Great Redwood Trail Ukiah
Transforming old rail lines into a 300-mile recreational trail, offering gentle paths for biking and walking across diverse landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Great Redwood Trail Ukiah
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Transforming old rail lines into a 300-mile recreational trail, offering gentle paths for biking and walking across diverse landscapes.
"A safe, traffic-free path perfect for leisurely walks and bike rides along former railroad tracks."
Check Trail Status
Confirm open sections & conditions before you go, as development is ongoing. :informationdeskperson:
Bike or Walk
Ideal for cycling and walking due to gentle, former rail line inclines. :athletic_shoe: :bike:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ukiah Rail Trail Section
Ukiah, CA
A safe, traffic-free path perfect for leisurely walks and bike rides along the former railroad tracks.
Gentle Gradients
Along the entire trail route
Experience easy cycling and walking thanks to the gradual inclines inherent to old railway lines.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Development in Progress
Navigating Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
An old rail track in Northern California could become a 300-mile hiking trail — a 307-mile pathway through remote, wild country along California’s North Coast. Officials say it’s probably 20 years away from completion.
Check Trail Status
Confirm open sections & conditions before you go, as development is ongoing. :informationdeskperson:
Bike or Walk
Ideal for cycling and walking due to gentle, former rail line inclines. :athletic_shoe: :bike:
Be Prepared for Debris
Some areas may have trash or graffiti; pack accordingly. :wastebasket:
Future Trail Expansion
Exciting plans for a 300-mile trail are underway! :construction_worker:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Trail Status
Confirm open sections & conditions before you go, as development is ongoing. :informationdeskperson:
Bike or Walk
Ideal for cycling and walking due to gentle, former rail line inclines. :athletic_shoe: :bike:
Be Prepared for Debris
Some areas may have trash or graffiti; pack accordingly. :wastebasket:
Future Trail Expansion
Exciting plans for a 300-mile trail are underway! :construction_worker:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Great Redwood Trail is praised for its potential as a long, accessible recreational path, particularly the Ukiah section's safe, traffic-free environment for biking and walking. However, some visitors note that certain areas are still under development and can suffer from litter and graffiti, impacting the overall aesthetic.
"As good as walking and biking infrastructure is, this should not come at the cost of rail transportation infrastructure. The trail itself is not a problem, the problem is them removing a railway line to some of northwest CA's most important cities. If they don't want to spend the money to keep the line open to Eureka due to the flooding/landslide problem in the Eel River Canyon, the least they could do is keep it open to Willits, and not remove rail infrastructure for a bike trail; it's not that hard to just build the trail next to the railway."
Shane Gemberling
"The Great Redwood Rail Trail is known by locals as the Ukiah Rail Trail. It is a straight path that follows the railroad tracks. It provides a safe place to ride your bike or walk without dealing with much traffic. There are plans to create a trail from Novato, Ca. to Arcata, Ca. We will just have to wait and see as this project develops and evolves."
Jonathan Escalante
"They barely cleaned up the old tran tracts and labeled it "the great redwood trail" even though it's infested with trash, needles, crack heads, and lots of trashy graffiti, horrible trail, waste of tax dollars"
Seth Allen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ukiah section of the Great Redwood Trail follows old railroad tracks and is accessible from various points within Ukiah. Look for access points along the former rail line.
Parking availability can vary depending on the specific access point you choose. It's advisable to research local parking options near your intended starting point.
While direct public transport to trailheads might be limited, you can use local transit to get to Ukiah and then access the trail from there. Check local transit schedules for routes within Ukiah.
The Ukiah Rail Trail, part of the larger Great Redwood Trail project, can be accessed from several points within the city. Locals refer to it as the Ukiah Rail Trail.
The trail is designed for pedestrians and cyclists. Large vehicles are not suitable for the trail itself, though parking areas may accommodate them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Great Redwood Trail is generally open to the public for free use as a recreational path.
As an outdoor trail, it's typically accessible during daylight hours. However, specific access points might have posted hours.
There is no admission fee to access and use the Great Redwood Trail.
Generally, no permits are required for casual walking or biking. Special event permits might be needed for organized group activities.
The full 300-mile trail is a long-term project, with officials estimating it could be around 20 years away from completion.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The trail follows old railroad tracks, meaning it's mostly flat with very gradual inclines, making it easy for walking and biking.
While the trail offers a traffic-free environment, some users have reported issues with debris and undesirable individuals in certain sections. It's wise to be aware of your surroundings.
The trail passes through various landscapes, including urban areas and potentially more natural settings as the project expands.
Facilities can be sparse, especially in undeveloped sections. It's best to plan ahead and use facilities at your starting point or in nearby towns.
The flat, paved or packed-dirt surface of the former rail line generally makes it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though conditions can vary.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for interesting graffiti, the straight lines of the trail, and any natural scenery that emerges as you explore different sections.
Yes, the gentle slopes and straight paths make it relatively easy to pause for photos while biking.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the visual appeal of the trail and its surroundings.
The contrast between urban elements like graffiti and the potential for natural beauty offers unique photographic subjects.
Depending on the section and time of day, you might encounter local wildlife. Always maintain a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and water, as facilities can be limited. Keep an eye out for interesting sights like old railway remnants or local flora and fauna. While some sections might have graffiti, the overall experience is positive for a family outing.
🚴 Cyclists and Runners
Consider starting in Ukiah to experience a well-established section. Be aware that the trail is still under development, so some parts might be rougher than others. Planning your route and checking for recent trail reports is recommended.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of the Great Redwood Trail
Travelers can currently enjoy open sections, particularly the Ukiah Rail Trail, which serves as a prime example of the trail's potential. The inherent nature of old rail lines means the trail offers remarkably gentle inclines, making it exceptionally accessible for walkers, runners, and cyclists of all skill levels. This characteristic is a significant draw for those seeking a less strenuous outdoor experience.
However, the development process means that trail conditions can vary. Some sections are well-maintained and clean, while others may still show signs of neglect, including trash and graffiti. It's recommended to check local advisories for the most up-to-date information on trail status and conditions before planning your visit.
Navigating the Ukiah Rail Trail
The trail's straight path and minimal elevation changes, characteristic of its railway origins, make it an ideal choice for families with strollers, individuals using wheelchairs, or anyone preferring a relaxed pace. It serves as a practical urban amenity, connecting different parts of Ukiah and offering a pleasant escape from city traffic.
While the Ukiah Rail Trail offers a convenient experience, it's worth noting that some reviews mention the presence of trash and graffiti in certain areas. This is a common challenge for urban trails and underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and community efforts to keep the trail inviting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit