Waluplh-Lighthouse Ranch Interpretive Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Historical Significance · Views

Vault toilet, trash, and recycling are on site.

When the Humboldt Bay Lighthouse (1856) on the North Spit was found to be far too low to use as a signal, a new lighthouse (1892) was built here to replace it. The lens was taken from the old tower and placed in the new one and light shown from this new place until 1975. In 2017, the old Coast Guard Reservation was added to the California Coastal National Monument and the trail with interpretive signage was built. If you come here, you'll see the expansive views out over the ocean that made this a good spot to place a light. You'll not, however, see the lighthouse. That was moved to Woodley Island in 1987 where it can be seen from the Eureka Waterfront Trail or even visited at the marina.

The trail itself is a nearly flat gravel loop. The signs along it's length teach about the area history and conservation efforts. A bathroom and trash are provided next to the parking area. In spring, the lighthouse keeper's flowers still bloom in the old garden and around the edge of the bluff. The area is for day use only and open 1 hour before sunrise to 1 hour after sunset.