Russian Gulch State Park

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The Frederick W. Panhorst Bridge, more commonly known as the Russian Gulch Bridge in Mendocino County from April 29, 2017, California USA
The Frederick W. Panhorst Bridge, more commonly known as the Russian Gulch Bridge in Mendocino County from April 29, 2017, California USA
New growth redwoods grow aplenty along the East Trail of Russian Gulch State Park in Mendocino, California. There is a waterfall nearby worth the hike, but just enjoying the redwoods on the East trail as well as the Falls Loop Trail is worth it in themselves. If you get going early enough in the morning, you might have them all to yourself. Access the East Trail from State Road 409, 1.25 miles up from Hwy 1.
A wonderful 3 mile hike brings you to this lovely 30-foot waterfall in this hidden gem of a state park. The Fern Canyon Trail takes you to the Falls Loop Trail. I'd take the more direct trail left at the fork, but make sure you complete the loop by taking the trail over the waterfall ledge. The return part of the loop trail is full of magical groves of old and new growth redwoods. The whole trek from parking lot is about 7 miles, but worth every step. If you hit the trail early enough you might get the waterfall for yourself for a bit. (1 mile north of Mendocino, $8 day use fee)
Today’s find: A waterfall in the middle of Russian Gulch State Park. We parked on the outskirts of the park and took the shorter hike (2 miles round trip) down “East Trail”. The trail will take you on a quiet walk through a lush forest and ends at the waterfall.

Lodging Near Russian Gulch State Park

Mendo Bungalow

Mendo Bungalow

3 out of 5
44951 Larkin Rd Mendocino CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
When you stay at Mendo Bungalow in Mendocino, you'll be by the ocean, within a 10-minute walk of Russian Gulch State Park and Agate Beach.
Clean room with a good view at a reasonable price a couple minutes from downtown Mendocino. Highly recommended!

Reviewed on 15 Jan 2026

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Harbor Lite Lodge

Harbor Lite Lodge

2.5 out of 5
120 N Harbor Dr Fort Bragg CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
When you stay at Harbor Lite Lodge in Fort Bragg, you'll be on the waterfront, within a 5-minute drive of Skunk Train and Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens.
Great location! Clean rooms. Very hot water. Nice view of harbor and seals from balcony. No complaints and would stay here again.

Reviewed on 28 Jan 2026

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Agate Cove Inn

Agate Cove Inn

3.5 out of 5
11201 N Lansing Street Mendocino CA
The price is AU$387 per night from 9 Feb to 10 Feb
AU$387
9 Feb - 10 Feb
includes taxes & fees
Located in Mendocino, Agate Cove Inn is near the beach, a 3-minute walk from Mendocino Headlands State Park and 8 minutes by foot from Russian Gulch State ...
We had a wonderful stay wish it was two nights. The room was clean and lovely. I couldn’t find anything to complain about. We loved our patio and looking out at the ocean. I was so happy they had a Tesla charger it was slow but sufficient. We especially loved the breakfast that was a real breakfast ...

Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026

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