Smith River scenic byway is in northwest California, near Crescent City. The byway begins at the intersection of US 199 and US 101 and ends at the Oregon state line. It is 39 miles long and follows US 199, a two-lane paved road safe for travel by all types of vehicles. The byway is open year-round although poor driving conditions may exist in winter.
The scenic byway travels through a mixed conifer forest as it crosses the Six Rivers National Forest and Smith River National Recreation Area. Middle Fork of the Smith River flows next to the byway and is popular with rafting enthusiasts as well as anglers. Among the fish inhabiting the river are Chinook salmon, steelhead trout, and rainbow trout. Several access points are along the byway. The river is part of the Wild and Scenic River program and is the only undammed watershed in California.
Smith River provides access to a variety of recreational activities. There are several developed campgrounds directly along the byway. Near the western end is Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. The campground here has over 100 campsites set among the giant trees. Those interested in hiking, backpacking, or horseback riding will find several trails throughout the area. Trails range from under one mile long to more than 15 miles.