Willits, California

Laytonville, nestled in Mendocino County along the Redwood Highway, offers a glimpse into a California that moves at its own pace.

Laytonville, nestled at a comfortable 525 feet above sea level, owes its existence to the Redwood Highway, US 101. The road brought travelers and commerce through Long Valley after Frank Layton settled here in the 1870s, lending his name to the budding community. Before the highway, before Layton, the land was shaped by the Eel River. But the river's benevolence turned destructive in 1964, when devastating floods reshaped the landscape, leaving a mark on the town that is still felt today. The area's economy has always been tied to the land, from early logging and ranching to the more recent rise of cannabis cultivation, which provides significant employment for many residents. The Long Valley Health Center, a rural healthcare model, reflects a commitment to community values. Despite the changes, a sense of stepping back in time persists. Local stories of a Bigfoot-like creature roaming the nearby forests add to the unique character of this small town.