The remote location is precisely what preserves its natural beauty and tranquility. Before diving into the best things to do, let’s cover the essentials for making your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Ready to Explore Del Norte County?
Start planning your adventure to this redwood paradise with these essential travel services:
Getting to Del Norte County
Del Norte County is approximately six hours north of San Francisco and five hours southwest of Portland, Oregon. While remote, this isolation preserves the area’s natural beauty and uncrowded experience.
By Air
The Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC) in Crescent City offers daily flights through Contour Airlines connecting to Oakland International Airport. This is the fastest way to reach the area, though you’ll still need to rent a car to explore effectively.
By Car
Most visitors drive to Del Norte County via Highway 101, which offers spectacular views along the Pacific coastline. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, with numerous scenic viewpoints and attractions along the way. A rental car is essential for exploring the region’s scattered attractions.
When to Visit Del Norte County
Del Norte County’s climate more closely resembles the Pacific Northwest than typical California weather. The region experiences cool temperatures year-round, with abundant rainfall creating the lush environment that supports the magnificent redwood forests.
| Season | Temperature | Precipitation | Best For |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 55-70°F | Low | Hiking, beach activities, wildlife viewing |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 45-65°F | Moderate | Fewer crowds, salmon fishing, fall colors |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 40-55°F | Heavy | Storm watching, whale migration |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 45-60°F | Moderate | Wildflowers, river activities, waterfalls |
Summer (June through August) offers the most reliable weather with temperatures occasionally reaching the pleasant 70s. This is peak tourist season, though even then, Del Norte County remains less crowded than many California destinations. Spring brings wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, while fall offers spectacular salmon runs and fewer visitors. Winter, though rainy, provides dramatic storm watching opportunities along the coast.
Top Attractions in Del Norte County
Redwood National and State Parks
Del Norte County is home to portions of the magnificent Redwood National and State Parks system, including Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. These protected areas preserve some of the world’s tallest and oldest living organisms.
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Often considered the crown jewel of Del Norte’s redwood forests, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park contains 7% of all remaining old-growth redwoods in the world. Don’t miss Stout Grove, an easily accessible and breathtaking stand of massive redwoods along the Smith River. The dappled light filtering through these giants creates an almost spiritual experience.
Experience the Majesty of Ancient Redwoods
Book a guided tour to learn about these remarkable ecosystems from knowledgeable local experts:
Battery Point Lighthouse
This iconic lighthouse sits on a small island just off the coast of Crescent City. Built in 1856, Battery Point Lighthouse is accessible by foot during low tide when a land bridge appears. The lighthouse survived the devastating tsunami that hit Crescent City in 1964 and now serves as a museum with fascinating exhibits about the area’s maritime history.
Smith River
The Smith River is California’s only undammed major river system, flowing freely from the mountains to the sea. Its pristine emerald-green waters offer some of the best fishing, kayaking, and rafting opportunities in the state. The river is renowned for its salmon and steelhead runs, drawing anglers from across the country.
Outdoor Activities in Del Norte County
Hiking Through Ancient Forests
Del Norte County offers some of California’s most spectacular hiking trails. From easy walks through cathedral-like groves to challenging backcountry routes, there’s something for every skill level.
Water Adventures
The pristine waters of Del Norte County provide endless opportunities for adventure:
River Activities
- Kayaking the crystal-clear Smith River
- Whitewater rafting with local guides
- Fishing for salmon and steelhead
- Swimming in natural river pools
Ocean Adventures
- Tidepooling along rocky shores
- Whale watching (peak seasons: Dec-Jan, Mar-Apr)
- Beach combing for agates and driftwood
- Surfing at South Beach (for experienced surfers)
Beaches and Coastal Exploration
Del Norte County’s coastline features dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and expansive beaches. Unlike Southern California’s crowded shores, these beaches offer solitude and natural beauty:
Cultural Experiences in Del Norte County
Indigenous Heritage
Del Norte County is the ancestral home of the Tolowa Dee-ni’, Yurok, Elk Valley Rancheria, and Resighini Rancheria tribes. Their rich cultural heritage continues to thrive in the region today.
Visitors can learn about indigenous history and culture through several experiences:
Local Attractions
Beyond natural wonders, Del Norte County offers several unique attractions:
Where to Stay in Del Norte County
Del Norte County offers a range of accommodations from oceanfront hotels to forest cabins. Most options are concentrated in and around Crescent City, the county seat.
Hotels & Motels
Crescent City offers several oceanfront properties with stunning views. The Oceanfront Lodge and Lighthouse Inn are local favorites with comfortable rooms and convenient locations.
Vacation Rentals
For more space and amenities, consider a vacation rental. Options range from oceanfront homes along Pebble Beach Drive to cozy cabins near the redwoods.
Camping
Experience the redwoods up close at Jedediah Smith Campground or Mill Creek Campground. For coastal camping, try Panther Beach or Ruby Van Deventer County Park.
Find Your Perfect Stay in Del Norte County
Browse a wide selection of accommodations to suit every preference and budget:
Dining in Del Norte County
Del Norte County’s culinary scene focuses on fresh local ingredients, particularly seafood harvested from the Pacific Ocean and rivers.
Local Specialties
Most restaurants are concentrated in Crescent City, with a few options scattered throughout smaller communities. For a special experience, look for restaurants with ocean views where you can watch for whales while dining.
Practical Tips for Visiting Del Norte County
Getting Around
A car is essential for exploring Del Norte County effectively. The attractions are spread out, and public transportation is limited. Consider renting a high-clearance vehicle if you plan to explore unpaved roads like Howland Hill Road through Jedediah Smith Redwoods.
Explore Del Norte County Your Way
Rent a reliable vehicle to reach all the area’s hidden gems:
Weather Preparedness
Del Norte County’s weather can change rapidly. Pack layers, rain gear, and waterproof hiking boots regardless of season. Fog is common year-round, especially along the coast. Even summer days can be cool, particularly near the ocean or under the redwood canopy.
Cell Service and Navigation
Cell service is spotty throughout Del Norte County, particularly in the redwood forests and along remote stretches of coastline. Download offline maps before your trip, and consider bringing printed maps as backup. The visitor centers in Crescent City and Hiouchi provide excellent free maps and current trail information.
Safety Information
Ocean Safety: Never turn your back on the ocean. Sneaker waves can occur without warning on Del Norte beaches. Keep a safe distance from the water’s edge, especially during high tide or stormy conditions.
Wildlife Awareness: Del Norte County is home to black bears, mountain lions, and elk. Store food properly, make noise while hiking, and keep a respectful distance from all wildlife.
Lighthouse Jetty: Exercise extreme caution if visiting the Lighthouse Jetty in Crescent City. Never venture onto the jetty during storms or high surf, and check conditions before visiting.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary for Del Norte County
Day 1: Redwood Exploration
Day 2: Coastal Adventures
Day 3: Cultural Experiences
Experience the Wild Beauty of Del Norte County
Del Norte County offers a rare combination of ancient forests, pristine rivers, and dramatic coastline that few destinations can match. In this remote corner of California, you’ll find space to breathe, room to explore, and natural wonders that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re standing beneath thousand-year-old redwoods, kayaking emerald waters, or watching the sunset from a rugged beach, Del Norte County provides experiences that connect you deeply with the natural world. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to discover one of California’s most spectacular hidden gems.
Ready to Explore Del Norte County?
Start planning your adventure today:
