Humboldt County: It’s All Off The Beaten Path

As you head north on Highway 101, it may seem that civilization has been left behind and all that remains is wilderness. It seems there is wild country as far as the eye can see. “What if Northern California really does end at Sacramento?” you ponder. But a single serendipitous turn off the highway at any time will lead you to discoveries galore.

Oh, how Humboldt County has deceived you! Humboldt County is teeming with industry, shopping, dining and tourist attractions. There are quaint villages to shop in, museums that educate on everything from logging to architecture, wildlife you can pet in a zoo and some right out in the open, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Ocean kayaking, canyon hiking and river rafting are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to outdoor fun in Humboldt County.

Humboldt County is a collection diverse landscapes. Highway 101 slices through Humboldt with the rugged Pacific coast on your left and the mountainous forests on your right. The further north you travel, the closer the highway brings you to the Pacific Ocean, but make no mistake it is always there.

This guide will take you from city to city along Highway 101 and help you explore the hidden treasures just a mile or so off the highway. Many of the towns are only a few miles long; some are larger than even the locals think!

We start our journey at Garberville, the southern most city in Humboldt County, and take a side trip over to Shelter Cove to see the Lost Coast. Once we are back on the highway heading north there are a few stops that are well worth the time. As we enter the realm of Northern Humboldt, the ocean is closer and the cities are larger. Scotia, Fortuna, Ferndale and Loleta are all worthy destinations on your trip north. Once you hit Eureka you have reached the metropolis of this wild county, but there is still much more to see. Arcata, Blue Lake, Trinidad, Orick and the wild expanse to the east are waiting to be enjoyed.

So prepare to experience Humboldt County and uncover all its wonderful secrets.