Here’s How to Explore the Mendocino Headlands Trail

If you’re traveling the rugged California coastline to Mendocino, you have to explore the Mendocino Headlands Trail. It’s only an eight-minute drive from Cottages at Little River Cove, and you can hike a four-mile nature trail. The trail is full of spectacular views, wildflowers, and fascinating wildlife. Before you lace up your hiking boots and grab those binoculars, make sure you access our complimentary Mendocino Itinerary. We created a day-to-day guide to help make your getaway as hassle-free as possible. 

Mendocino Headlands Trail

Mendocino is any wildlife lovers dream vacation – which is why Mendocino Headlands Trail is an absolute must! If you’re looking for an up-close look at California wildlife, you have to take a walk on the Mendocino Headlands Trail! It’s dog-friendly, too, so bring the fur babies!

Mendocino Wildlife

Come to Mendocino Headlands State Park in the winter, and you might spot gray whales during their migration! Whale watching is one of the best things to experience in Mendocino.

However, whales aren’t the only fascinating sea mammals of the Pacific. Along your hike, you may even encounter harbor seals. Keep an eye out for the playful pups.

Then, stop and smell the beautiful flowers. Different wildflowers bloom all around the trail, making it the perfect backdrop for your Mendocino adventure.

Historic Ford House at Mendocino Headlands Trail

Take a break from your hike, and stop at the Historic Ford House. The house serves as a museum and visitors center for the Mendocino Headlands Trail. Dive into facts about the migration of the grey whales, or learn about the history of the house, which dates back to 1854!

Jerome B. Ford built the historic house and is known as the founder of Mendocino after he was superintendent of the very first sawmill in Mendocino.

Take a guided tour around the museum or attend a wildlife lecture on the weekends to get an in-depth look at the history on the Mendocino coast.

Lunch at the Mendocino Headlands Trail

If you get hungry, we know the perfect place to stop for lunch! Have a picnic at the breathtaking Big River Beach. Seven thousand four hundred acres of wildlife corridor surrounds the beach, and it’s the largest wildlife corridor in Mendocino County.

Mendocino Music Festival

What do you get when you combine a love for music with a passion for wildlife? The Mendocino Music Festival! It takes place at Mendocino Headlands State Park in July. Enjoy wonderful music ensembles, including folk, jazz, and world music while surrounded by nature’s finest!

Relax With Cottages at Little River Cove