Best hiking and nature spots in Ukiah, California

Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve is a park and tourist attraction located at 15825 Orr Springs Road in Ukiah, California, United States. This reserve offers visitors the chance to explore the beauty and tranquility of coast redwoods, with a 367.5-foot redwood tree that was once thought to be the tallest in the world. The reserve, which was started with a donation by Robert Orr in 1945, now spans 2,743 acres and is known for its majestic giants. Visitors can hike the two-mile-long Montgomery Trail, which takes about an hour or two to complete and offers stunning views of the lush fern forests and redwood groves. Picnic sites are available near the parking area and along the trail, providing a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Lake Mendocino Recreational Area is a stunning park located at 5301 Lake Ridge Road in Ukiah, California, United States. Nestled in the heart of wine country and near the entrance to the Redwoods, this park is just a two-hour drive north of the Bay area in central Mendocino County. The beautiful lake, created by a dam in 1958, offers a plethora of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. With over 300 campsites, including boat-in camping options, and 15 miles of hiking and biking trails, there is no shortage of ways to explore the natural beauty of Lake Mendocino. The park also features a 700-acre wilderness area where native wildlife can be spotted, as well as five large day-use areas with covered picnic shelters and barbeques.