5 Best Sights in Fort Bragg, The North Coast

Something beautiful is always abloom in these marvelous gardens. Along 4 miles of trails, including pathways with ocean views and observation points for whale-watching, lie a profusion of flowers. The rhododendrons are at their peak from April through June; the dahlias begin their spectacular show in July and last through September. In winter, the heather and camellias add more than a splash of color. The main trails are wheelchair accessible.

A multiuse path, much of it flat and steps from the rocky and highly photogenic shoreline, stretches the length of Fort Bragg. An enjoyable section lined with benches created by local artists follows the coast north about 2 miles between Noyo Headlands Park in southern Fort Bragg and Glass Beach. You can continue into MacKerricher State Park from the beach.

This park starts at Glass Beach, its draw an unfortunately dwindling supply of sea glass best spotted at low tide. Beginning with rocky headlands that taper into dunes and sandy beaches, MacKerricher stretches north for 9 miles, its cliff tops excellent for whale-watching from November through April. Fishing, canoeing, hiking, tide-pooling, jogging, bicycling, beachcombing, camping, and harbor seal watching at Laguna Point are among the popular activities, many accessible to the mobility-impaired.  Be vigilant for rogue waves—don't turn your back on the sea. Amenities: parking; toilets. Best for: solitude; sunset; walking.

When the sun's out and you're sipping wine while viewing whales or other sea creatures swimming offshore, this bluff-top winery's outdoor tasting spaces feel mystical and magical, but the site's equally beguiling on brooding stormy days. The engaging owner-winemaker, Sally Ottoson, makes whites that include Viognier and Semillon. Charbono, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, and a Zinfandel, Barbera, Charbono, and Petite Sirah blend count among the reds. Walk-ins are welcome.

A reproduction train travels a few miles of the route of its 1920s predecessor, a fume-spewing gas-powered motorcar that shuttled passengers along a rail line dating from the 1880s logging days. Nicknamed the Skunk Train, the original traversed redwood forests inaccessible to automobiles. There are also excursions from the town of Willits and seasonal and holiday-theme tours.

For a separate fee you can pedal the same rails as the Skunk Train on two-person, side-by-side, reclining bikes outfitted for the track, an experience many patrons find more diverting (albeit pricier) than the train trip.