Headwaters Forest Reserve

Bureau of Land Management, California.

The 7,472-acre Headwaters Forest Reserve (Reserve) was established in 1999 after a decade-long grassroots effort to protect the world's last unprotected, intact, old-growth redwood forest ecosystem. Several threatened species call the Reserve home, including coho salmon, the northern spotted owl, and the marbled murrelet. Deep in the heart of the Headwaters, old-growth forest is the beginnings or headwaters of the South Fork Elk River and Salmon Creek. This is how the area got its name. The Reserve is managed by the BLM in partnership with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Activities and Experiences

  • Salmon Pass Trail Docent Guided Hiking Tours

Nearby Activities

  • Biking
  • Environmental Education
  • Hiking
  • Historic & Cultural Site
  • Interpretive Programs
  • Photography
  • Wildlife Viewing

Directions

To access the north end of Headwaters along the Elk River, take the Elk River Road exit off Highway 101, at the south end of Eureka. Turn right onto Elk River Road and drive approximately six miles to the Elk River Trailhead parking area.

Additional Information

    Photo Gallery

    • Headwaters Forest ReserveHiker in an old-growth redwood forest at the end of Little South Fork Elk River Trail.

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