This trail is a very well maintained pathway that serves as Jug Handle's unique natural stairway. This trail showcases an astounding array of diverse environments.

As you venture from the coastal edge and travel 2.5 miles inland, you'll encounter three distinct marine terraces. Each terrace, formed 100,000 years before the one below it due to tectonic uplift, presents a world of its own. The lowest terrace boasts a serene prairie landscape, the second is adorned with majestic pines, and the third unveils a fascinating pygmy forest where knee-high trees have thrived for possibly several decades.

🕊️ 𝑻𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒓

February 19, 2022

Hiking

This trail takes the visitor on a tour of the geological updrift from the coast to the Pygmy Forest two and a half mile inland. This marine terrace sequence illustrates …

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1. Ecological Staircase Trail — Jug Handle State Natural Reserve

5.09km

01:21

50m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

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2. Jug Handle Beach – Pygmy Forest loop from Jug Handle State Natural Reserve

7.57km

02:02

90m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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Informations

Distance 1.30 km

Uphill 20 m

Downhill 10 m

Weather

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Saturday 7 February

17°C

6°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h

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Location: Mendocino County, California, United States

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Ecological Staircase Trail

1. Ecological Staircase Trail — Jug Handle State Natural Reserve

2. Jug Handle Beach – Pygmy Forest loop from Jug Handle State Natural Reserve

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