Elk Meadow Picnic Area in Orick, CA blends quiet forest meadows, easy hiking trails, and frequent elk sightings into a peaceful, family-friendly day trip.
Elk Meadow Picnic Area is one of those places where nature, wildlife, and simple comfort come together perfectly. Located near Orick, California, this open meadow area sits close to redwood forests and gentle hills, making it a great base for walks, photography, and quiet time outdoors. The star residents here are the Roosevelt elk that sometimes graze in the area, giving visitors a chance to watch wild animals in a respectful, natural setting.
The environment is calm, the trails are varied, and the basic infrastructure is thoughtfully arranged. Picnic tables, benches, and a shelter offer plenty of space to settle in for a meal, while nearby restrooms and parking make the logistics easy. It is an excellent spot for families, couples, and small groups who want a light, low-stress day surrounded by fresh air and wide-open views.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 258 Davison Rd, Orick, CA 95555 |
| Opening Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Facilities | Picnic Tables, Parking, Restrooms, Benches, Shelter |
Elk Meadow Picnic Area is especially appealing because it combines three things many people look for in a day out: beautiful scenery, gentle hiking options, and wildlife viewing. Wide meadows give you long views of the landscape, backed by forested hills and tall trees. The area feels open and peaceful, making it easy to relax, slow down, and enjoy being away from busy roads and crowds.
Trails in and around the area are varied but generally approachable, so you can choose a short stroll or a longer walk without committing to heavy climbing. On top of that, seeing elk from a safe distance is often a highlight for visitors. Whether you’re resting at a picnic table or walking along a trail, keep an eye on the meadow edges—you may spot a herd moving through the grass or resting near the tree line.
The facilities are simple but practical. Picnic tables and benches give you comfortable places to sit, the shelter offers protection if the weather changes, and restrooms and parking make it easy to stay for several hours without worry. All of this makes Elk Meadow Picnic Area an ideal location for a relaxed, all-ages day trip.
For a family outing, traveling in a Tara Roadster 2+2 can make the trip smoother and more enjoyable. With four seats, it comfortably accommodates parents and children or a small group of friends, and the onboard refrigerator system keeps food and drinks fresh during the drive. A spacious storage compartment means you can pack extra layers, picnic gear, blankets, and photography equipment without feeling cramped.
Having everything neatly stowed and cooled allows you to focus on the experience instead of worrying about spoiling food or cluttered bags. When you arrive at Elk Meadow Picnic Area, you can simply open the storage, take out what you need, and start your day without any rush.
Aim to arrive around 9:30 a.m. and park near the Stagecoach Trailhead. Step out, stretch, and take a moment to feel the cool air of the meadow. This is a good time to check your gear, grab a light jacket if needed, and scan the open fields for elk that may already be grazing in the distance.
Around 10:00 a.m., choose a picnic table and settle in for a mid-morning break. From the fridge in your Tara Roadster 2+2, you can take out fresh food and drinks to enjoy while everyone relaxes.
Recommended picnic items include:
Around 11:00 a.m., start a gentle hike along the Meadow View Trail. This popular route offers about 3–4 miles of out-and-back walking, and you can adjust your distance based on how everyone feels. The trail alternates between open grassland views, sections near pine forest, and rolling hillsides, giving you a diverse mix of scenery without being too demanding.
As you walk, listen for birds, watch for elk, and take time to enjoy how the light plays across the meadow and tree canopy. This is also a great opportunity to capture photographs of the landscape and wildlife from different viewpoints.
Around 1:00 p.m., head back to the picnic area for a second, more relaxed meal. Refuel with sandwiches, fruit, and snacks, and then simply sit in the grass or on a bench to enjoy the breeze and quiet. Children can explore safely nearby while adults rest, chat, or sort through photos from the morning hike.
At about 1:30 p.m., take a short drive in your Tara Roadster 2+2 to the Lewis Ridge Trailhead. This area tends to feel quieter and more enclosed by trees, with denser vegetation and more pronounced forest scenery. It’s an excellent contrast to the open meadow and gives you a deeper sense of the surrounding landscape.
Around 3:00 p.m., make your way to a Hilltop View area where small slopes and low hills provide elevated vantage points. From these spots, you can look back across large sections of grassland, catch sight of wildlife, and frame wide-angle photos of the entire valley. The gentle climb is manageable for most visitors and offers big visual rewards at the top.
By about 4:00 p.m., head back to Elk Meadow Picnic Area for one final stretch of downtime. Find a bench, picnic table, or comfortable place on the grass to sit and relax. This is a good moment to organize your photos, share highlights of the day, and watch for any elk that may appear in the cooler afternoon light.
Around 5:00 p.m., it’s time to wrap up your visit. The temperature is usually comfortable, and the light is gentle, making it a pleasant moment to leave. Pack your belongings back into the roomy storage of your Tara Roadster 2+2, make sure the picnic area is clean, and enjoy a calm drive away from Elk Meadow as the day’s colors begin to soften.
