Let's Explore Trinidad, California!

Trinidad, California is a small town of about 300 people on California's north coast. Its picturesque setting is complemented by an extensive trail system for public enjoyment.

Above are Trinidad Harbor, Trinidad Head and Little Head seen from steps below the Memorial Lighthouse [pictured left]. The steps lead to a quiet beach on Trinidad Bay. Walking south along the beach, we cross two small creeks and come to another trail up to town. By taking it, we can explore more of Trinidad and loop back to the Memorial Lighthouse. Turn left at the top of the steps, walk past the climbing roses along the bluff, and exit via Wagner Street.

A trail loops around Trinidad Head with views of Trinidad, Trinidad Bay, Trinidad State Beach, Pewetole Island, Elk Head, Trinidad pier and harbor, and the coast north and south. On clear days, you can see Patrick's Point and Eureka. The trail is moderately strenuous but well worth the effort. Allow at least an hour for this hike. Parking is available below Trinidad Head.

Southeast of Trinidad along Scenic Drive are numerous small beaches and coves, sea stacks, and rugged rocky bluffs with spectacular vistas of Trinidad and Trinidad Head. Trails lead from parking spots along Scenic Drive down to Baker Beach, Luffenholtz Beach and Houda Point. An active earthflow has closed Scenic Drive to vehicles between Luffenholtz Beach and Tepona Point.

Northwest of Trinidad are College Cove and Elk Head. These two spots are most easily accessed from a parking area off Stagecoach Road. The trail from the parking area to Omenoku Point is nearly level and takes about 15 minutes one way. There is also a worthwhile, although moderately strenuous, trail connecting the parking area at Trinidad State Park across Mill Creek to the trail system at Elk Head. Allow about half an hour one way for this hike. See the Trinidad Chamber of Commerce map for parking and trail location.

Patrick's Point State Park, 10 minutes north of Trinidad, is a big favorite. Great trails! Great views! Lots to see and do for kids of all ages!

Big Lagoon, 15 minutes north of Trinidad, is fun for picnicking, swimming, agate hunting, fishing, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and birdwatching.

The redwood parks near Orick are just 25 minutes north of Trinidad. Simply majestic... Allow plenty of time to explore the redwoods, too.

Other photos and information

Stephen Hamilton of Trinidad has posted some wonderful QuickTime® panoramas at selected points in the Trinidad area.

J. Scott Shannon has compiled a photo history of Trinidad, California.

See the Trinidad Chamber of Commerce website about lodging and other services, activities and events, and the history of Trinidad, California.

Humboldt County provides information online on all of the Humboldt County Parks.

Visit the City of Trinidad's official website for city government news, downloadable documents, and links to other community and government websites.

In addition to the State, County and City efforts, the non-profit Humboldt North Coast Land Trust has acquired several key places in order to protect their beauty and character. The Trust holds Houda Point and several other coastal sites for public benefit.

A valuable aid to Trinidad explorers is The hiker's hip pocket guide to the Humboldt Coast by Bob Lorentzen. I highly recommend this little book to visitors and locals alike. And Neer Cartography provides an online street map of northern Humboldt County that you can download and print.