Timeless communities and rugged natural beauty define northern California's Mendocino County. Country highways connect Mendocino's five diverse regions, but Mendocino County has always been about "the road not traveled," both literally and metaphorically.

Before (not?) going there, here are a few Mendocino County facts and figures: Mendocino is California's 12th largest county, bounded to the south by Sonoma County, the north by Humboldt and Trinity counties, and to the west by more than 100 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline.

The Coast Range, with elevations from 2,000 to 7,000 feet, runs through the middle of the county, as does Highway 101. A large proportion of Mendocino County is covered by trees, primarily redwoods and fir, many protected in parks for visitors to appreciate. Vineyards and organic farms are also found across the county. Climates range from the steady cool coast to seasonal fluctuations in the inland valleys, where temperatures range between the 90s and the 30s.

Intimate inns, champagne-style sparkling wines, ideal settings for romantic getaways and spectacular scenery have enticed travelers to Mendocino County for generations. Families also find plenty to do here. National forests, the Ecological Staircase and Russian River habitats draw bird watchers and naturalists. Gardeners flock to rhododendron and azalea nurseries, Fetzer Vineyard's Valley Oaks gardens and the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Campers find coastside campgrounds as well as inland spots next to the Eel River and Lake Mendocino. Art galleries and antique shops throughout the county offer classic California Countryside finds.

Outdoor enthusiasts can fish in streams or from ocean charter boats, paddle canoes and glide kayaks, and bike loamy redwood trails. For something truly "country," there are rodeos in Anderson Valley, Covelo and Willits. Horseback riding and beachcombing for ocean-tumbled treasures add to the long list of favorite "Mendo" pastimes.

North Mendocino County is Mendocino's least populated and wildest region. Everywhere one turns are examples of California's most authentic old-time communities. Willits is home to the Mendocino County Museum, a favorite of train buffs and fans of Pomo and Yuki basket weaving. Numerous campsites are located next to deep cold rivers with refreshing swimming holes. Organic farms and orchards abound in Round Valley, also home to northern California's largest Indian reservation where the Tribal Administration Center features exhibits of baskets, arrowheads and stone tools.

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