Have you heard of Scotia, California? Back in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was a major logging town. Today, visitors can learn about the logging history of Northern California. Many artifacts from the town’s logging heyday are dispersed throughout the town and on display for the public. Making this cozy town a great place for an educational day trip!
Next to the Eel River in Humboldt County, Scotia is a beautiful area of the state. The old buildings that line the main streets will make you feel as though you went back in time.
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Spend the day wandering around Scotia and seeing the sights.
The Scotia Museum houses vintage logging equipment but is now permanently closed. You can still enjoy the architecture of this stunning town, and the many pieces of logging equipment around the town on display for the public. Additionally, in front of many of the large buildings, you’ll find plaques explaining the area’s history. After wandering around the town for a while, enjoy a meal at the swanky restaurant inside the historic Scotia Lodge.
The Humboldt Redwood Company Lumber Mill is a sawmill still in operation. It’s located right near the downtown area. Today, Scotia’s lumber industry is much smaller, as well as the town’s population. The area’s population was 490 as of the 2020 census.
In addition to logging history, Scotia has a large aquarium on the south side of town. The Humboldt Redwood Company Fishery Exhibit houses Chinook salmon and steelhead trout. Take a self-guided tour from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
You’ll also want to check out the Winema Theater. Built in 1919, this rustic theater entertained the loggers of Scotia for decades.
Scotia is also home to several riverfront parks -– Fireman’s Park and Scotia Ballpark are within walking distance from downtown and right on the Eel River. Relax by the river or sit at one of the picnic tables and enjoy the scenery.
Right off the highway, you’ll see several rustic log buildings. This is the grocery store and pharmacy of Scotia. Find parking near these stores. Go inside and explore, buy a drink, and explore Scotia on foot.
Today, you don’t have to work for the sawmill to own a home in Scotia. After visiting this cozy Northern California town with so much logging history, you just might want to move there.
Have you visited Scotia? If so, we’d love to see your photos of Scotia on Facebook!
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