Summertime In Willits: Your Gateway to Redwoods, Rodeos & Relaxation!
Why Willits, Ca Belongs On Your Summer Travel List!
When summer rolls into Mendocino County, the town of Willits comes alive with blue skies, redwood adventures, old-fashioned rodeos, and ice cream-sticky smiles. Whether you're planning a weekend escape or a longer road trip through Northern California, Willits is your launchpad into some of the best that nature and nostalgia have to offer.
Here’s why guests love spending summer in Willits—and why they return year after year.
🌲 1. Step Into the Redwoods
Willits is known as the “Gateway to the Redwoods,” and for good reason. Just minutes from town, you can find yourself beneath towering coastal redwoods in places like Jackson Demonstration State Forest, with miles of hiking trails, birdwatching, and hidden picnic spots. Breathe deep. It's the kind of forest that makes the world go quiet.
🚂 2. Ride the Legendary Skunk Train
Hop aboard the historic Skunk Train, one of California’s most iconic rail experiences. Departing right from Willits, the vintage train winds through tunnels, over bridges, and deep into redwood country. Kids love it. Adults feel like kids again. And the views? Unforgettable.
🎡 3. Celebrate Small-Town Summer
Each July, Willits Frontier Days kicks up its boots for the longest-running rodeo in California. Enjoy a week of Western flair—parades, pancake breakfasts, gymkhana events, cowboy poetry, carnival rides, and fireworks that light up the valley. It's the kind of Americana you thought had disappeared.
And just beyond the rodeo grounds, you’ll find:
- Local artisan fairs
- Free concerts in the park
- Outdoor movie nights
- Car and tractor shows
- And spontaneous joy wherever the day takes you
🐴 4. Visit Seabiscuit’s Historic Ranch
Fans of racing history (or beautiful ranchlands) won’t want to miss a visit to Ridgewood Ranch, the final home of champion racehorse Seabiscuit. Just south of town, this peaceful property offers guided tours, redwood walks, and glimpses into a slice of American legend.
🛶 5. Adventure Outside
Looking for something active? In and around Willits you can:
- Swim in the Eel River
- Hike or bike local trails
- Kayak calm stretches of water
- Stargaze from quiet forest clearings
- Or simply bring a book and laze by the creek under the trees
🎞️ 6. Take in Culture & History
Willits might be a small town, but it packs in personality. Visit:
- Mendocino County Museum to uncover the region’s pioneer past
- Roots of Motive Power for antique steam equipment and trains
- The Noyo Theatre, a restored 1940s movie palace now showing indie flicks and hosting community events
- Plus: don’t forget to snap a photo with the town’s 20-foot cowboy statue, “Cowboy Willy,” and stroll beneath the original “Gateway to the Redwoods” arch, once located in Reno
🍔 7. Eat Like a Local
No summer trip is complete without good eats. Try the beloved 101 Drive-In for classic burgers and shakes, Northspur Brewing for great beer and small bites, La Siciliana for amazing pizza and pasta's or enjoy Willits' locally owned coffee shops, brewpubs, and diners where you're always treated like a regular—even on your first visit.
- 🏡 Stay with Us at Inn at Baechtel Creek
After a full day of exploring, come home to comfort at the Inn at Baechtel Creek.
- Relax by our pool bordering the Baechtel Creek.
- Browse our shops, restaurants, and the Skunk Train station
- Enjoy thoughtful touches and warm, small-town hospitality
Whether you’re here for the redwoods, the rodeo, or the quiet peace of a summer evening, the Inn at Baechtel Creek is your home base for the season.
🌻 Ready for Your Summer Escape?
Book now to reserve your stay during Willits Frontier Days or your redwood retreat. Summer in Willits is waiting—and so are we.
