Spring is officially in full force and it’s the perfect time to begin the adventures you’ve been anxiously waiting for all winter. There’s so much natural beauty in Northern California that figuring out where to even begin is an overwhelming task. We suggest taking it nice and easy with a visit to this boardwalk hiking trail in MacKerricher State Park. This easy trail makes taking in the stunning coastal beauty accessible to everyone. Oh, and the payoff view is simply breathtaking! You’ll definitely want to put this trail on your to-do list.
MacKerricher State Park is an underrated gem hiding out three miles north of Fort Bragg. It's one of the best places to take in Northern California's magnificent coastline, and it contains a boardwalk hiking trail that is accessible to everyone.
The boardwalk leads to Laguna Point Seal Watching Station, and leads you through some stunning scenery along the way. The trail is a quick adventure through the park at just 0.6-miles round trip.
The boardwalk definitely lets you get your fill of pristine ocean views. The hike is full of picturesque scenes that seem almost too beautiful to be real.
The hike doesn't take very long, but you'll definitely want to take your time. The atmosphere is so serene, with only the sound of chirping birds and water crashing against the rocks in the distance. This is bound to become your new "happy place".
As you approach the seal watching station, you'll come across two overlooks which provide information about the region's flora and fauna. There's even a little tide pool area where steps provide access down to the coast.
At last, you'll arrive at the overlook which provides panoramic views of the vast ocean before you. Spring or fall is an excellent time to view grey and humpback whales as they migrate across this area.
To get to the trailhead, travel three miles north of Fort Bragg to reach MacKerricher State Park. You'll pass the entrance station and continue on to Mill Creek Road on your left. You'll find the trailhead to Laguna Point at the end of the road.