The Mendocino Land Trust works to conserve and preserve our county’s natural resources including farmland, forests, wildlife habitat, open space, scenic vistas, and watersheds.
In efforts to share their mission and Mendocino County’s natural world, Mendocino Land Trust has given us permission to share their Trail Tuesday posts where their intern Mia highlights some of our local hiking trails.
Consider supporting their mission by donating to them here:
Hey, it’s Tuesday Trailday! Today we are featuring Old Smith Ranch trail. This charming preserve along the Ten Mile River north of Fort Bragg is a perfect location for when you are looking for a peaceful stroll or a place to sit and bird watch OR nature journal.
And nature journaling is exactly what we did at our July MLT Outdoors Social Club. Local artist Mary-Ellen Campbell Book Artist gave a fantastic introduction to nature journaling in the picnic area. Participants were astounded by how every natural thing – be it a leaf, a stick, or bone, reveals all kinds of mysteries when you look closely.
After the introduction, part of the group headed down the trail through tanoak forest, made a stop at Betty’s Bench to admire the sketch-worthy view, and then strolled along the estuary looking for artistic inspiration.
10/10 highly recommend! Find maps and details about this and 32 other spots to adventure on MLT’s website.
https://www.mendocinolandtrust.org/…/old-smith-ranch…/
