Summer Outdoor Adventures in Mendocino County
Where to Go to Play Outside
Things change! Check websites for current info before you depart.
Go Wild at B. Bryan Preserve
Run away to Africa on the Mendocino coast with a tour of B. Bryan Preserve in Point Arena. You can hop in the vintage Land Rovers for a 3:30pm guided tour or enjoy a self-guided tour in your own vehicle every morning at 10:00am. B. Bryan Preserve is home to three kinds of zebra, antelope, and giraffe—all endangered. Both tours end with feeding the majestic giraffe!
Stroll Among the Flowers at the Botanical Gardens
The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens boasts 47 acres and 4 miles of trails, displaying and conserving plants in harmony with the Northern California coastal ecosystems and preserving public access to the coast. Their collections span camellias, conifers, succulents, magnolias, and so much more, including over 124 species of rhododendron.
Float Up Big River
Drink in the gorgeous views and listen to the birdsong perched atop your own redwood outrigger canoe! Catch-a-Canoe and Bicycles Too! rents these un-tippable vessels to take you up Big River into miles of undeveloped forestland. You’ll spot otter, osprey, seals, and geese, among other wildlife. Depending on the tide, it’s an easy glide along the current or a vigorous upper body workout against it.
Explore the Wild Gardens
at the Grace Hudson Museum
The beautiful Wild Gardens at Ukiah’s Grace Hudson Museum is an outdoor educational environment full of native Northern California plants and habitats. You’ll learn about regional ecosystems, environmental sustainability, and the cultural traditions and land management practices of the Pomo Indians, the original inhabitants of the region.
Ride the Rails in Fort Bragg
Climb aboard the Skunk Train’s two-person rail bikes for an electric-powered adventure into the redwoods. The two hour journey includes a stop at Glen Blair Junction for a picnic or mini-hike. Bring water and layer up for this exciting open-air excursion along the rails.
Hike, Bike, and Beach
Below are some more excellent resources for finding where to play outside this summer.
Public Beaches and State Parks: mendoparks.org
Coastal Hiking Trails: mendocinolandtrust.org/trails
Mendocino Bike Rentals: catchacanoe.com
Fort Bragg Bike Rentals: emeralddolphin.com/bike-rentals.html
Ukiah Area Options: visitukiah.com/outdoor-recreation
County-wide Activities: visitmendocino.com
