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Did you know that Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve contains some of the world’s last remaining old-growth coast redwood trees, with one specimen measuring over 110 meters (361 feet) tall – making it among the tallest trees on Earth? This hidden gem in Mendocino County offers visitors a chance to walk among ancient giants in a pristine forest setting that feels worlds away from civilization.
Sunlight filters through ancient redwoods in Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve lies 32 miles southeast of Mendocino or 13 miles northwest of Ukiah on the winding Orr Springs Road. The reserve is somewhat remote, adding to its pristine charm but requiring some planning to reach.
Closest Airports
- Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS) – 95 km (59 miles)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – 240 km (149 miles)
- Oakland International Airport (OAK) – 225 km (140 miles)
- Sacramento International Airport (SMF) – 210 km (130 miles)
The scenic drive to Montgomery Woods through redwood country
From Ukiah, follow North State Street to the west, which becomes Orr Springs Road. Continue for about 13 miles past Orr’s Mineral Hot Springs resort. From Mendocino, take Comptche-Ukiah Road east for approximately 15 miles to reach the reserve. The entrance has a small parking area with informational signs and restroom facilities.
Best Time to Visit Montgomery Woods
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve is open year-round, but each season offers a different experience. The reserve’s climate can be changeable, so it’s wise to check conditions before your visit.
Recommended Seasons
- Spring (April-May): Wildflowers bloom, creeks flow vigorously, and the forest feels especially lush after winter rains.
- Summer (June-August): Warm temperatures (high 20s°C/80s°F) and dry conditions make for comfortable hiking, though weekends can be busier.
- Fall (September-October): Pleasant temperatures and fewer visitors create a more serene experience.
Seasons to Avoid
- Winter (November-March): Heavy rains can make trails muddy or even flooded. The creek crossing on the main trail may become impassable after storms.
Misty mornings create magical conditions in the redwood grove
Weather Tip: Pack layers regardless of when you visit. Even on warm summer days, the dense canopy keeps the forest floor cool and shaded. Morning fog is common year-round, creating beautiful light conditions for photography.
Getting Around Locally
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve is a relatively small park centered around a 2-mile loop trail. Getting around within the reserve is straightforward, but reaching nearby attractions requires transportation planning.
Within the Reserve
- The main Montgomery Trail is a 2-mile loop that takes 1-2 hours to complete
- The trail begins with a steep 0.3-mile section (approximately 200-foot elevation gain)
- Once you reach the grove floor, the trail becomes relatively flat as it loops through several magnificent redwood groves
- No bicycles or motorized vehicles are permitted on trails
Wooden footbridges help visitors navigate the forest floor
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Nearby Attractions
To explore the wider Mendocino County area, a personal vehicle is essential. Some noteworthy destinations within driving distance include:
Orr Hot Springs
Just 3 km (2 miles) from Montgomery Woods, this historic mineral springs resort offers day use and overnight accommodations.
Mendocino Village
This charming coastal town is about 48 km (30 miles) west, offering galleries, restaurants, and dramatic ocean views.
Anderson Valley
Known for its wineries and breweries, this scenic valley is approximately 40 km (25 miles) south of the reserve.
Where to Stay
While camping is not permitted within Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve itself, several accommodation options are available in the surrounding area, ranging from rustic to luxurious.
Nearby Accommodations
- Orr Hot Springs Resort: Located just 3 km (2 miles) from the reserve, offering cabins, yurts, and communal lodging with natural hot springs.
- Ukiah Hotels: The city of Ukiah (21 km/13 miles away) offers various hotels and motels for different budgets.
- Mendocino Coast: For those wanting ocean views, the coastal towns of Mendocino and Fort Bragg (48-56 km/30-35 miles away) provide numerous bed and breakfasts and hotels.
- Vacation Rentals: Private cabins and homes are available throughout the region, many offering secluded forest settings.
Cozy forest accommodations can be found near the reserve
Dining & Local Cuisine
There are no food services within Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve, so visitors should plan accordingly. The nearest dining options are in Ukiah and along the Mendocino coast.
Picnicking in the Reserve
Montgomery Woods has several picnic tables near the parking area and along the trail. Bringing your own food is recommended for a day visit. Remember to pack out all trash as there are limited waste facilities.
Nearby Dining Options
- Orr Hot Springs: Offers a communal kitchen for guests but no restaurant service.
- Ukiah: Features a variety of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores for supplies.
- Boonville: This Anderson Valley town (40 km/25 miles south) has several farm-to-table restaurants and a brewery.
- Mendocino: Known for fine dining featuring local seafood and produce.
Picnic areas provide peaceful spots to enjoy a meal in the forest
Local Tip: The Anderson Valley is known for its pinot noir wines and apple cider. Consider picking up local specialties before your visit to enjoy at the reserve’s picnic areas.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve centers around its magnificent old-growth redwood groves, with the main attraction being the 2-mile loop trail that takes visitors through several impressive stands of ancient trees.
Main Attractions
- The Montgomery Trail: This 2-mile loop showcases five distinct old-growth groves connected by a relatively flat path along Montgomery Creek.
- Kellieowen Grove: Home to some of the tallest trees in the reserve, including specimens over 110 meters (361 feet) tall.
- Montgomery Creek: A beautiful stream that flows through the heart of the reserve, creating a lush riparian habitat.
- Ancient Redwoods: Trees estimated to be 500-1,000 years old, with massive trunks and soaring canopies.
The Montgomery Trail offers an immersive redwood forest experience
Suggested Itineraries
If You Have One Hour
Hike one-third mile (on a steep incline) on the Montgomery Trail to reach the majestic Kellieowen Grove. Take time to appreciate the massive redwoods and enjoy a quick picnic beside Montgomery Creek before returning.
If You Have Half a Day
Complete the entire two-mile Montgomery Trail loop to experience all five groves of ancient redwoods. Take time to sit quietly and observe the forest ecosystem, including birds, small mammals, and the diverse plant life that thrives in this special environment.
Morning light creates magical conditions as sunbeams pierce the redwood canopy
Cultural Significance & History
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve holds both cultural and ecological significance, representing one of the few remaining old-growth redwood forests in a region once dominated by these ancient trees.
Indigenous Heritage
The reserve lies within the traditional territory of the Northern Pomo people, who maintained a deep connection with the redwood forests for thousands of years. These magnificent trees held spiritual significance and provided materials for various aspects of daily life.
Conservation History
The reserve began with a nine-acre donation by Robert Orr in 1945. Since then, Save the Redwoods League has worked to expand the protected area to its current 2,743 acres through purchases and donations. In 2022, the Montgomery Woods Initiative began further expanding protections to surrounding forests.
Ancient redwoods bear the marks of centuries of forest history
The Tallest Trees
Between 1996 and 2000, the “Mendocino Tree” in Montgomery Woods was considered the tallest tree in the world, measuring nearly 112 meters (367.5 feet). While taller trees have since been discovered in Humboldt Redwoods State Park and Redwood National Park, Montgomery Woods remains home to numerous trees exceeding 110 meters (361 feet) in height.
Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Beyond the majestic redwoods, Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve offers visitors a chance to experience a diverse ecosystem with abundant wildlife and plant species.
Flora & Fauna
- Plants: In addition to coast redwoods, you’ll find Douglas fir, tanoak, madrone, and a lush understory of ferns, redwood sorrel, and trillium.
- Birds: Look for Steller’s jays, varied thrushes, Pacific wrens, and the elusive marbled murrelet that nests in old-growth canopies.
- Mammals: Black-tailed deer, gray squirrels, chipmunks, and occasionally black bears inhabit the forest.
- Aquatic Life: Montgomery Creek supports steelhead trout and is part of the Big River watershed.
The lush understory creates a vibrant ecosystem beneath the redwood canopy
Outdoor Activities
- Photography: The reserve offers exceptional opportunities for nature photography, especially in morning light when fog and sunbeams create magical conditions.
- Bird Watching: Bring binoculars to spot the diverse bird species that inhabit different layers of the forest.
- Nature Observation: Sitting quietly on one of the benches along the trail provides opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Geocaching: Several approved geocaches are hidden within the reserve for those who enjoy this high-tech treasure hunting activity.
Montgomery Creek creates a peaceful soundtrack as it flows through the ancient forest
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Visiting Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve responsibly ensures both your safety and the preservation of this precious ecosystem for future generations.
Safety Tips
- Stay on designated trails to avoid getting lost and to protect sensitive vegetation.
- Wear sturdy footwear with good traction, as trails can be steep and sometimes muddy.
- Bring water, as there are no drinking fountains in the reserve.
- Check for ticks after your visit, especially if you venture off-trail.
- Be aware that cell phone service is extremely limited or non-existent in the reserve.
Park Etiquette
- Pack out all trash – there are limited waste facilities.
- Keep noise levels down to respect wildlife and other visitors.
- Dogs are not permitted on trails or in the reserve (service animals excepted).
- Do not climb on fallen trees or damage vegetation.
- Drones are not allowed in the reserve.
Important: Never attempt to carve into or damage redwood trees. These ancient organisms are irreplaceable, and damaging them is both illegal and ecologically harmful. Take only photographs and leave only footprints.
Visitor Comments About Montgomery Woods
“I’ve visited redwood forests throughout California, but Montgomery Woods offers something special – a sense of discovery and solitude you won’t find at more popular parks. The loop trail is manageable for most fitness levels once you conquer the initial climb, and the reward of standing among these ancient giants is well worth the effort.”
S.J., Bhopal
“We almost missed this hidden gem during our California road trip. The drive is winding but beautiful, and once you arrive, it feels like stepping into another world. The massive redwoods create a cathedral-like atmosphere, and we had many sections of trail completely to ourselves even on a weekend.”
P.G., Burlington
“Montgomery Woods provided the highlight of our family vacation. My children were awestruck by the scale of these trees, and the relatively short loop trail was perfect for our group with varied hiking abilities. Bring a picnic and plan to spend at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate this magical place.”
G.N., Peoria
Practical Travel Tips
Before You Go
- The reserve is open for day use only – no camping is permitted.
- There is no entrance fee to visit Montgomery Woods.
- Restrooms are available at the parking area but are basic facilities.
- Download maps and information before your visit, as cell service is unreliable.
- Fill your gas tank before heading to the reserve, as there are no nearby service stations.
What to Bring
- Layered clothing – temperatures under the canopy can be significantly cooler
- Water and snacks/picnic supplies
- Insect repellent (especially in summer)
- Camera with extra batteries
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- A printed map of the trail system
Visitors from around the world come to experience the majesty of Montgomery Woods
Accessibility Note: The main trail begins with a steep section that may be challenging for those with mobility issues. However, the parking area, restrooms, and picnic tables are accessible, and interpretive panels provide information about the reserve for those unable to hike the trail.
Embrace the Ancient Magic of the Redwoods
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve offers a rare opportunity to connect with some of the oldest and tallest living organisms on our planet. Unlike more developed redwood parks, its relative remoteness provides a more intimate and contemplative experience among these ancient giants. Whether you’re making a dedicated trip or including it as part of a larger Mendocino County exploration, the time spent walking among these towering sentinels of time will leave you with memories—and perhaps a renewed perspective—that will last a lifetime.
