Any particular secret spots between Crescent City, CA and Ukiah, CA?

Long time, no read, my friends.

Late next month I'm schlepping the family up to Eugene, OR from So' Cal' for my niece's and nephew's graduation. On the return trip I want to wind our way down the coast from Florence, OR to the Napa Valley area via US 101. I can only remember one time as a child when my family took a back road to get to some wonderful scenery we usually whizzed past. On that trip it was Mattole Road from Ferndale to Dyerville through Petrolia and Honeydew. Whenever possible we stop in Ferndale to see the Victorian buildings as we stroll through town. We also like stopping at Founders Grove in Dyerville along the Avenue of the Giants.

Are there any more gems off the beaten path I should check out?

My kids are big on animals and nature, and we all appreciate vistas of the coast.

There is a great section of northern California coast that, while not exactly 'secret', is hardly known to the casual traveler. It is, in fact, known as the Lost Coast because it's off the main (or any real) highway. But you can drive from Fortuna to Redway using back roads. This is almost certainly what you remember from your childhood. Also on this route: King Range National Conservation Area. Near the southern end of your trip, Point Reyes National Seashore is another 'hidden in plain sight' but very underutilized facility worth the side trip.

AZBuck

How about little detour to Hiouchi area through state park. Nice early morning or late evening couple hour drive from Crescent City.

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Originally Posted by jm98

How about little detour to Hiouchi area through state park. Nice early morning or late evening couple hour drive from Crescent City.

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I wish we had the time. My great uncle used to live in Smith River, so I grew up playing and swimming just to the north of there along South Bank Rd.

Time always seems to be my enemy on road trips. Maybe it won't be once I retire.

Sounds good. That is a special place and gives you feel of northern California big redwood tress and river down below.