Fern Canyon is one of the most liked and the most hiked trails in all of California. Even the makers of Jurassic Park, couldn’t resist getting shots at this place. Located in Prairie Creek Redwood State Park, Fern Canyon Trail is one of the amazing hiking spots in California. Hiking side by side on the river creek, hopping over fallen trees and crossing the bridges of tree branches is just wow. The multi-level hiking trails of Fern Canyon attract hikers of every level, be they a beginner or a pro.
In This post
In this post, we will explore the hiking realm of Fern Canyon and its features that make it one of the most hiked trails in all of California. We will also discuss the process of getting a permit for Fern Canyon, its charges, parking areas and fees and more. There might be tons of articles dealing with these topics. That is why, this post comes with additional inputs like what if you can’t get the permit? The best season to visit Fern Canyon and some of the key points you must know before you visit Fern Canyon.
The most important aspect that you will rarely find is the fact that you might encounter an Elk. In this post, we have covered how you can avoid having an encounter in the first place and what to do if you do by any chance. Let’s start with an amazing but brief introduction to the beautiful trails of Fern Canyon.
It is nothing less than magical. Yes, I am talking about hiking on the trailheads at Fern Canyon. Wandering side by side the River Creek through Fern Canyon trail. Assuming some hiding Dinasauras behind the trees is not only amazing but sensual and breathtaking.
The makers of “Jurassic Park: The Lost World” stated it was a wonder of the world. The parking area gets filled till 10 am, especially on weekends.
Walking on the trails leading towards the trailheads of Canyon is amazing. Its beauty just blows the mind and is incredibly astounding. Fern Canyon is among one of the 10 most amazing hiking trails in northern California.
Related articles:
- Hiking and Camping at Burney Falls in California
- 10 Most Amazing Hiking Trails in Northern California
- 6 Most Adventurous Hiking Trails in California
- Explore 6 Best Places in California With Hiking Trails for Beginners and Pros
How to get to Fern Canyon Trailhead for Hiking
Fern Canyon is situated in the Prairie Creek Redwood State Park inside the Redwood National Park. To reach the Fern Canyon Trailhead, you need to take the Davison Road from Highway 101.
Taking the Davison Road from Highway 101 you can get to both Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon Trailhead.
12 Best Places to Visit in California
It is advised to go by a high-clearance vehicle so that you can cross the river crossing easily. There are two river crossings after the Gold Bluffs Beach which you need to cross.
If you are going with a low-clearance vehicle or a large RV or trailer then you should leave your vehicle at the day-use area near Gold Bluff Beach.
You can hike the rest 2 miles to the Fern Canyon either on the beach or the road. Make sure to check the current condition of the river crossing before you visit here.
Delve into this captivating destination, conveniently located a little over 6 hours north of San Francisco, only 3.5 hours west of Redding, and just an hour south of Crescent City.
How to get a hiking permit for Fern Canyon
Discover the City of Angels: Best Places to Visit in Los Angeles, California
Permit/Reservation is required from 15th May to 15th September. It is not required between the 16th of September and to 14th of May. Reservation or a permit is required in order to explore the Gold Bluffs Beach Day Use Area and the Fern Canyon.
Although a permit is not required between the 16th of September and the 14th of May the fees are applicable.
What if no permits are available?
Don’t worry if the reservations are full and no permits are available. There is one more way to hike to the Fern Canyons Trailhead. Here is how.
You can actually take an all-day hike to Fern Canyon. Leave your vehicle near the visitors centre at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Now get ready for a 4 to 8-hour hike into the Fern Canyon via the James Irvine Trail.
The authorities issue a total of 90 permits a day of which 35 are for 8 am to 12 pm and 35 for 1 pm to sunset. There are 20 extra permits for the whole day. Apart from that there are 20 permits for the Gold Bluffs Beach day-use area as well.
Plan Your Visit to Fern Canyon: Things to Know Before You Go
Hiking Fern Canyon is definitely an unimaginable experience. It somehow reminds you of the breathtaking moments from the movie Jurassic Park the Lost World.
Don’t worry, you won’t face any of the creatures from that movie now just some frogs. You may get to see an Elk if you are lucky if I may say. Although the hike is going to be amazing you need to know a few things before you visit the Fern Canyon.
Expect to get your feet wet
Even in the months of summer, there will be river crossings or water/mud on the trail. Most probably you would cross river creek during the hike. So expect to get your feet wet.
There are small falls in the middle as well. Therefore, it is advised to bring waterproof shoes with you. You can also get neoprene socks if you choose to wear shoes. Otherwise wearing a sandal or a slipper is a cheaper alternative.
Be Ready for hopping and stretching
Wood logs are installed in the rainy season to continue on the trail. So, you will often need to hop over or stretch your legs to make balance.
What to do if you counter an Elk
- First of all, carry binoculars or telephoto lenses to detect any Elk in the area to maintain a safe distance.
- The Safe distance prescribed in general is 30-40 meters that more than 100 feet.
- If you are facing it then back off slowly without disturbing it.
- In case you are about to get hit then lie down and circle up and cover your head and neck. Wait until it leaves and then leave the place after observing the area.
Takeaways
Unleash your sense of wonder in Fern Canyon, one of California’s most renowned hiking trails. Nestled within Prairie Creek Redwood State Park, this enchanting destination captivates with its breathtaking beauty and allure. Follow the trail alongside the river creek, crossing rustic bridges and marvelling at the towering redwood trees. Embark on an unforgettable journey through Fern Canyon and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring splendour of nature.
Conclusion
Located in the Prairie Creek Redwood State Park, the Fern Canyon trail is a must to explore in California. The best thing about Fern Canyon is that it offers hiking trails which is neither too short nor too exhausting. These are naturally carved, splendidly beautiful, scenic, serene and adventurous trails. In the ocean of posts, this one effectively conveys the ground information about exploring and hiking Fernn Canyon.
Beautifully covering the captivating attractions of Fern Canyon, this post features every basic and advanced information which you need to hike to Fern Canyon. It covers the process of getting the permit, information regarding parking areas, how to reach Fern Canyon and so on. It even provides details on what to do if you don’t have the permit. Things to know before you go to Fern Canyon are really helpful as many of them are recommended by the visitors themselves. In the end, it leaves you with a bucket of some easy-to-memorise key points which you can carry along.
If you really found this post helpful, please write your thoughts in the comment section and share it with the people you know. Ask anything related to travelling and do not forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. Will see you in the next post, till then, keep travelling, and stay safe.
FAQs About Fern Canyon: Registration, Pets, Reception, and More
Q1. What is the registration fee for Fern Canyon/Gold Bluffs Beach?
Ans: The online registration is free but you need to pay 12$ at Gold Bluffs Beach Kiosk using Cash or Check. Note: Cards are not accepted. You can also use passes like (if have any): America the Beautiful Passes, California State Park Annual Pass or Poppy Pass, or a current park campground reservation. Remember that visitors with a current Gold Bluffs Beach reservation do not need to apply for any additional permit.
Q2. Are pets allowed inside the Fern Canyon Trail?
Ans: No, pets are only allowed at the Gold Bluffs Beach day use area that too with certain conditions. Confirm it here at nps.gov.
Q3. Will I be able to make/receive calls while hiking the Fern Canyon Trail?
Ans: Fern Canyon Trail falls in the obscure area of the park hence expect low cellphone reception.
Q4. Will I get drinking water in the middle of the trail?
Ans: There is no water or food outlet in the middle of the trail. The Trailhead only has picnic tables, beach access, trash cans and pit toilets. Visitors are requested to carry water bottles and food with them.
