North Coast

Fleener Creek Trail-Lost Coast Headlands

Photo: Bureau of Land Management

The California North Coast region extends from windswept beaches in Del Norte County at the Oregon border, southward some 370 miles through Humboldt, Mendocino and Sonoma Counties, to the spectacular Marin headlands overlooking San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. The world’s tallest trees, the California coast’s largest river, and the longest undammed river in the State are all found in the north coast. Timber, agriculture and commercial fishing traditionally shaped the economy, but tourism has become increasingly important, as the region’s stunning natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities draw visitors from around the world. Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Point Reyes National Seashore, the Lost Coast, Redwood National and State Parks, coastal paths in Mendocino and uncrowded beaches along the North and South Spits of Humboldt Bay are just a few of the North Coast highlights to be explored in California’s least-populated coastal region.

The five-county north coast region – including Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Sonoma and Marin Counties – is one of the least populated in California, with just under one million residents. American Indian tribes have made their home within this region for thousands of years and maintain a strong presence. Small cities straddle the two transportation corridors (Highway 1 along the coast and Highway 101 inland) and include Crescent City, Eureka, Ukiah, Fort Bragg, and Santa Rosa. Family farms, dairies, vineyards and rolling grasslands with grazing sheep and cattle characterize this area.

North Coast Project Priorities

The Conservancy’s North Coast Program recognizes the importance of this region, and supports projects in the area to preserve open space and working lands, protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat, provide new and improved opportunities for public access, and revitalize harbors and waterfronts. Major focus areas include:

  • Protect Working Landscapes
  • Protect, Restore and Enhance Fish and Wildlife Habitat
  • Support Restoration of Waterfronts
  • Complete the Coastal Trail
  • Climate Change Adaptation
  • The Great Redwood Trail