RCLC’s Protected Places
The Mendonoma region is a place of stunning scenic beauty and unique wildlife. This land contains some of the rarest and most varied habitats found on earth. It’s part of the California Floristic Province, named by scientists as one of earth’s 25 conservation “hot spots.” Whether you’re a long-time local or a weekend visitor we invite you to get to know RCLC’s protected places—we guarantee you’ll fall in love and return again and again.
Cooks Beach
Located just north of Gualala, Cooks Beach offers dramatic ocean views and access to a dynamic cove beach featuring seasonal streams and striking rock formations.
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Gualala Bluff Trail
A popular trail overlooking the Gualala River and estuary. Harbor seals, river otters and myriad birds are seen here along with migrating whales. Great for a quick stroll.
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Hearn Gulch
Hearn Gulch features wild and scenic coastal bluffs and a secluded pocket beach with surrounding volcanic rock formations and a narrow sea tunnel.
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Mill Bend Preserve
Mill Bend features woodland, scrub, river and estuary habitats critical to a wide range of plant and animal life including salmon and bald eagles. A must-see!
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Gualala Cemetery
The final resting place for some of the area’s first European inhabitants, with lovely 19th century headstones sure to fascinate history buffs.
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Protected Places Map
Click on property name in the map below to read about and see a map of that protected place:
“I am so grateful for RCLC’s tireless efforts to bring public access to beautiful portions of our coast. As an avid hiker, the trails they develop beckon me. Hearn Gulch, Cooks Beach, the Gualala Bluff Trail and now Mill Bend Preserve are brought to us all by RCLC. You have my deepest thanks.”
–Jeanne Jackson, author of Mendonoma Sightings
Photo credits: Banner video – Joel Chaban, Cooks Beach – Querido Galdo; Gualala Bluff Trail – Ethan Applegarth; Hearn Gulch – Anne Hanlon; Mill Bend Preserve – David Bradbrook ; Gualala Cemetery – RCLC Archives