My husband and I recently attended a large group event in the Mendocino National Forest. It was atypical of our usual activities and yet enjoyable, as the group was vivacious and eclectic. One commonality among us was that as Land Rover owners, most have become Land Rover mechanics rather than succumb to the inevitably outlandish prices of service centers.
It was our first trip to the Mendocino National Forest and our impressions were diverse. The Forest is highly regulated, due in large part to the number of interest groups vying for its use. From the frequency and markings of usage trails, it is evident that the National Forest Service strives to allocate use fairly and accurately. Such rigors make the Mendocino National Forest an ideal destination for families with young children who are seeking an outing with manageable risk.
To our delight, portions of the Mendocino National Forest were very different from other wilderness areas we have visited. This photograph alludes to the steep terrain and beautiful vistas that captivated us and will undoubtedly garner our return.
Where God Takes Me 
Where is this? Looks really cool!
MNF is located a few hours NW of Sacramento. There is also access closer to the coast, on the Mendocino side. If you’re in the area, it’s worth a trip. 🙂
So green! Is the drought finished or did it not affect this area?
The drought is ongoing so I would guess that the green we’re seeing is temporary, attributable to some –but not normal or needed–levels of rain. By contrast we additionally saw many acres of the Mendocino National Forest which were burned in the 2012 fire. They were sort of ethereal in the mist and also beautiful in their way.
I love how you open a window for us into your adventures. That forest is a favorite of mine and I’ve spent some memorable time traversing its hillsides.
Oh wonderful! Do you have a favorite road or trail? We stayed at Cedar Camp and explored the area around Letts Lake and Goat Mountain, as well as taking M5 to where it dumps out above Fouts Springs. That road is gorgeous and quite dramatic with its snaking sheer drops and recurring views.
I’m more familiar with the north end, Howard Lake. Haven’t been in a few years though, staying closer to home.
So pretty and such a nice composition! Blessings, Robyn
Thank you! I appreciate your very nice note. Kindly, Vivian
A lovely photograph of what looks like a very beautiful place Vivian.
Thank you Chillbrook! And it is indeed beautiful, I think you would love it. 🙂
What an amazing forest. I did some research and found out that is the only national forest in the state of California without a major paved road entering it. It takes up a huge area!!! And you are right – this forest is controlled to ensure it will continue. Great post!
I read that tidbit about the paved road too. MNF is worth preserving, it’s really very unique in terms of terrain, at least as far as Northern California is concerned. I’m curious to see what the coastal side looks like, I hope we’ll get to that next time. Thanks for stopping by!
Always love stopping by and tagging along on your adventures…
And you are always, always a welcome guest. 🙂
Thanks for posting this! I spent two weeks in a cabin at Mendocino National Forest—my honeymoon! Haven’t been back since, so I really enjoyed seeing the landscape.
What a lovely place in which to honeymoon! The scenery really is romantic. Thank you for sharing your special context, I’m delighted that you enjoyed the photo.
absolutely beautiful photographs. my girls and i are super horse crazy these days. i wanted you to know that i posted a link to your blog from mine. hope that’s ok.