From Ashlan, OR to Avenue of the Giants to ?????

Question

Hello,

We are from San Fernando Valley and we will be visiting Crater Lake from Ashland, OR then Redwood National Park particularly Avenue of the Giants. We will be staying in Humboldt County. Going back home is more than 10 hours drive and we're planning to visit another place to check out and get some rest. Can you recommend which place to check out? We will be driving in first week of August.

Answer

Hi there,

Your trip sounds wonderful! After visiting Crater Lake and Avenue of the Giants, you’re in a great spot to explore some more of Northern California and Southern Oregon. Given your route and the fact that you're looking for a good spot to rest before tackling the long drive back, here are a few suggestions for places to check out, all of which offer a nice mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and scenic beauty.

Here are a few options that are perfect for a stopover:

Eureka, CA: Just a short drive from Avenue of the Giants, Eureka is a charming Victorian town known for its beautifully preserved historic architecture, including the famous Carson Mansion. It’s a great place to stop, stretch your legs, and explore the quaint downtown area. The town also offers a few great places to dine and relax. You can visit the Carson Mansion or check out Redwood Discovery Museum if you have time for a quick stop.
Mendocino, CA: If you want a little longer stop, Mendocino is an excellent option about 2-3 hours south of the Avenue of the Giants. It’s a coastal town with a great artsy vibe, stunning ocean views, and a beautiful Victorian downtown. It’s a perfect spot to relax, do some light hiking, or just enjoy the coastal beauty. You can visit Mendocino Headlands State Park for some scenic walks along the cliffs and enjoy a peaceful night by the ocean.
Point Reyes National Seashore, CA: If you’re looking for an amazing coastal experience and a place to rest in the northern part of California, Point Reyes is an amazing spot. It’s about 5-6 hours south of Humboldt County but is well worth the drive if you love scenic hikes, wildlife watching, and amazing coastal views. You can visit the famous Point Reyes Lighthouse or hike along the cliffs, where you might even spot some whales, seals, and other wildlife. Point Reyes also offers some charming B&Bs for a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Willits, CA: If you want to stay closer to the Redwood area, Willits is a great little town to break up the drive. It’s about 2 hours south of Avenue of the Giants, and although it’s smaller, it offers some nice spots to relax and grab a bite. Willits is known for its scenic landscapes and is a great place to rest before continuing your journey. The town is also home to the Willits Railroad Depot, and you can explore some local art galleries.
Clear Lake, CA: For a slightly longer, more scenic route, you could head east toward Clear Lake, a large, serene freshwater lake surrounded by mountains. It’s about 4 hours south of Avenue of the Giants, and it’s an excellent spot for a peaceful evening by the water. You can enjoy a relaxing evening, take a boat ride, or explore some of the area’s natural trails. The Clear Lake State Park offers great views and calm waters for unwinding.

As for the best time to drive in early August, it can get quite warm, especially in inland areas like Mendocino or Clear Lake, so be prepared for some heat, especially in the more desert-like areas of Northern California. But for the most part, the coastal areas will have more mild and pleasant temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities. Make sure to check the weather conditions for each stop, as the Pacific Northwest can sometimes have fog or cooler evenings even during summer.

Ultimately, your choice of a stopover depends on how far you want to drive before resting. Mendocino offers the most picturesque coastal experience, while Willits and Eureka offer easy-to-access charm. Either way, you’re in for a beautiful part of the world!

Safe travels, and enjoy your trip!