The Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve is just off Orr Springs Road in Mendocino County. It is nestled in a cool creek canyon near Ukiah. This reserve offers a rare sanctuary of old-growth coast redwoods in Northern California. These towering giants, hidden in a serene valley, make this park a captivating escape for nature lovers seeking tranquility and grandeur.
What Makes Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve Unique
This 1,323-acre reserve protects an upland riparian redwood ecosystem—uncommon compared to more accessible alluvial groves. Among its ancient redwoods stands a tree once dubbed the world’s tallest. The forest’s quiet solitude, fern-draped canyon floors, and bubbling stream reflect centuries of undisturbed ecological richness.
Top Activities & Amenities
🥾 Hiking Trails
The 2-mile Montgomery Trail—looping through five redwood groves—begins with a steep 0.3-mile climb, then mellows into creekside boardwalks and fern-filled flats. Expect roughly 200 ft elevation change and muddy patches in wet seasons.
🧺 Picnic & Restroom Facilities
Shaded picnic tables and restrooms sit at the trailhead, alongside interpretive panels introducing the grove’s ecology. The rest area offers a peaceful setting beside Montgomery Creek.
🦅 Interpretive Exhibits & Wildlife Viewing
Panel signs detail redwood ecology, Pomo tribal history, and geology. Keep your eyes peeled for foothill yellow-legged frogs, newts, owls and songbirds inhabiting this lush, moist canyon environment.
📷 Photography
The reserve’s ancient redwoods, moss-draped ferns, and creek under forest canopy provide stunning photographic backdrops—especially in low light and misty conditions.
🏫 Educational & Group Tours
Guided and self-guided K–12 field trips are available free with advance reservation; these interpretive programs focus on ecology, history, and environmental stewardship.
❌ Regulation Highlights
No pets, bicycles, or smoking are allowed to protect wildlife and preserve the serene environment.
Visitor Tips
- Day-use only: Park is open sunrise–sunset; no camping permitted.
- Parking & access: Limited parking on Orr Springs Road, especially during trail maintenance—arrive early.
- Trail conditions: Steep trail entrance and muddy sections common—wear sturdy footwear.
- No pets: Service animals only, per park rules.
- No bikes/smoking: Bicycles and smoking are prohibited to safeguard sensitive habitats.
- Seasonal weather: Winter temps dip below 40°F, summer may reach 85°F. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions.
- Protect plants: Stay on trails to avoid poison oak and preserve fragile undergrowth.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Visit in spring to hear the creek swell, and spot newts and spawning frogs in Montgomery Creek. Hike mid-morning to catch sunbeams filtering through cathedral-like redwoods—ideal for atmospheric photos. For peace and solitude, save your visit for a weekday; on weekends the limited parking fills early. And don’t miss the hidden Kellieowen Grove just one-third mile in—its ancient tree rings and fern-encrusted creek banks make it a standout natural sanctuary often overlooked by larger tour groups.