Park wildlife viewing in Fortuna, California

The Headwaters Forest Reserve, located on Palco Road 1 in Fortuna, California, is a 7,472-acre park and tourist attraction established in 1999 to protect the last unprotected, intact, old-growth redwood forest ecosystem. Home to several threatened species such as coho salmon, the northern spotted owl, and the marbled murrelet, the Reserve offers visitors a chance to experience and learn about the unique redwood ecosystem and cultural history through trails like the Elk River, South Side, and Salmon Pass trails. The Headwaters Education Center, open on Sundays from June through August, provides further insight into the area's history. The Reserve, managed by the BLM in consultation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, offers a range of activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, and guided hikes along the Salmon Pass Trail. To ensure a successful visit, visitors are encouraged to make reservations for guided hikes and to be respectful of the Reserve and other visitors.

Welcome to Headwaters Reserve Salmon Creek Trail, a breathtaking natural sanctuary located in Fortuna, California. Spanning 7,472 acres, this unique park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike. Established in 1999, Headwaters Forest Reserve protects the last unprotected, intact old-growth redwood forest ecosystem, home to several threatened species such as the coho salmon, northern spotted owl, and marbled murrelet. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management in consultation with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Reserve offers a variety of trails for visitors to explore. The Elk River Trail, open year-round, is a popular destination for hiking, bicycling, dog walking, and wildlife viewing. Along this five-mile trail, interpretive signs highlight the historic value of the once-busy mill town of Falk and the grassroots activism that led to the Reserve's creation. The Headwaters Education Center, located 0.5 miles from the Elk River Trailhead, offers insights into the Reserve's natural and cultural history.