Orick Elk Meadow Viewing: National Park Service Urges 25-Yard Minimum Distance

ORICK, Calif. — Roosevelt elk can often be seen in meadows near the southern portion of Redwood National and State Parks, but approaching them for a photograph can be dangerous. The National Park Service recommends staying at least 25 yards (75 feet) from elk and giving them even more room when they appear agitated.

Where is the viewing area?

NPS identifies Elk Meadow Day Use Area north of Orick along Davison Road as a convenient place to look for grazing herds. The area has parking, interpretive signs, picnic facilities, restrooms, drinking water and access to Trillium Falls and other trails. Elk Prairie on Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is another commonly used viewing location.

What to do when elk are near the road

Use binoculars or a camera’s zoom instead of approaching an animal. Do not stop in traffic or trespass onto private property. The park advises keeping dogs on a leash where they are permitted; pets are prohibited on many trails. Female elk can be especially defensive around calves in late spring, while males may behave aggressively during the late-summer and fall mating period.

Official sources: National Park Service — Watch Wild Elk; NPS — Elk Meadow Day Use Area.

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