This interpretive trail features a bog ecosystem, specifically the carnivorous Pitcher plant. The trail is located just east of the Smith River NRA Visitor Center.

A short, easy stroll from the parking area off of Hwy. 199 takes you to a thriving community of California Pitcher Plants (Darlingtonia californica) growing in their unique bog environment. These unusual plants are able to live in wet, serpentine soils devoid of nitrogen and phosphorous because they obtain these nutrients from an unusual source: the insects and other small organisms that they trap in their Cobra-like hoods. Two viewing platforms provide access to the bog area. Please remain on the trail at all times. Picking or collecting Darlingtonia is illegal. At the Smith River NRA Visitor Center you may obtain a copy of the Darlingtonia Trail interpretive brochure which has information on this interesting plant and other plants that live along the trail.

Directions: From Crescent City, Take Hwy. 101 to the junction with Hwy. 199. Go east on 199 2.7 miles past the Visitor Center to mile post 17.9, the parking lot is on the left.

Elevation: 550 feet

Ending Elevation: 560 feet

Elevation Gain: 10 feet

Distance: 0.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

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