Around Dean Creek
There are so many things to do at the Dean Creek Resort & Motel. The property is tucked away on the Eel River, where the Eel converges with Dean creek. Whether you are our guests for the night or a week you can go hiking, fishing or more. The Dean Creek Motel is only miles away from the local town of Redway. The property itself features a arcade, pool, seasonal hot tub for guests over the age of 14, sauna, stage for concerts, mini golf course and horse shoe pits.
Fish Caught on the Eel River
You can see amazing Redwood Trees all over the property and surrounding areas.
Salmon and Steelhead fishing in the Eel River
Located 15 south of Eureka is the mouth of the fantastic Eel River which flows for approximately 100 miles north through Mendocino and Humboldt counties. The Eel flows through some of the most beautiful redwood groves in the state, including Humboldt Redwood State Park. The Eel River offers year-round fishing opportunities, with fall and winter salmon and steelhead runs being the best known. The primary fish of interest for the Eel include steelhead, chinook, coho, and sea-run cutthroat trout. The average Eel chinooks are 8-15 lbs, with some up to 40lbs. Winter steelhead are what the Eel River is known for. The winter steelhead start moving into the river in November running through March, with peak activity during January. The average Eel steelie runs 8-10 lbs, with fish to 16lbs common and a number of fish in the 20lb class caught each year.
Hiking in the “Avenue of the Giants” – home of the world’s tallest living trees
The "Avenue of the Giants" in Humboldt County has been easily called the most scenic drive among the redwoods, and has been referred to as the finest forest drive in the world. The famous 31-mile avenue parallels highway 101 and offers a wonderful alternate (and slower) route through southern Humboldt County. This beautiful drive is for the most party flat with gentle curves, it passes secluded forest hamlets, campgrounds, picnic areas, and access points to the Eel River, a federally-designated Wild & Scenic waterway with idyllic swimming, fishing and paddling spots. Numerous trailheads can be found along the Avenue, each leading into the magical redwood forest.
Briceland Vineyards
Founded in 1985 by Humboldt wine pioneers, Joe Collins and Maggie Carey, Briceland is the original producer of Humboldt Pinot Noir and Humboldt Brut Sparkling wines. The winery is the first in the county to have a second generation winemaker. Andrew & Rosie Morris now operate the winery which is best known for Single Vineyard Pinot Noirs, Methode Champenoise Sparkling wine and a variety of no-oak whites and distinctive reds. Over 70% of the 2000 cases they make are produced from tiny hillside vineyards which are hand farmed without the use of pesticides or herbicides. Purchases and tours can be arranged by email or phone.
Benbow Valley Golf Course
With meticulously tended greens and glorious Humboldt County views, the Benbow Valley Golf Course near Garberville is not only the lone public golf course in southern Humboldt County, but also one of Northern California’s most challenging. This nine-hole, par-35 course features two sets of tees, allowing golfers to play 18 holes. Described by many as “unforgiving,” players are often surprised to discover just how challenging it is. There is an additional set of tees for the junior or beginning golfer, making this a perfect family activity. In addition to its golf course and well-stocked pro shop, the Benbow Valley Golf Course offers a putting green and practice sand trap. The manicured putting green, flanked with sand bunkers, allows players to practice their putting and improve their chipping skills. It’s fun for serious golfers and beginners alike.
Exploring the Victorian village of Ferndale
Escape to a magical town that offers nostalgia from the past of the excitement of the present. Tucked away between the California Redwoods and Humboldt Bay, the Victorian Village of Ferndale sits amidst the gorgeous backdrop of Northern California's magnificent Lost Coast. Visitors usually come here for the fantastic preserved Victorian era architecture and stunning coastal scenery. It is also the hometown of star chef Guy Fieri!
The Lost Coast of Humboldt County
The Lost Coast is California's only coastal wilderness, where no development or major roads come near the ocean. This wild and spectacular scenic drive is the closest you can come to the Lost Coast without a backpack. Drive from Victorian Ferndale, through high alpine forests, to the water's edge, along the northern edge of Kings Range and then to the redwoods of Humboldt Redwoods State park. Road can be narrow, windy and bumpy in places. Be prepared to witness Incredible ocean vistas, sweeping grasslands, tiny rural towns and coastal forest in this extremely isolated section of California coastline.
Bear River Casino
Sitting high on a hill overlooking the scenic Eel River Valley, is the Bear River Casino. Surrounded by green, rolling hills, as you arrive at the Casino, you may see cattle and sheep quietly grazing nearby. You’ll find some of the best gaming action in Humboldt County at Bear River Casino; the North Coast’s premier entertainment destination. Try your luck at one of the 356 slot machines or 14 table games including Blackjack and Pai Gow Poker. Join the Player’s Club and receive $10 in free slot play, a winning swipe at a Kiosk, as well as discounts on meals at the Rivers Edge Restaurant, Thirsty Bear Lounge & Express Café.
Whale Watching in Humboldt
Witness nature at its best. Choose a clear calm day, bring your binoculars and watch for their spouting. Grey whales may reach up to 50 feet in length and weigh up to 45 tons. They travel 70 - 80 miles per day at a rate of three to five miles per hour. During their migration the whales will travel in small groups and stay fairly close to the shoreline. During the March - June migration, the whales lead their new-born calves back to the Arctic waters. Look for the blow --- a puff of steam standing up to 12 feet off the water. Where there is one blow, others are sure to follow as they tend to travel in groups of two to six. Optimum viewing months are September - January and March - June. Early morning hours are the best. The southern migratory season is September - January as the whales make their way to Baja. Between March and June, these spectacular mammals return to their northern waters. The best observation sites in Humboldt County are high on the cliffs overlooking the waters. Shelter Cove, Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, otherwise known as the Lost Coast Table Bluff just south of Humboldt Bay - Hookton Rd/Loleta Exit off Hwy 101 Hike to the overlook on Trinidad Head, Patrick's Point State Park, north of Trinidad, along the Rim Trail or just head for the beach.