Fern Canyon

Explorer

Jason Hatfield

Explorer

Fern Canyon

12/17/15

This is a beautiful canyon to explore but hard to get a great photograph. Waterproof boots or sandals are a definite must with frequent stream crossings.

3.0

Becky Eldredge

Fern Canyon

10/29/15

I live less than an hour away so Fern Canyon is our go-to spot when family or friends come to visit. Access is always fun- a 6 mile drive down a dirt road through the redwoods, then opening up on the beach, a few small creek crossings (suv/truck is preferred but most cars can get through at the correct spots). It is a very short trail into the canyon from the parking lot. Please note State Parks do not allow dogs on their trails- you will get a ticket if they find you & your pup. The canyon is gorgeous and it's usually best to go in the am, before the crowds arrive. Lighting can be tricky in the canyon too so if you want good photos do not go around mid-day (shadows are too harsh). The canyon is not accessible for everyone. If you have any hip/leg injuries you may want help or to take the trail through the canyon as far as you can. There are many fallen trees you have to climb over/under to get through the trail. Lots of fun, but not so much if you have an injury. Once you get through to the end of the canyon try taking the loop trail that goes on the bluff just above the canyon. Not nearly as scenic, but there are a few views looking down into the canyon, and lots of skunk cabbage, fungi, and banana slugs! This upper trail also connects to multiple other trails that go for miles- make sure to take a map! The bluff loop trail ends at the entrance to the canyon so you are right back where you started. Walk down the creek to the field by the beach and you may see the herd of Elk there too- they frequent that area. DO NOT get too close though, they are wild animals and dangerous! *I would bring something to eat & drink (it's a long drive to the store) as well as some river shoes/waterproof shoes and an extra jacket/sweater as the fog rolls in fast.

5.0

Sarah Rohm

Fern Canyon

08/16/15

One of the more unique easy to moderate hikes I've done! I would recommend going super early in the morning as this trail gets very crowded (I went at high tourist season and got to the trailhead around 6am. By around 11am when I got back to the parking lot it was completely full). I added on the James Irvine and miners ridge trails for a longer hike into the redwoods, and walked back to the parking lot on the beach. The hike was light on elevation gain and full of giants. It's also good to note that the road to this trailhead goes along a rough dirt road and crosses several streams - I saw a few smaller cars struggling on the terrain, so if you have access to an SUV I'd use it!

4.0