Rural living behind the redwood curtain
Redway is a rural community tucked away in the auburn-tinged redwood forests of southern Humboldt County. Small and remote, it’s a popular spot for people who want to be immersed in boundless natural scenery far from the bustling cities and suburbs of the California coast. “I’ve lived in southern Humboldt my whole life, and I’m still blown away by how beautiful it is,” says Somer Wallan, owner and broker of Madrone Realty. The town is home to around 1,200 residents, and has a small commercial strip with restaurants, shops and a grocery store.
This region of Northern California was once known as the epicenter of California’s illicit cannabis growing operations, but that industry was largely wiped out after the state legalized cannabis cultivation in 2018. County officials are now looking to outdoor tourism to help support the local economy, since many growers and farm workers have left. Wallen says the people moving to the area today include remote workers, people buying second homes, and those who want to live in a place that’s cooler and less impacted by climate change than central and southern California. “They’re coming for the redwood trees, the rivers and the clean air and water,” Wallan says.
Abundant nature and outdoor activities
Redway sits within a bend in Eel River, surrounded by tall mountains and seemingly impenetrable woodlands that stretch for miles in every direction. Much of the surrounding landscape is protected by state and national forests, including Dewitt Redwoods State Natural Preserve, an old-growth redwood forest right across the river. The nearest major hiking spot is Humboldt Redwoods State Park, which spans 53,000 acres and features the world’s largest old-growth redwood forest. Hikes in the park range from 30-minute loops to difficult hikes of more than 10 miles across steep, rugged terrain. Swimming, fishing, canoeing and kayaking are perennial pastimes in Redway because of its riverside locale.
A mix of homes on small-town streets
Homes in Redway are situated close together on quiet residential streets. If it were anywhere else, it might feel like a midcentury style suburb, but lush, woodsy surroundings and mountain views give it a rarefied, country ambiance. Small yards are overflowing with mature vegetation, trees and small gardens. Ranch homes and eclectic, custom-built homes built between the 1940s and 60s are the most common home styles here. While some have been well-kept and renovated, others may need some improvements. Prices for these homes typically range from $250,000 to $500,000, depending on the home's size and condition. There are also some larger, newer homes here that list for between $500,000 and $700,000.
Shops and dining on Redwood Drive
Redway’s shops, restaurants and grocers are found on Redwood Drive. The Lost Frenchman is where locals can stop off for wood-fired pizza on an outdoor patio that faces the redwood-covered slopes. Next door is Deb’s Great American Hamburger, an old-school burger joint that’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Residents looking for groceries can stop at Shop Smart or head a few miles south to Garberville to Ray’s Food Place. Redwood Drive is also home to Mateel Community Center, a local concert venue that brings a wide range of touring musicians to the area and serves as a meeting place for local boards and commissions.
Public schools in Redway and Miranda
Students start their education at Redway Elementary School, which is within walking distance of many homes. Students will have to travel about 10 miles north to Miranda to attend Miranda Junior High School and South Fork High School. All three schools earn B-minus ratings from Niche. South Fork High is known for its athletics programs, including its well-ranked varsity football squad.
Easy access to the Pacific Coast Highway
Redway is about 2 miles from State Route 101, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, a celebrated roadway that traverses the California coastline. From there, it’s about 60 miles to Eureka, the largest city in Humboldt County, and 150 miles from Santa Rosa, the nearest major city. Residents in need of medical care have easy access to Jerold Phelps Community Hospital in nearby Garberville. The closest major medical center is Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Eureka.
Increased risk of wildfires
Southern Humboldt is at a high risk for wildfires. In August 2020, the August Complex fire burned more than 1 million acres and burned more than 900 structures in the region. Wildfires are becoming increasingly common in California due to global warming.
