What’s your personal favorite spot to enjoy Northern California’s iconic redwood scenery? We’re pretty lucky to have so many parks and preserves that are dedicated to preserving these beautiful old-growth trees, especially Montgomery Woods State Reserve near Ukiah. This remote redwoods park boasts an idyllic forest landscape tucked far away from the crowds of more popular destinations. It’s the perfect spot to decompress and experience the majestic beauty of the redwoods!
Consisting of over 1,300 acres, Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve is an idyllic park that's home to some of Northern California's most majestic groves of Coast Redwoods.
You'll find this stunning natural reserve located about 13-miles west of Ukiah. Tucked away in a remote area and unusually far from the coast, it's easy to pass by Montgomery Woods for a more accessible, well-known destination. However, those who make the trip out here are well-rewarded for their efforts.
At one time, Montgomery Woods was believed to be home to the world's tallest tree, named the Mendocino Tree. This is no longer the case, as numerous taller trees were later discovered in Humboldt Redwoods State Park and Redwood National Park. Still, the redwoods here have plenty to brag about.
The park is home to just one 3-mile hiking trail that takes you past the woods' best scenery. Stretching along Montgomery Creek, hikers can enjoy views of five virgin redwood groves that have never been logged. With less than 300-feet in elevation gain, the trail makes for an especially serene walk in the woods.
Montgomery Woods is just one of 31 redwood parks across Northern California, but it's definitely one of the most unique. Whereas most other redwood groves are located on alluvial plains, Montgomery boasts a rarer riparian meadow habitat.
Spring is always an excellent time to visit this beautiful preserve, since that's when the foliage is lushest. However, you can never go wrong with a visit to this tranquil redwood oasis—no matter what time of year it is.
There's no entrance fee to visit Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve. To find it, take Orr Springs Road west from Ukiah and take it all the way past Orr's Hot springs. The park is just past the hot springs and boasts a small parking lot.
