Mendocino County

Mendocino County is an administrative unit on the North Coast of California covering redwood forests, Pacific shores, rivers, and agricultural valleys. The area extends across different elevations from sea level to forested hills inland.

The administrative unit formed in 1850 as one of California's original areas after statehood. It gained independent administration only in 1859 after nine years under Sonoma oversight.

Nine reservations of indigenous communities lie within the borders and contribute to the region's life today. Visitors notice this presence through place names, cultural events, and local craft traditions.

The local transit authority connects cities such as Ukiah, Fort Bragg, and Willits through regular bus routes. Distances between coast and inland require planning, as mountain roads vary in accessibility depending on the season.

Multiple river systems such as the Noyo and Navarro cross protected areas and create particular climate zones. These local conditions favor wine production in valleys that differ markedly from coastal locations.

Location: California

Inception: February 18, 1850

Capital city: Ukiah

Part of: North Coast

Shares border with: Humboldt County, Sonoma County, Glenn County, Trinity County, Tehama County, Lake County

Website: https://mendocinocounty.org

GPS coordinates: 39.43000,-123.43000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:04