Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve
State Park · Ukiah, California
Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve is a grove of old-growth coast redwoods in the hills of Mendocino County, reached from Ukiah by the narrow, winding Orr Springs Road. It is far inland from the fog belt, so the heat of the interior hills meets a deep, cool, shaded valley floor under very tall trees, with a creek and thick ferns below. It is a day-use, undeveloped reserve - confirm facilities, which are minimal or absent - and entry is reported to be free, a steep first stretch of dirt trail, and a flat grove beyond it. The grove once held the record for the tallest tree measured in the world. Dogs are not allowed. There is no cell signal for a long way, poison oak and ticks grow at the edges, and winter storms can damage the road. It suits quiet walkers, photographers and anyone who wants big trees without crowds. It is small, remote and slow to reach, so it is a poor pick for visitors short on time or uneasy on mountain roads.
Comptche Ukiah Rd, Ukiah, California, 95482, United States
The reserve is a day-use area, open from around sunrise to sunset, with no staffed entrance and no visitor centre that we know of - confirm with California State Parks before you drive. Entry is reported as free, but a pay station or small fee could be introduced, so check. The access road is narrow and winding, and winter storms, slides and fallen trees can close it or slow it badly, while dry summer weather can bring fire restrictions and smoke closures. There is no camping and no drinking water reported, and no cell service, so arrive with daylight left to drive back. Check the State Parks page and county road notices on the day you go.
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