Taking School Outside-Montgomery Woods

Nestled within the beautiful landscapes of Ukiah, California, lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored - the Montgomery Woods State National Reserve. This State Reserve is an ode to the awe-inspiring beauty of redwood forests. Student Carson T. shares that the hike is really fun, and emphasizes the vastness of the surrounding Redwood Trees:

"I love Montgomery Woods. It was a really fun trail and hike with BIG trees. Many had survived a fire and had caves you could climb into. They are really beautiful and are very tall. Every leaf on the redwood trees collects water from fog and the bark is very thick and helps it survive fires. It is fire-resistant."

A Glimpse into Montgomery Woods

Montgomery Woods State National Reserve is a short drive from downtown Ukiah and spans 2,743 acres. At the heart of Montgomery Woods is a breathtaking grove of ancient redwoods, some of which are over 1,000 years old and reach heights of more than 300 feet!

Montgomery Woods is not only home to towering redwoods but also a diverse range of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the elusive northern spotted owl, black-tailed deer, raccoons, and an array of bird species. If you're lucky, you may even spot a Pacific giant salamander, a creature that calls these lush forests home.

In spring, the forest floor comes alive with colorful wildflowers, and in the fall, the redwoods cast a warm, golden glow as the leaves change color. It's a year-round destination with something new to offer in every season.

We aren't sure about you, but Carson has really inspired us to take our studies outdoors!