It is likely that you will never experience anything else quite like the Jug Handle State Natural Reserve’s Ecological Staircase. The “staircase” is a land formation that stretches for 2.5 miles over five wave-cut terraces formed by glacier, sea and tectonic activity. Starting in the inter-tidal zone, it ascends through a series of areas that include prairie, pine forest and even a unique pygmy forest with knee-high trees. The nonprofit Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center acts as a private gateway to the area, and offers environmental education programs that are packed with fun and entertaining activities. The Farm also offers hostel-style accommodations in an 1870s-era Victorian farmhouse as well as cabins and camping. An educational brochure is available to explain the changing environments as you travel the 5-mile trail up the slope.

WHERE: In Caspar, located halfway between Fort Bragg and Mendocino on Hwy 1. MORE INFO: 707-937-5804 | Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center, 707-964-4630