Damnation Creek Trail

Overview

A rare redwoods-to-coast hike, Damnation Creek drops from towering old‑growth into a rugged Pacific cove. It’s about 4.2 miles total (out-and-back) with roughly 1,100–1,200 feet of elevation change; the climb out is the workout. Expect big trees, moody fog, and a dramatic forest shift as you descend toward the surf.

Route and Scenery

Start in exceptional old growth with varied trunks and bark textures, a dense understory of tall huckleberry, and rhododendrons that bloom mid‑May through June. About 0.5 miles in, you cross the historic Coastal Trail (a remnant of old Highway 101) and continue down. As you near the ocean, majestic redwoods give way to Douglas‑fir and Sitka spruce; the tread gets rougher and steeper. Near the end, a short, steep stair section carved into rock leads to a tiny, rocky cove where Damnation Creek meets the Pacific. Sea stacks dot the coastline. There aren’t ocean views until the very end, but you’ll likely hear the surf long before you see it. On the climb back, note how some ocean‑facing redwoods are light gray from salt air.

Access and Parking

The trailhead is a small, unmarked dirt pullout on the southbound side of US‑101 at mile marker 16. There’s no left‑turn lane if you’re coming from the north; plan a safe turnaround and use extra caution—traffic moves fast. Parking is limited, and vehicle break‑ins have been reported—leave nothing visible.

Tides and Safety

The pocket beach can vanish under high tide. At very low tide, you might find tidepools, but do not push past choke points; hikers have been trapped by incoming water. Check tides, watch swell, and treat wet rock and the final stair section with care. The lower trail can be rough, overgrown, and slick. Bears use this corridor—make noise and manage food properly.

Best Time to Hike

Fog is common (and atmospheric) in summer, and late‑afternoon light can be gorgeous on this west‑facing slope even when other groves go dim. Mid‑May through June adds blooming rhododendrons to the mix. This trail sees fewer people than the marquee groves, but summer weekends still draw a crowd—arrive early if you want a spot and a quieter descent.

Conditions and Tips

Expect damp, rooty tread; trekking poles help on the relentless return climb. Long pants are smart for brushy sections. Cell service is limited—download a map. Segments near the bottom and footbridges can close after storms; check current conditions before committing to the full descent. If you’re tide‑limited or bridges are out, the redwood portion alone is still a worthy out‑and‑back.