Trees far outnumber people in Philo, a tiny census-designated place in Mendocino County. With a population that doesn’t exceed 500, nature takes center stage here. Discover lush forests and equally lush vineyards in Philo and the surrounding area.
Find Philo in the heart of the Anderson Valley. In the past, it was a redwood logging community full of timber cutting and saw mills. Today, the land is mostly filled with vineyards. Critics all over the world consistently laud Anderson Valley’s wine.
Learn about the history of the area at the Little Red Schoolhouse, run by the Anderson Valley Historical Society. Step back in time as you tour exhibits in the 1891-era schoolhouse. Learn about Boontling, the unique local folk language that was once widely spoken throughout the valley.
Walk among the redwoods in Hendy Woods State Park. Be prepared to feel dwarfed as you surround yourself by trees that are over 300 feet (90 meters) tall and over 1,000 years old. Explore 5 miles (8 kilometers) of woodland trails, including the wheelchair-accessible Discovery Trail.
Indian Creek meets the Navarro River in Philo. Follow the Navarro River all the way to where it spills into the Pacific Ocean or go rafting and kayaking upstream of Rancheria Creek. On the southern shore of Indian Creek, relax in Indian Creek Park. Build a campfire and sleep under the stars in one of its many campsites.
No trip to Philo is complete without a visit to Navarro Vineyards and Winery, a crown jewel among the Anderson Valley’s many vineyards. Taste some of its famous vintages or tour its rolling vineyards. Learn all about the varieties of grapes produced in the region. Understand the vineyard’s environmentally conscious practices and enjoy lunch, with rolling fields as your backdrop.
Cornelius Prather founded Philo in 1863. It was named after Philomena, his favorite cousin. Between whimsical facts like this, stunning natural surroundings and delightful vineyards, Philo will surprise you at every turn.
