Here in Northern California, we believe spending one-on-one time with nature is not only a preference but an absolute necessity. After all, nature’s bounty can be found pretty much everywhere you turn in the beautiful Golden State. If you have yet to spend some time in MacKerricher State Park near Fort Bragg, consider this a sign. Located along the rocky coastline, you could easily lose yourself for hours while exploring the park’s stunning boardwalk trail.
MacKerricher State Park is a nature lover's oasis located just three miles north of Fort Bragg. Located right along the rugged Mendocino coastline, you could easily spend the entire day exploring this beautiful slice of the North Coast.
There are a number of trails at MacKerricher State Park for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. However, the Laguna Point Boardwalk makes for an especially enjoyable and easygoing adventure.
The boardwalk trail is short at only 0.6-miles long, but you'll find yourself taking your time to soak up the incredible scenery. The views are simply mesmerizing from start to finish, and you definitely don't want to rush through it!
With only about 24-feet in elevation gain, this is more of a relaxing stroll than a hike. Along the way, you'll pass a couple of informative overlooks where you can learn more about the area, including its natural and cultural history.
At the end of the trail is the Laguna Point Seal Watching Station. This overlook highlights the area's birds and aquatic mammals, like gray and humpback whales. If you visit during the spring or fall, you may just look up at the ocean and see one of these massive beauties swimming by.
The boardwalk was constructed into a loop that you can follow straight back to the parking lot. As the trail extends back to the parking lot and away from the ocean, you'll be treated to an equally beautiful and dramatic landscape of grasslands scenery.
If you've been on the hunt for an adventure that's equal parts accessible AND breathtaking, look no further than the boardwalk trail at MacKerricher State Park. Explore this coastal trail for yourself and check out the park's website for more information.
Have you visited MacKerricher State Park and explored the park’s boardwalk trail? Tell us about your personal experiences in the comments below! And if you know of any other beautiful NorCal parks that deserve to be highlighted, please fill out a nomination form and let us know!
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