Little Darby

Two people stand on a grassy hillside in the King Range Wilderness, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT

Kayaker enjoying the California Coastal National Monument

California



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Arcata Field Office

Little Darby Nature Trail

Construction of a new footbridge, trail improvement work and replacement of a storm-damaged culvert is complete at the Little Darby Nature Trail.

The project will improve water quality by reducing reduce sediment flow into Little Creek that resulted from winter storm damage.

New kiosk at the beginning of the Little Darby Nature Trail. New trail after construction, view form the parkng lot headed down to the bridge. New bridge across Little Creek along the Little Darby Nature Trail.

Now that construction is complete look for new interpretive signs along the trail. These signs replace the current self guided trail brochure. Students from Humboldt State University spent the semester designing the graphics and text for 8 new interpretive signs at Little Darby. Students from Willits Charter School created artwork inspired by their field class that was held at Little Darby each Friday in the winter and spring of 2012.

Trek Lightly through the Diverse Communities of Little Darby Interpretive sign to be installed in November 2012. Wildlife Thrives in the Forest interpretive sign to be installed at Little Darby in November 2012. People and Nature share a future at Little Darby interpretive sign to be installed along the trail November 2012.

If you haven't been to Little Darby...

Five miles east of Willits you will find a 1-mile loop trail that takes you through 3 distinct communities. The Little Darby Nature Trail begins in the riparian community of Little Creek, a tributary to the Eel River. The Douglas-fir tree plant community towers over the riparian, leading you through a shaded forest floor. At the top of your climb through the forest you will be rewarded with vast views as you enter the dry chaparral community.

Hiking, picnicking, dog walking and birdwatching are a few of the activities you can experience at Little Darby. It is important to respect the rights of other visitors as you enjoy your time.

Directions

From Willits, CA drive east on Commercial Street, which becomes Hearst-Willits Road (County Road 306). Continue east on Canyon Road (County road 308) and the Little Darby parking area will be on your left.