Since Headwaters Forest Reserve is part of a sensitive ecosystem, visitors should access this area appropriately. You are invited to take some time and enjoy the natural and historic values of this unique area. Learn more about hiking opportunities at the Things To Do page.

The Headwaters Forest Reserve is a component of the National Landscape Conservation System.

Elk River Trail (north end)

How to get there: To get to the north end of the Reserve along the Elk River take the Elk River Road exit off Highway 101, at the south end of Eureka. Turn right onto Elk River Road and drive approximately six miles to the Reserve parking area.

The Elk River trailhead (north end) is open all year. Parking is available at the trailhead parking lot.

Trail Information: The first 3 miles follow a narrow stream corridor of public land that parallels the South Fork Elk River. The first mile is paved and accessible for those with limited mobility. Bicycles and dogs (under owner's control) are allowed on the first 3 miles. The last 2 ½ miles wind beneath a closed tree canopy, ending at a small old-growth redwood grove. Please stay on the trail to avoid trespassing and to protect the area's natural resources.

Distance: It is 5 miles to the old-growth and ½ mile through the old growth loop, for a total 11-mile trip.

Difficulty : The first 3 miles traverse moderate terrain adjacent to the river. The remaining 2 ½ miles are moderately strenuous. Plan 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours for the first 3 miles and 2 to 2 ½ hours for the last 2 ½ miles.
Salmon Pass Trail (south end)

The Salmon Pass Trail is located in the southern part of the Headwaters Forest Reserve, and is accessible only through BLM led guided hikes.
The first ½ mile passes through a young to mid-aged forest with views of restored watershed areas. The next 2 miles ascend through the old-growth redwood forest with a view across Salmon Creek to the largest stand of Douglas-fir within the Reserve. The trail then loops back as it descends through the old-growth. This hike is considered moderately strenuous and takes 3 to 4 hours.

Guided hikes can be scheduled between May 15 and November 15 (weather permitting) by contacting the BLM Arcata Field Office at (707) 825-2300. Group size is limited to no more than 20 individuals. The Headwaters Forest Reserve is 7,472 acres of public land located 6 miles southeast of Eureka, CA. The reserve is set aside to protect and preserve the ecological and wildlife values in the area, particularly the stands of old-growth redwood that provide habitat for the threatened marbled murrelet, and the stream systems that provide habitat for threatened coho salmon.

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