This Deep Green Gorge In Northern California Is Out Of A Fairy Tale

Our region of the Golden State is filled with gorgeous attractions that continue to blow us away. However, there’s one particularly beautiful destination that boasts a type of beauty that is truly above and beyond. Walking through this deep green gorge feels like entering some sort of fairy tale world, and it’s an experience that every Northern Californian should have at least once. Visit this destination and prepare to be in complete awe. We can guarantee you’ve never seen anything like it before!

If you’ve lived in Northern California for any amount of time, it’s likely you’ve heard of the spectacular natural wonder known as Fern Canyon. Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this lusciously green gorge will sweep you off your feet.

Kirt Edblom/Flickr

Photographs of Fern Canyon are absolutely beautiful, but nothing compares to seeing this stunning location in person. It does take a bit of effort to find this fantastic gem, but let’s be real—it’s totally worth it.

Tjflex2/Flickr

To get there, you’ll drive on the unpaved Davison Road from Orick on Highway 101 before uncovering this incredible canyon. Covered head to toe in bright green ferns, you’ll instantly see why the canyon gained its name.

mlhradio/Flickr

A trail runs right through the canyon, making it easy to explore this lovely natural wonder. As you traverse it, you’ll spot several different types of ferns clinging to the canyon’s walls. In fact, the region is home to seven species of ferns.

Jeffrey Real/Flickr

Some of the fern types are considered ancient, dating back 325 million years. And the wildlife is just as incredible! Keep an eye out for salamanders, frogs, and other types of beautiful amphibians.

Windell Oskay/Flickr

The trail is well-maintained and the canyon’s wall just get taller and narrower the farther along you go. It truly is like something straight out of a fantastical fairytale.

Mike/Flickr

As you explore the trail, you’ll become totally immersed in the sights and sounds of this magical place. The soft tricking of water, the rustling of fern leaves, the movement of animals crawling across the canyon floor—all of it is simply fantastic.

Wayne Hsieh/Flickr

Keep in mind that Fern Canyon is known for being very moist. Waterproof shoes are a must if you decide to take on the canyon’s hiking trail, although getting a little wet is all part of the fun.

Jeffrey Real/Flickr Address: Newton B. Drury Scenic Pkwy, Orick, CA 95555. The vehicle fee to enter Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is $8 per car.

Have you been to this deep green gorge before? Fern Canyon is one of Northern California’s greatest natural wonders. Check out this list of the 12 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In Northern California for more destinations like this one!