19 |
BOY SCOUT |
DISTANCE: 5.6 miles round-trip
HIKING TIME: 3 hours
SEASON: year-round
DIFFICULTY: moderate
Boy Scout Tree Trail meanders past old-growth redwoods, giant sword ferns, and clover-like sorrel, ending at pretty Fern Falls. It is downright humbling—in a good way—to walk among these giants.
The hike is simple, with no trail junctions, and it never gains or loses much elevation. Despite the minimal grade, the trip is slow going, because there’s so much to see. The lush understory of foliage at your feet is as oversized and remarkable as the huge redwoods towering overhead.
Nearing 1.5 miles, the trail approaches Jordan Creek, and the redwoods increase in size. Streamside foliage includes huckleberry, salmonberry, and vine maples. Greenery springs out of every available inch of space. At 2.4 miles, take the unsigned spur trail at your right a short distance to see the largest tree on this trail—the Boy Scout Tree, named by its discoverer, who also founded the local Boy Scout troop. The tree has one huge base that splits into two trunks.
Too soon you’ll reach the trail’s end at Fern Falls, a 35-foot cascade on a feeder stream into Jordan Creek. Turn around and follow this same charming path right back to your car.
From U.S. 101 in Crescent City, turn east on Elk Valley Rd. and drive 1.1 miles to Howland Hill Rd. on the right. Turn right and drive 3.5 miles to the Boy Scout Tree trailhead on the left.
