If you’ve ever wanted to walk part of the California Coastal Trail, the Peter Douglas Trail is a perfect sampling of everything it has to offer. This 2.3-mile extension on the southern end of the Lost Coast Trail is rugged, wild, and blends together forest and ocean topography. Ultimately, this portion of the trail connects to the Lost Coast Trail, which is mainly located in Humboldt County. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for this outing, which is only accessible from June-October. Be aware that there is no cell reception in the area, so any maps or information should be downloaded before you get underway. Expansive views of the Mendocino coast, old-growth redwoods magically sculpted into candelabras, wildflower meadows, and 300 hand-built steps are only a few of the featured highlights of the trail. Roosevelt Elk and other wildlife are often seen near Usal Beach.

Shady Dell was part of a privately-owned property until 2011, and has not been accessible to the public for over a century. Restoration has healed and continues to bring back streams, trees, meadows, salmon, and forests damaged by logging and building roads.

WHERE: Follow Usal Road (narrow and rough). Call the Mendocino DOT at 707-463-4363 to verify road conditions beforehand.