For something completely different, Humboldt County awaits – tucked in the northwest corner of California, about 50 miles from the Oregon border. With its magical mix of giant 2,000-year-old Redwoods, Bigfoot lore, craggy coastline, Victorian architecture, cannabis cultivation and famed dairy products, among other experiences, it’s the perfect place to satisfy one’s sense of adventure. Limited air service to Arcata-Eureka Airport and its remote, wilderness locale, make it adventurous just to get there…but its sparse population away from the tourist throngs is part of Humboldt’s draw. Take the scenic drive up (about five hours from San Francisco or Sacramento) because you’ll need a car to tour the region. Be sure to motor (and hike) through the famed 31-mile Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt Redwoods State Park on your way to Eureka or Arcata, neighboring options for your base of operations during your stay. Most of the locals live along the coast in small towns from Trinidad to Ferndale (40 miles), with each hamlet offering a variety of things to see and do, including boat tours, beaches, summer festivals and great boutique shopping. Ferndale is an enchanting Victorian village with dozens of well-preserved homes and store fronts and is also renowned for its exceptional dairy farms. In the summer, the weather can vary wildly between the cool, sometimes foggy coast and the warmer inland region of the county.
Destinations
Travel Picks
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BIGFOOT COLLECTION AT WILLOW CREEK
See where it all began and check it off your bucket list
Entertainment
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CARTER HOUSE INNS
Charming, top-rated accommodations in Old Town, Eureka.
Accommodations
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REDWOOD SKYWALK AT SEQUOIA PARK ZOO
Get a bird’s eye view high above the majestic forest floor. $TBD
Entertainment
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THE FRONT PORCH INN
Arcata’s “super hip,” one-of-a-kind hidden bath and oasis.
Accommodations
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THE LARRUPIN’ CAFE
A cozy, gourmet experience off the beaten path in Trinidad.
Dining
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LOS BAGELS BAKERY AND CAFE
Local institution with Jewish and Mexican influences
Dining
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