Willits isn't just a place to rest your head for the night; it is a vibrant destination brimming with small-town charm, deep historical roots, and unmatched access to Northern California's natural wonders. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, a lover of local art, or traveling with family, Willits offers a unique collection of attractions that capture the true spirit of Mendocino County.

Here is an in-depth look at the absolute best things to see and do right here in town, all located just minutes from your room.

🚂 The Skunk Train (0.9 mi)

Arguably the most famous attraction in the region, the historic California Western Railroad—affectionately known as The Skunk Train—has been operating through the redwoods since 1885. Originally built as a logging route to move massive timber to the coast, it now offers visitors an unforgettable journey into the past.

• The Experience: You can step aboard vintage diesel locomotives or historic passenger cars and journey deep into the ancient redwood forests, crossing wooden trestle bridges and winding along the scenic Noyo River canyon.

• Railbikes: For a more active adventure, try their custom-built, pedal-powered Railbikes. They allow you to glide quietly along the tracks directly under the towering forest canopy, offering a peaceful, immersive way to experience nature.

🏛️ Mendocino County Museum (0.9 mi)

To truly appreciate the character of Willits, a visit to the Mendocino County Museum is essential. This beautifully curated facility preserves and showcases the diverse cultural heritage of the region.

• The Exhibits: The museum features a fascinating array of permanent and rotating exhibits, including extensive collections of beautiful Pomo Indian basketry, artifacts from the early pioneer and logging eras, historic firearms, and memorabilia from local counterculture movements. It provides a meaningful look at the people and industries that shaped the rugged landscape of Northern California.

🚂 Roots of Motive Power (0.9 mi)

Located directly adjacent to the Mendocino County Museum, Roots of Motive Power is an absolute haven for machinery enthusiasts and history lovers alike. This unique all-volunteer organization is dedicated to preserving the heavy steam- and diesel-powered equipment used in California's early logging and railroad industries.

• What to See: Their incredible collection includes operational steam donkeys, massive locomotives, vintage cranes, and antique tractors. If you are lucky enough to visit during one of their seasonal "Steam Up" events, you can witness these massive, historical mechanical giants fired up, operational, and puffing steam just as they did over a century ago.

🎨 Willits Center for the Arts (0.9 mi)

Centrally located in the heart of downtown, the Willits Center for the Arts serves as the cultural hub of the community. Housed in the historic Great Redwood Building, the center celebrates the incredible wealth of creative talent found throughout Mendocino County.

• What to Expect: The main gallery features monthly rotating exhibitions highlighting regional painters, sculptors, photographers, and ceramicists. It’s the perfect place to stroll through after a nice lunch, admire local artistic expressions, and perhaps even pick up a one-of-a-kind piece of Northern California art to take home.

🐎 Seabiscuit Heritage Foundation at Ridgewood Ranch (5.8 mi)

Just a short drive south of town lies Ridgewood Ranch, the historic home of Seabiscuit, the legendary Thoroughbred who captured the heart of the nation during the Great Depression.

• The Legacy: Managed by the Seabiscuit Heritage Foundation, the ranch preserves the pristine pastures, the historic stud barn, and the beautiful landscape where the famous champion lived, trained, and rested. Walking tours are available seasonally, offering an intimate look at the life of the horse that became an international symbol of resilience and hope.

⛳ Brooktrails Golf Course & Disc Golf (3.6 mi)

If you want to spend a relaxing afternoon outdoors without driving out of the area, head up into the hills to the Brooktrails Golf Course.

• The Layout: This hidden gem features a challenging 9-hole executive golf course designed by Robert Muir Graves, entirely carved out of a dense, majestic redwood forest.

• Disc Golf: For those who prefer a different kind of game, it also boasts a highly rated, scenic disc golf course. Playing a round here means walking among towering giants, breathing in fresh mountain air, and enjoying peaceful solitude.

From quick roadside stops to full-day hikes, the redwoods are an unforgettable experience:

• Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree – Drive through the base of a living giant.
  
  

• Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area – Trails, swimming, and camping.
  
  

• Confusion Hill – Gravity House – Optical illusions and quirky fun.
  
  

• One Log House – A home carved from a single redwood log.
  
  

• Grandfather Tree – Towering landmark with a gift shop.
  
  

• Avenue of the Giants – Iconic scenic drive through ancient forests.
  
  

• Humboldt Redwoods State Park – Some of the tallest trees in the world.
  
  

• Rockefeller Forest – Dense groves of majestic giants.
  
  

• Fern Canyon – Jurassic Park filming location with lush, fern-covered walls.

No trip to Northern California is complete without immersing yourself in the majesty of the coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens). As the tallest living things on Earth, these ancient giants create a cathedral-like atmosphere that feels completely removed from the modern world. Willits serves as the perfect launchpad for your redwood adventure. Whether you are looking for a quick, quirky roadside photo-op or a deep, silent hike through an old-growth grove, these iconic stops along the Redwood Highway (Highway 101) offer an unforgettable experience.

🚗 Quirky Roadside Wonders & Attractions

Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree (Leggett, CA) Located just a short drive north of the inn, this world-famous, 276-foot-tall coast redwood is an enduring icon of classic California tourism. Carved out in 1937, the tree's opening is 6 feet wide and 6.75 feet tall, allowing standard automobiles to literally drive right through the base of a living giant. Don't forget to fold in your mirrors and snap a classic photo!

Confusion Hill – Gravity House (Piercy, CA) A beloved, family-friendly roadside attraction that has been baffling visitors since 1947. Famous for its optical illusions, the Gravity House is built on a notorious hillside where the laws of physics seem to warp—water appears to flow uphill and people stand at impossible angles. It also features a unique narrow-gauge mountain train ride and the world's tallest totem pole.

One Log House (Garberville, CA) Built in 1946, this incredible mobile home was meticulously hollowed out from a single, massive 2,100-year-old redwood log. Inside the 32-foot-long space, you’ll find an entirely functional living area, including a bedroom, kitchen, and dining space. It’s a fascinating testament to the sheer scale of these ancient trees.

Grandfather Tree (Piercy, CA) Estimated to be over 1,800 years old, the Grandfather Tree is one of the most famous individual giants along Highway 101. Standing at 265 feet tall with a staggering 24-foot diameter, it is celebrated as one of the widest trees in the region. It’s a perfect, easy-access stop to stretch your legs and admire old-growth scale up close.

🥾 Majestic State Parks & Scenic Drives

Avenue of the Giants (SR 254) This world-renowned, 31-mile scenic highway is arguably the most beautiful drive in the United States. Running parallel to Highway 101, this old route winds directly through the heart of Humboldt Redwoods State Park. It is completely surrounded by towering, colossal trees that filter the sunlight into a magical green haze. There are numerous turnouts, picnic areas, and short trailheads right off the pavement.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park & Rockefeller Forest Encompassing over 53,000 acres, this park protects the largest remaining contiguous expanse of ancient, old-growth coast redwoods on the planet.

• Rockefeller Forest: The undisputed crown jewel of the park. Spanning 10,000 acres, it offers a deeply peaceful, silent atmosphere. Be sure to hike the short Founders Grove Nature Trail to see the Founders Tree and the massive, fallen Dyerville Giant.

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area Serving as the southern gateway to the redwood country, this park offers a beautiful mix of towering trees and river adventures. It features the Miles Standish Tree, a 1,200-year-old giant that stands 225 feet tall. During the summer, it is an incredible spot to find deep, clear swimming holes along the South Fork of the Eel River.

Fern Canyon (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park) For those willing to take a spectacular day trip further north, Fern Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder. Walk along a cobblestone creek bed between 50-foot canyon walls that are completely draped in lush, dripping native ferns. The prehistoric vibe is so strong here that Steven Spielberg chose it as a filming location for The Lost World: Jurassic Park. (Note: Seasonal reservations may be required for vehicle access).

Fort Bragg: The Jewel of the Mendocino Coast 🌊

Just a scenic 45-to-60-minute drive from Willits, Fort Bragg offers a stunning contrast to the inland redwoods. Once a rugged mill town and military garrison, it has transformed into a premier coastal destination known for its dramatic cliffs, unique geological wonders, and vibrant maritime culture. Whether you’re looking to walk on "jeweled" beaches or dine on the freshest Pacific catch, Fort Bragg is the ultimate coastal day trip.

✨ Glass Beach: From Industrial Past to Shimmering Shore

Perhaps the most famous shoreline in California, Glass Beach is a testament to the power of the ocean to transform trash into treasure.

• The History: For much of the early 20th century, these coves were used as municipal dump sites. Over decades, the pounding surf tumbled and polished the discarded glass, ceramic, and metal into smooth, translucent "sea glass."

• The Three Sites: There are actually three different glass beach coves. Site #3 (Main Beach) is the most accessible, located right at the end of the Glass Beach trail. Site #2 and #1 are located further south along the coastal bluffs and often have more abundant glass for photography, though the paths are steeper.

• Pro-Tip: Check the tide charts before you go! The best time to see the glass is during low tide. Please remember: Look, but don't take. Collecting glass is prohibited to ensure this unique wonder remains for future generations.

🌸 Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (2.4 mi from downtown)

Ranked as one of the top public gardens in the U.S., this 47-acre preserve is unique because it is one of the few botanical gardens in the world that terminates at a coastal bluff.

• The Collections: Wander through world-class collections of Rhododendrons, Camellias, and Magnolias. The gardens also feature a lush Fern Canyon, a heritage orchard, and a spectacular Heather collection.

• The Experience: Follow the winding paths all the way to the ocean-front cliffs, where you’ll find benches perfectly positioned for whale watching (seasonal) or simply listening to the crashing surf.

• Seasonal Magic: If visiting in winter, don't miss the Festival of Lights, where the gardens are transformed into a twinkling holiday wonderland.

⚓ Noyo Harbor: The Heart of the Waterfront

Nestled at the mouth of the Noyo River, this is one of California’s few remaining working fishing villages.

• Dining & Culture: Visit The Wharf or other local eateries to enjoy Dungeness crab, rockfish, and salmon straight from the boats. You can sit on the decks and watch the commercial fishing fleet navigate the narrow harbor entrance.

• Wildlife & Activities: The harbor is a hub for kayaking and paddleboarding. As you glide through the calm river waters, you’ll likely see curious harbor seals and sea lions lounging on the docks or swimming alongside your boat.

🐳 MacKerricher State Park (3 mi North)

This park offers an incredible variety of habitats, from sandy beaches and tide pools to forest and wetlands.

• Laguna Point Boardwalk: This accessible wooden boardwalk leads you out to a prime lookout point. It is one of the best spots on the coast for whale watching during the winter and spring migrations.

• Harbor Seal Rookery: Just off the boardwalk, you can observe a resident colony of harbor seals resting on the offshore rocks.

• Lake Cleone: A beautiful 30-acre brackish lake perfect for birdwatching, where you can spot over 90 species of birds, including blue herons and ospreys.

🚂 The Coastal Skunk Train & Railbikes

While the Skunk Train runs out of Willits, it also has a dedicated coastal route departing from the Fort Bragg Depot.

• Pudding Creek Express: A 7-mile roundtrip journey that follows the Pudding Creek Estuary. You’ll cross historic trestles and see ancient redwoods while keeping an eye out for wildlife like blue herons and river otters.

• Pudding Creek Railbikes: For a unique workout, pedal your way along the tracks on custom-built railbikes. It’s a quiet, immersive way to see the estuary and forest.

Mendocino Village & Coastal Parks 🎨

Located just 10 miles south of Fort Bragg, the Village of Mendocino is a place where time seems to have slowed down. Perched on a peninsula surrounded by the churning Pacific, this "Cape Cod of the West" is famous for its preserved saltbox cottages, vibrant art scene, and dramatic headlands. Originally a booming logging town in the mid-1800s, it reinvented itself in the 1950s as a creative colony, a legacy that continues to define its soul today.

🏛️ Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park

Located four miles north of Mendocino, this 296-acre park is a living link to California’s maritime history.

• The Lighthouse: Completed in 1909, the restored lighthouse features its original third-order Fresnel lens, which still sweeps its beam across the water today. You can tour the main floor museum and visit the beautifully restored lightkeepers’ houses.

• The Frolic Shipwreck: Frolic Cove, just north of the tower, is the site of the 1850 wreck of the clipper brig Frolic. The cargo of Chinese silks and housewares on that ship actually led to the "discovery" of the region's massive redwoods by the salvage crew.

• Marine Science Exhibit: Housed in the old Blacksmith Shop, this exhibit features a tidepool aquarium and detailed information about the whales and seals that migrate past the point.

🌉 Russian Gulch State Park

Often cited as one of the most beautiful parks in the state, Russian Gulch offers a perfect blend of high-drama coastline and deep-forest solitude.

• The Panhorst Bridge: One of the most photographed structures in California, this graceful 100-foot-high concrete arch bridge carries Highway 1 continues over the mouth of the gulch.

• Devil’s Punchbowl: A massive, collapsed sea cave located on the headlands. During high tide or storms, the ocean surges into the cavernous hole with a thunderous roar.

• Fern Canyon Trail: A moderate hike that leads you inland through a lush canyon draped in prehistoric-looking sword ferns, terminating at a spectacular 36-foot waterfall.

🌲 Van Damme State Park & The Pygmy Forest

Van Damme is a sanctuary for those who love diverse ecosystems and unique geological wonders.

• The Pygmy Forest: A true botanical anomaly. Due to extremely nutrient-poor soil and high acidity, mature pine and cypress trees that are over a century old stand only 6 inches to 8 feet tall. A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk allows you to walk through this miniature world.

• Little River: The park’s beach is a premier spot for sea kayaking and diving. Inland, the Fern Canyon Scenic Trail follows the gentle Little River through second-growth redwoods and alders.

🎨 The Village Art Scene

Mendocino is home to a world-class concentration of galleries and creative spaces.

• Mendocino Art Center (MAC): Founded in 1959 by Bill Zacha, this center saved the town from abandonment. It remains a hub for workshops and features five galleries showcasing everything from fine ceramics to oil paintings.

• Gallery Hopping: Stroll through Highlight Gallery for heirloom woodwork, or the Artists’ Co-Op of Mendocino to meet the creators behind the photography and metalwork. The village's streets are lined with boutiques, bookstores, and chocolate shops that capture the artistic spirit of the coast.

Wine Tasting in Mendocino County 🍷

Mendocino County is widely considered the "greenest" wine region in the United States. With more certified organic vineyard acreage than any other county in the nation, it is a sanctuary for winemakers who prioritize environmental stewardship alongside world-class quality. Unlike the high-traffic corridors of Napa or Sonoma, Mendocino offers an unpretentious, authentic experience where you can often meet the winemakers themselves. The region is famous for its cool-climate varietals like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as its rugged, mountain-grown Zinfandels and Cabernet Sauvignons.

🏛️ Barra of Mendocino (7.2 mi)

The Barra family has been farming in Mendocino County since 1955, making them one of the most respected names in California viticulture. All of their grapes are 100% estate-grown and certified organic.

• The Tasting Room: A true architectural landmark, the tasting room is a massive, 5,000-square-foot circular building made of solid redwood. It features a stunning 40-foot fireplace and expansive ceilings, providing a grand yet cozy atmosphere.

• The Wines: Barra is renowned for its Petite Sirah and Zinfandel, which reflect the deep, rich soils of the Redwood Valley. Their Girasole Vineyards label also offers approachable, lively blends that are perfect for a casual afternoon picnic.

🌿 Frey Vineyards (11.4 mi)

Frey Vineyards is a global pioneer in the world of organic viticulture. In 1980, they became the first winery in the United States to produce certified organic wines.

• Organic & Biodynamic: Frey goes beyond simple organic standards by practicing Biodynamic farming, which views the vineyard as a self-sustaining ecosystem. They are world-famous for their "No Sulfites Added" winemaking process, which allows the pure, natural flavors of the fruit to shine through.

• The Setting: Located in the picturesque Redwood Valley, the winery is surrounded by native oak forests and wild meadows. A visit here is more than a tasting; it’s an education in sustainable living and the harmony between agriculture and nature.

🍇 Parducci Wine Cellars (11.9 mi)

As the oldest running winery in Mendocino County, Parducci Wine Cellars is the historical anchor of the local wine scene. Established in 1932, the winery has survived through decades of change by staying true to its roots.

• Historic Cellars: The winery features historic redwood aging tanks and a cellar that feels like a step back into California’s pre-prohibition heritage. It was also the first winery in the United States to be certified carbon-neutral.

• Award-Winning Vintages: Parducci is celebrated for its True Grit line, which features bold, high-elevation varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah. Their tasting room offers a sophisticated, professional experience that highlights the diverse terroir of the Mendocino appellations.
  
  

Hiking Trails Near Willits 🥾

You don't have to drive all the way to the coast to experience the quiet majesty of Northern California's forests. Tucked into the rolling hills just a few miles north of downtown Willits lies the community of Brooktrails and its incredible Greenbelt wilderness. This local treasure features a network of protected multi-use trails that wind through dense old-growth redwood stands, second-growth groves, lush fern canyons, and bubbling creeks. Perfect for hiking, trail running, or a peaceful morning walk, these trails offer an authentic forest immersion right in our backyard.

🌲 Ohl Redwood Grove Park (3.6 mi)

If you want to experience towering coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) without committing to a long backcountry trek, Ohl Redwood Grove Park is the perfect stop.

• The Environment: Located less than five minutes up the hill in Brooktrails, this beautiful community park is nestled directly beneath a spectacular canopy of giant, old-growth redwoods.

• The Experience: Featuring dedicated picnic spots and clear paths, it offers a deeply peaceful, shaded sanctuary. It is an absolute favorite for families, photographers, and anyone looking to enjoy a cool lunch on a hot summer afternoon surrounded by ancient giants.

🍓 Thimbleberry Hiking Trail & Last Chance Trail

For hikers seeking a longer trek, a bit of physical challenge, and true backcountry peace, this connected trail system serves as the crown jewel of the Brooktrails network.

• Thimbleberry Trail: This scenic trail traces a tranquil stream basin sheltered completely by towering redwood clusters. It follows a gentle, shaded canyon floor lined with native thimbleberry bushes that burst with broad green leaves and bright red berries in the summer.

• Last Chance Trail: Branching off from the main canyon paths, this trail challenges your legs with a rugged, steady incline. As you ascend out of the deep redwood canyons toward the sun-drenched ridges, the canopy thins to reveal stunning, panoramic views of the sweeping Mendocino County countryside.

🥾 The Brooktrails Par Course Loop (Nutmeg & Gooseberry Trails)

For an easy, highly accessible walk with fantastic infrastructure, head to the heart of the Brooktrails Greenbelt to explore the local Par Course system.

• Nutmeg Trail: A wide, gentle doubletrack path that features less than 50 feet of elevation gain. This trail forms part of the local fitness circuit and is widely loved by locals as a prime, easy-access trail for walking dogs or taking a morning stroll.

• Gooseberry Trail: Seamlessly connecting into the same network, this path winds through a beautiful mix of low-lying forest ferns, wild berry brambles, and shaded oak woodlands, making it incredibly easy to customize the length of your walk.

🌊 Haehl Creek Hiking Trail

Located right along the water, the Haehl Creek Trail offers a flat, refreshing gravel walking path that runs parallel to the gentle currents of Haehl Creek.

• The Experience: This easy, family-friendly trail features a dedicated outdoor fitness circuit course built right alongside the path. It is incredibly popular for light jogging, casual walking, and birdwatching, keeping hikers cool beneath a thick riparian canopy of alders, maples, and coastal evergreens.

🌸 Fawn Lily Trail

The Fawn Lily Trail is a local botanical favorite known for its rich forest diversity and vibrant seasonal transformations.

• The Route: Winding higher up from the creek beds into the slopes, this trail displays a brilliant ecological mix of coast redwoods, Douglas firs, and massive, twisting madrone trees with their signature reddish bark.

• Spring Blooms: If you visit during the spring months, the forest floor carpets with the rare and delicate California Fawn Lily (Erythronium californicum), which displays beautiful, creamy-white nodding flowers and mottled green leaves.

📍 Address: 1221 South Main Street, Willits, CA 95490
📞 Phone: 707-459-4201
🌐 Website: www.theoldwestinn.com

With its prime location, uniquely themed cowboy rooms, and top-tier hospitality, The Old West Inn is the ultimate basecamp for your Northern California expedition. Whether you are spending your days hiking through hidden redwood canyons, sipping award-winning organic wines in the Redwood Valley, or taking a scenic drive out to the rugged Pacific coast, you will always have a clean, comfortable, and welcoming place to return to at the end of the day.