Translating from the Native American Pomo language as “deep valley”, Ukiah serves as the seat of California’s Mendocino County. It has long been a hub for the surrounding agricultural communities, with everything from wine grapes to apricots and hops grown here. In response to the over-logging of its redwoods in the mid-20th century, Ukiah began attracting artists and creatives.
Things to do in Ukiah
One of Ukiah’s most important architectural landmarks is the Sun House, a Craftsman-style residence that was built by artist Grace Hudson in 1911. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is located adjacent to the Grace Hudson Museum. Admire the Pomo basketry on display and browse the changing exhibitions before exploring the native plantings of the Wild Gardens.
Sprawling west of Ukiah is Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve, which protects groves of coastal redwoods, riparian meadows and a tributary of the Big River. Follow the short loop trail that leads through its soaring redwoods and visit what was once the world’s tallest known tree, the 112-metre-high Mendocino Tree.
On the other side of Ukiah is the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas, a monastery that was founded by Hsuan Hua in the 1970s. It is now one of the largest Buddhist communities in the Western Hemisphere, with a highlight of the complex being the Jeweled Hall of 10,000 Buddhas. Both monks and visitors gather to eat healthy vegan food at the Jyun Kang Restaurant.
Getting around Ukiah
Ukiah is around an hour’s drive from Santa Rosa and Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. Long-distance buses connect to Ukiah and the city centre is compact enough to explore on foot. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the region.