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Redwood trees are already a natural wonder, and this untouched forest along the Sonoma coast is 730 acres of stunning, enormous, canopies that are as tall as a 32-story building. The enchanting nature is part of the biggest redwoods on private lands in Sonoma County (about three hours north of San Francisco) and is home to all sorts of thriving wildlife.
The magical site is home to both ancient and newer trees, appearing largely untouched and unaffected by human development. Amongst the sprawling land lies the oldest coast redwood south of Mendocino County and the widest coast redwood that sits south of Humboldt County, a living being that’s around 1,640 years old, with a trunk wide enough for two cars to drive down the surface.
Visitors can catch a glimpse of the diverse wildlife such as the imperiled marbled murrelet, a seabird that nests amongst the trees, the northern spotted owl, Townsend’s big-eared bat, and various species of salamanders that reside near the stream and Gualala River.
The Harold Richardson Redwoods Reserve has been in the family for almost 100 years, passing from heir to heir, some of whom collaborated with the Save the Redwoods League to protect the land. In June of 2018, Save the Redwoods permanently protected the reserve and are planning on opening the grounds to the public so visitors can walk along the hiking trails and take in the natural beauty.
League President and CEO, Sam Hodder, likened the oasis to an ancient civilization. “We are grateful for the Richardson family’s foresight in stewarding this forest with such care and allowing us the opportunity to save it. The League envisions stewarding this property as a public park in the future for all to enjoy — the first new old-growth redwood park in a generation. Harold Richardson Redwoods Reserve, named to honor the legacy of the family’s patriarch, will be the newest gem on California’s crown of redwood parks, providing inspiration, recreation, and clean air and water.”
With help from the League and the Harold Richardson Redwoods Reserve, generations to come can witness the centuries-old redwoods and see them thrive in a beautifully preserved and peaceful setting.
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