Hiouchi Trail

Hiouchi Trail is a roughly 2-mile out-and-back along the Smith River through riparian forest and redwoods, starting by the west end of Hiouchi Bridge. The published two-mile figure does not say whether it is one way or round trip; the mapped bridge-side corridor is about a mile each way, so this entry counts the return. Allow around 1½ hours as a planning estimate. The grade rolls up and down but is not steep.

A small alluvial flat gives way to a rougher, slower trail that rises and falls across two ravines above the river. Dense huckleberry understory screens much of the water and old-growth forest, so this is not a continuous overlook walk. A few openings along the terrace give the clearest views of the Smith River and wooded banks.

This entry follows the bridge-side river corridor and returns the same way. Longer outings described toward Stout Grove can reach about 4.4 miles round trip and use a different southern connection and turnaround. A seasonal footbridge links the trail with campground and grove access; its availability changes through the year, so check current conditions before planning that longer connection. If the crossing is unavailable, turn back at the river-side approach rather than relying on it.

The route passes old-growth redwoods among California bay, tanoak, Douglas-fir and Pacific madrone. Salal, huckleberry and thimbleberry grow in the understory; their berries attract wildlife in late summer and fall, though sightings are never guaranteed. The small river openings are the best places to frame water and forest together.

Use the marked trailhead just before the west end of Hiouchi Bridge on Highway 199. Parking is limited, and RVs or trailers are not advised. Expect uneven, rough footing and two ravines. Pets are not allowed on park trails. The seasonal campground footbridge is an alternate connection, not a year-round access point.