Northern Inland

Towns Of Northern Inland

Willits CA
Laytonville CA
Covelo CA

Northern Inland Information

The tranquil Northern Inland region of Mendocino County puts forth a personality much different from the other parts of the county. This quiet area, devoid of major cities, is a place for nature-lovers to visit. Covered largely with government forest and protected land, Northern Inland is green and lush, opening its arms to travelers who enjoy activities like hiking and biking.

Located on Highway 101, Willits is the largest town in the Northern Inland region, though - at first glance - it certainly looks like a small town of days-gone-by. With a booming Main Street and plenty of friendly folks, Willits is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat or if you just want to spend some time outside the car on your trip north or south. There's plenty to see!

Willits is best known as The Gateway to the Redwoods as, just north of the town, you'll find the beginnings of the magnificent California Redwood Forest. Head north from Willits into Humboldt County and you'll come to the Avenue of the Giants, where guests will find a number of magnificent Redwood-related attractions including drive-thru trees, Redwood art galleries, and much more.

The town of Willits is also home to the Mendocino County Museum, dubbed a 'community storyteller,' educating guests as to the diverse ways of life enjoyed throughout the county. You'll learn about the Mendocino counter-culture, view an ancient stage coach, gather info about native 'son' Seabiscuit, or enjoy an exhibit about local Pomo Indian basketry.

The fascinating display, Roots of Motive Power, treats visitors to a look at some examples of antique steam-powered logging equipment, an integral part of the history of Willits. If you enjoy the arts, the impressive Willits Community Theater offers a year-round variety of live drama, comedy, music, dance, and mysteries, all performed by talented local artists. In addition, a handful of Native American casinos round out the recreational opportunities found here.

Willits lodging options include a variety of choices, from familiar chain hotels and motels to quaint B&Bs and Country Inns (where many beautiful weddings are held!) to peaceful campgrounds. Willits is also one of the few places in the county where you'll find familiar fast food restaurants as well as small, lovingly-tended, family-owned cafes, where dining is truly a pleasure.

If you're lucky enough to be visiting during one of Willits' many festivals and fairs, you'll find out what true community spirit is all about. Frontier Days, held on the 4th of July, is a true Wild West family event. There's another Community Festival in May as well, and for Thanksgiving, the whole town comes together to enjoy a sumptuous dinner!

Many visitors to Willits and surrounding areas fall in love with the area and eventually choose to make Mendocino County their home. Mendocino real estate, especially in towns like Willits, can be quite affordable and a home here means time away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.

About 22 miles north of Willits and also along Highway 101, the small farming town of Laytonville is a nice place to stop and enjoy the scenery. Laytonville lodging options are few, but all are neat and clean.

Laytonville is also the U.S. home of Earthdance Global Dance Festival for Peace, the world's largest simultaneous music and dance event, which takes place in mid-September. Northern California folk singer Kate Wolf also hosts an annual musical event here in her hometown as well, and the popular Laytonville Rodeo promises a rip-roarin' time for visitors of all ages.

Travel about 14 miles west of Laytonville and you'll find yourself in Admiral William Standley State Recreation Area, the perfect place for hiking, picnicking, and fishing for salmon and steelhead.

Northeast of Laytonville, visitors head to the tiny town of Covelo in the Round Valley, home to an amazing array of artists and galleries; excellent community theater; the annual Blackberry Festival, which includes wine tasting, arts and crafts, and live entertainment; and the Round Valley Community Rodeo.

An area rich in Native American history, Covelo also hosts an annual California Indian Day each September, featuring games, food, and excellent Native American entertainment. In the fall, the Round Valley Harvest Festival is a new tradition that's gaining popularity with visitors from surrounding communities.

Covelo is home to a few small motels and eateries, though plenty of additional lodging and dining options can be found within easy driving distance of this quaint town.