Orick - (10.4 miles; O&B) - Dolason Prairie Trail

Bald Hills Road
Orick, California 95555
Humboldt County

The Dolason Prairie Trail is very peaceful and one where you're likely to be one of very few other people on the trail.  It's difficult in that it is long, has quite a bit of elevation change and the 5.2 mile uphill hike is on the return trip ... but it's pretty awesome and definitely worth adventuring.  
The main attraction for hikers (and photographers) is Dolason Barn which sits naturally on the hillside just a short distance from the parking lot.  You may see some people in between the parking lot and the barn but as you cross the meadow where you find the barn and enter the woods, things will chill out quite a bit. 
The first half of the hike is almost all downhill and leads to Redwood Creek; a nice spot to relax and play in the water (May-July).  
The hike back up is difficult but it's beautiful so plan on taking your time and enjoying what few others have the motivation to go see.  You've earned it. 
Distance: 10.5 miles; out and back.  
Degree of Difficulty:  Difficult.  You're going to get peace and serenity the whole trail but you're going to have to work for it a little on the way back up. 
Dogs: No
Camping: 
There is plenty of camping in the area.  Check out our Camping section for more places to set-up.
How to get there:
From Highway 101 in either direction, take Bald Hills Road east (it only goes east).  Follow the road for 11.5 miles and the trailhead will be on your right.   There will be signs that are easy to spot.
More info:
There are restrooms and picnic tables in the parking area.  The parking area has some great views and is a chill place to enjoy some post-hike food & drink. 
*Please pack out all your trash.  Keep Humboldt Beautiful
Other things to do in the area:
There are some incredible Beaches in the area.  When you're hungry, our Dining section has some options both north and south of the trail.  If you're looking to get on the road, our Road Trip section has fun things to do no matter what direction the wind takes you. 
*Click on the photos to enlarge them