Scotia Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Scotia in North Coast, California? Our travel guide covers everything from must-see attractions to hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Scotia

Nestled in Humboldt County, in the North Coast region of California, Scotia is a small, picturesque town with a rich history. The town was founded in 1863 as a lumber town, and today, it stands as a tribute to the once-booming timber industry in the region. With breathtaking natural attractions, culturally significant sites, miles of hiking and biking trails, and a lively food and drink scene, Scotia makes for an ideal vacation destination.

List of Places to Visit in Scotia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Scotia is home to museums and historical sites that give visitors a glimpse into its interesting past.

  • Scotia Museum: The museum provides a fascinating look into the life of the town and its residents, with exhibits that cover everything from logging to the town’s impressive collection of vintage cars.
  • Scotia Inn: Built in 1923, the Scotia Inn reflects the town’s rich history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can visit the inn to explore its vintage architecture and enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
  • Cape Mendocino Lighthouse: Located a few miles from Scotia, the lighthouse is a must-visit attraction for maritime enthusiasts. It is still in operation and has guided countless ships across the treacherous waters off the coast.

Natural Attractions of Scotia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Scotia is surrounded by natural wonders that attract outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Eel River: Flowing through the town, the river offers a host of recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.
  • The Redwoods: The majestic redwoods, some of the tallest trees in the world, are just a short drive from the town. Here you can hike amidst the towering trees and experience the peacefulness and serenity of the ancient forest.
  • Humboldt Bay: Located just a short drive from Scotia, Humboldt Bay is a spectacular natural harbor with plenty of opportunities for kayaking, boating, and bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Scotia

Scotia has a vast network of hiking and biking trails that take you through the stunning natural landscapes.

  • Scotia Bluffs Trail: The trail takes you along the scenic coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the rocky shore.
  • Humboldt Bay Trail: The trail winds through forested areas, wetlands and marshes, and open meadows, providing plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.
  • Redwood Trail: This trail is ideal for hiking, as it takes you through the heart of the redwood forest. It’s a great way to experience the majesty of the towering trees up close.

Best Things to Do in Scotia: Activities and Tours

  • Redwood Coast Tours: Take a guided tour of the beautiful North Coast region with Redwood Coast Tours. You can choose from a variety of tour packages that cover the best the region has to offer.
  • Ride the Eel River Canyon Train: Take a ride on the historic train through the scenic Eel River Canyon, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
  • Fishing Trips: Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Scotia has plenty of options for fishing trips. You can go fishing on the Eel River, take a guided tour, or rent a boat and explore the waterways on your own.

Week-Long Itinerary for Scotia

Day Activity
1 Visit Scotia Museum and Scotia Inn
2 Hike the Redwood Trail
3 Take a guided tour with Redwood Coast Tours
4 Go fishing on the Eel River
5 Ride the Eel River Canyon Train
6 Explore Cape Mendocino Lighthouse and Humboldt Bay
7 Relax and enjoy the town’s food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Scotia

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fresh Seafood: Being located near the ocean, seafood is a specialty in Scotia. You must try the fresh catches from the Eel River, including salmon, trout, and steelhead.
  • Logger Burger: A juicy burger made with locally sourced beef, lettuce, tomato, and bacon served with fries.
  • Humboldt Fog Cheese: This locally made goat cheese is a must-try for cheese lovers.

Local Beverages

  • Eel River Brewing Company: The brewery offers a variety of award-winning ales and lagers.
  • Lost Coast Brewery: Sip on the brewery’s handcrafted beers while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding redwoods.

Where to Stay in Scotia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Scotia Inn: This historic inn features comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves delicious meals.
  • Inn at the Lost Coast: Located just a few miles from Scotia, this inn offers a variety of rooms with stunning views of the ocean.
  • Scotia Lodge: This cozy lodge offers comfortable and affordable rooms, with easy access to the area’s attractions.

What to Buy in Scotia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Redwood and Eel River Salmon T-Shirts: You can find these t-shirts in many shops in town.
  • Local crafts and art: Browse the galleries and shops for locally made jewelry, pottery, and handcrafted items.
  • Eel River Valley Honey: The local honey is delicious and makes for a great souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Scotia

Scotia is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors are encouraged to embrace the local way of life.

Best Time to Visit Scotia

The best time to visit Scotia is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is lovely throughout the year, with mild winters perfect for enjoying the natural attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Scotia

Do:

  • Respect the natural surroundings and leave them as you found them.
  • Embrace the local culture and try the local food and drink.
  • Be courteous and friendly to the locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Ignore the locals or their customs.
  • Engage in any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Scotia

Scotia is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors are advised to take standard safety precautions.

Health in Scotia

There are healthcare facilities in nearby towns, and visitors are advised to have health insurance.

Getting to Scotia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Scotia

  • Arcata-Eureka Airport: The airport is located about 30 miles from Scotia, and there are several rental car companies available.

Bus Stations Near Scotia

  • Greyhound Bus: The nearest Greyhound stop is in Fortuna, about 12 miles from Scotia.

Other Options

  • Rental Car: Visitors can rent a car from any of the major rental car companies in the area.
  • Uber/Lyft: Both Uber and Lyft operate in the area.

How to Get Around in Scotia

The town is small, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, visitors can rent bicycles or cars to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Scotia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Redwood National and State Parks: These parks are located about 80 miles from Scotia and offer some of the best hiking and camping in the country.
  • Lost Coast: This remote stretch of coastline is known for its beauty and is perfect for backpacking and camping.
  • Ferndale: The charming Victorian town of Ferndale is just a short drive from Scotia and is a great place to explore the local architecture and enjoy the quaint shops and cafes.

Conclusion

Scotia is a fantastic vacation destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and rich history of North Coast, California. With its numerous attractions, activities, and tours, a visit to Scotia is sure to be a memorable experience.