Del Norte County Travel Guide

Discover Del Norte County in California with this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, eat, stay, and more.


Introduction to Del Norte County

Del Norte County is a beautiful region located in North Coast, California, United States. The county features stunning natural beauty, breathtaking coastline, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, exploring historical places, or discovering local culture, Del Norte County has something to offer.

This comprehensive tour guide will take you through the must-visit places in Del Norte County, including the best outdoor activities, hiking and biking trails, tours, accommodations, and local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Del Norte County

Del Norte County is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous holiday. The following list details the best places to visit during your travel to Del Norte County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The county boasts of many cultural attractions that are a must-visit for history and art lovers. Some of the notable museums and historical places in Del Norte County include:

  • Battery Point Lighthouse: Built in 1856, the lighthouse is a great example of Victorian architecture and is located on a small island accessible by foot during low tide.
  • Del Norte County Historical Society: This museum showcases local history exhibits and artifacts, including Native American artwork, logging and mining equipment, and weapons used during the wars.
  • Enderts Beach and Crescent Beach Overlook: These beaches have a rich history of native tribes.

Natural Attractions of Del Norte County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Del Norte County has amazing natural attractions that offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. The following sites provide spectacular views and unforgettable experiences:

  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: The park has the most extensive old-growth redwoods in the world and features hiking trails, camping, picnicking, fishing, and horseback riding activities.
  • Smith River National Recreation Area: The park is home to outstanding recreational opportunities, with the cleanest and most beautiful waters for fishing, whitewater rafting, swimming, and boating.
  • Klamath River Overlook: This overlook is located on Highway 101 and is an ideal spot for whale watching, enjoying the scenic view of the ocean, and experiencing the sunset.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Del Norte County

Del Norte County has some of the best hiking and biking trails, providing an opportunity to explore the stunning landscape and wildlife. The following are some of the best options for hiking and biking in the county:

  • Damnation Creek Trail: This trail is 4.2 miles long, and it starts from a scenic overlook off Highway 101. It features an incline through a beautiful redwood forest before descending 1,000 feet to the beach. It’s a moderately strenuous trail
  • Pine Grove to Birch Grove, Coastal Trail: The trail is approximately 9 miles long and connects Pine Grove and Birch Grove Campgrounds. The trail runs parallel to the beach on old logging roads, providing several vista points.
  • High Lights Trail: This is a 6.0-mile moderately trafficked trail that is accessible from the beautiful Hiouchi Visitor Center. The path features redwood forests, freshwater streams, old-growth trees, and a picnic area.

Best Things to Do in Del Norte County: Activities and Tours

Del Norte County has something to offer for everyone, from solo travelers to families. Some of the best things to do in Del Norte County include:

  • Rafting on the Smith River: Spend a day on the Smith River and explore some of California’s most stunning wilderness. The river offers some of the most exhilarating white-water rafting, with Class III and IV rapids providing an adventurous experience.
  • California Redwoods Zip-Line and Adventure Tour: This canopy zip-line tour takes place in the beautiful redwood forests of Northern California and provides an exhilarating experience.
  • Soar the Pacific Ocean: Take an offshore adventure and spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life. The tour includes a one-hour plane tour, and guests should bring their cameras and binoculars.

Week-Long Itinerary for Del Norte County

Del Norte County is an ideal destination for a week-long vacation. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a one-week long trip to the county:

Day 1 Arrive in Del Norte County, Check-in hotel and explore the areas around the hotel.
Day 2 Visit The Battery Point Lighthouse and take a tour of the facility.
Day 3 Go hiking in the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and explore the beauty of the park.
Day 4 Take a rafting trip on the Smith River and enjoy the adventures.
Day 5 Visit Klamath River Overlook and take in the beautiful scenery.
Day 6 Go on a zip-line tour and canopy adventure in the redwood forests.
Day 7 Visit local stores and souvenir shops for a unique shopping experience.

Food and Drink Scene of Del Norte County

Del Norte County offers a mix of cuisines that will meet everyone’s needs. Here is a list of foods and local drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood: Del Norte County has fresh seafood that’s caught by local fishermen. Try Dungeness crab, smoked salmon, oysters, and fish tacos.
  • Organic produce: The county is known for organic produce, including vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
  • Grass-fed Beef: The county is known for its beef and other animal product. Try local beef dishes at some of the county’s restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Del Norte County has several local wineries and breweries that produce quality local beer, wine, ciders, and spirits. Visit their tasting rooms and enjoy a drink.

Where to Stay in Del Norte County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Del Norte County has a variety of accommodation options for travelers. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hiouchi Hamlet: This campground offers cabins, yurts, and campsites that cater to different styles of accommodation. The campground provides unique accommodation, including tree-houses.
  • Best Western Elk Valley Inn: It’s a hotel located near Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and offers easy access to the park’s hiking trails. It offers contemporary rooms and suites
  • Lighthouse Inn: This inn is near the Battery Point Lighthouse. It offers luxury accommodations and ocean views

What to Buy in Del Norte County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Del Norte County offers several unique souvenirs and products that visitors can take home. The followings are some of the best items to buy:

  • Redwood Products: The county is home to the most significant redwood forest in the world. Redwood products such as bowls, furniture, wine stoppers, and cutting boards make great souvenirs.
  • Local Wines and Beverages: The county has several wineries, breweries, and cideries that produce quality beer, wine, and ciders. Visitors can take a bottle of their favorite drink home.
  • Native American Artwork: The county has several native tribes that produce traditional artwork. Visitors can buy artwork, including jewelry, pottery, and paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Del Norte County

Del Norte County has diverse cultures and traditions. Visitors should respect the locals. They are friendly and welcoming to tourists and can provide guidance and help when needed.

Best Time to Visit Del Norte County

The best time to visit Del Norte County is during the summer. Summer provides great weather and the perfect conditions to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and rafting.

Do’s and Don’ts of Del Norte County

Do:

  • Respect the local environment, including the wildlife.
  • Dress for the weather and wear appropriate outdoor gear and clothing.
  • Tip waitstaff and service providers according to the local custom.

Don’t:

  • Litter, as it’s harmful to the environment and the wildlife.
  • Ignore road-safety signs and warnings.
  • Engage in dangerous activities without proper safety precautions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Del Norte County

Del Norte County is generally safe. Visitors should take precautions like locking their vehicles and personal items and be aware of their surroundings.

Health in Del Norte County

Visitors should take precautions regarding their health in the county. They should stay hydrated, safe from mosquitoes, and follow CDC guidelines.

Getting to Del Norte County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Del Norte County can travel by car, bus, or plane. The following transportation options are available:

Airports Near Del Norte County

California Redwood Coast - Humboldt County Airport (ACV), located in McKinleyville, is the nearest airport to Del Norte County. It’s approximately 70 miles from Del Norte County.

Bus Stations Near Del Norte County

Greyhound bus lines have a station in nearby Crescent City, which makes it easy for visitors to travel to the county.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel by car through State Route 101 or Interstate 5, depending on the origin.

How to Get Around in Del Norte County

Visitors can use rental cars, public transportation, and taxis to get around Del Norte County.

Where to Go Next from Del Norte County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Del Norte County is an excellent base for visiting nearby attractions. The followings are some of the nearby destinations visitors may be interested in:

  • Humboldt Redwoods State Park: It’s a 90-minute drive south of Del Norte County and has the largest remaining redwood forest in the world.
  • Crescent City: It’s a nearby city that offers ocean views, freshwater lagoons and is home to Elk Valley Casino.

Conclusion

Del Norte County is a picturesque and unique destination that provides visitors with a mix of outdoor activities, rich culture, and local cuisine. By visiting this county, you get a chance to explore the natural beauty of Northern California. Take your time and enjoy the experience.



    Crescent City
    Klamath