About
Walk the same trail intrepid explorers and movie producers have trod at Fern Canyon. This otherworldly forest feels like a walk into another world, with fifty-foot walls, bright green ferns, and moss lining both sides of the trail.
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park has drawn curious travelers for decades and even caught Hollywood's attention. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves; we’ll save that for our next section.
Home Creek took thousands of years to shape this narrow gorge, and the result is spellbinding. Aside from its famous ferns and lively ecosystem, wildlife call the canyon home. Most creatures avoid humans, but black bears, mountain lions, coyotes, and bobcats live in the shade.
Walking along the creek bed, visitors follow a path once traveled by ancient creatures. It’s easy to see why the Prairie Creek Visitor Center lists Fern Canyon as a must-see for anyone exploring the Redwood parks.
Fern Canyon: Fun Facts & Cool Features
What makes this attraction spectacular is that the walls are alive with five types of ferns, some with roots stretching back to the time of dinosaurs. From top to bottom, the canyon glows with a curtain of green, drawing nature lovers and botanists alike.
When you visit, you’ll hike the Fern Canyon Loop Trail, a 1.5-mile trek that is rated “easy” by AllTrails, making it ideal for all ages. Fallen logs and wooden footbridges cross the canyon floor, turning the hike into an adventure through a forest that feels untouched by time.
Another feature that appeals to all the senses is the water cascading down the canyon walls year-round. In spring and early summer, the creek rises, so waterproof shoes or sandals with good grip come in handy.
Pacific giant salamanders and Roosevelt elk often make appearances near the trailhead. The canyon’s dramatic scenery has also starred in nature documentaries and blockbuster movies like Jurassic Park 2: Lost Worlds (1997) and the BBC series Walking with Dinosaurs (2000).
Gold Bluffs Beach sits just nearby, so it’s easy to pair a canyon walk with time on the sand. Watch for whales or enjoy the wild, windswept coast.
So, pack some snacks, fill that water bottle, and hit the trail at Fern Canyon. It’s a highlight of any Redwood Coast trip and an adventure you’ll remember long after you leave.
Local Tips
- Arrive early during peak season to beat the crowds and secure parking.
- The road to the canyon (Davison Road) is unpaved and can be rough.
- Bring cash for the day-use fee, as credit card acceptance isn't guaranteed.
- Check the official NPS site for up-to-date information.
- Watch for Roosevelt elk near the trailhead, but keep a safe distance.
