Headlands Loop

The Headlands Loop at Russian Gulch State Park traverses dramatic coastal bluffs above the Pacific Ocean to reach the park signature geological feature, a collapsed sea cave known as the Devils Punchbowl that creates a dramatic blowhole when large swells drive water through the underground passage beneath the headland. The blowhole erupts with thunderous force during high surf conditions in winter and early spring, sending seawater and mist shooting upward through the circular opening in the headland roof in a display that draws crowds to the safety fence above the rim. The loop follows the bluff edge past multiple sea arches and sea stacks that rise from the crashing surf below, each colonized by nesting cormorants, pigeon guillemots, and common murres during the spring breeding season. Coastal scrub habitat on the headland blooms in spring with sea thrift, coyote brush, and coast buckwheat that sustains populations of Mission blue butterfly relatives and numerous species of native bee. Gray whale spouts are frequently visible offshore from November through May as whales migrate between their Arctic feeding grounds and Baja California lagoons. The headland location provides some of the best sunset viewing on the Mendocino coast, with the ocean extending unobstructed to the western horizon. The gentle terrain and well-maintained trail make this loop accessible for most visitors, and the spectacular scenery concentrated in the short distance makes it one of the best introductory hikes in the entire state park system along this coast.