It’s location on this stretch of Hwy. 20 is both alternatively known as “Redwood Highway” (from Grant’s Pass, Ore. to the Golden Gate Bridge), and, “South Main Street, Willits”. Willits’ being a Sister City of Reno, NV is something most Willits-area residents seem to be very happy with. Donated to Willits after it’s time of display in Reno, this arch found its current locale in 1995, (in time for the annual Independence Day parade) after being remodeled via private funding. It was the second arch to proclaim Reno as the “Biggest Little City in the World”, & the one that was representing their downtown between 1963 to 1987. It does need some iron fencing around its east mooring to prevent the theft of it’s informational plaques, as one was stolen & needs replacing.
They don’t make arches like they used to. The Willits arch is a great example. Find me an arch outside of Willits that is this colorful, sturdy, and appropriately placed. Find me an arch that is lit up under a cyclone rolling off the pacific ocean, unloading a river into the redwoods, so confidently proclaiming it’s town’s name and status.
Did you know this was originally a Welcome to Reno arch? It was redone and erected by ironworkers on this main drag of 101 through Willits. Close to Highway 20 to go to Fort Bragg and Highway 1, or just continue onward, North, to the Redwoods. This is a good area to stop and get coffee, a bite to eat, or other supplies as you travel…or even find a hotel for the night.
Subhankar Das
Nice entry arch to the city, Willits, gateway to the redwoods
Charles Winfield
It’s location on this stretch of Hwy. 20 is both alternatively known as “Redwood Highway” (from Grant’s Pass, Ore. to the Golden Gate Bridge), and, “South Main Street, Willits”. Willits’ being a Sister City of Reno, NV is something most Willits-area residents seem to be very happy with. Donated to Willits after it’s time of display in Reno, this arch found its current locale in 1995, (in time for the annual Independence Day parade) after being remodeled via private funding. It was the second arch to proclaim Reno as the “Biggest Little City in the World”, & the one that was representing their downtown between 1963 to 1987. It does need some iron fencing around its east mooring to prevent the theft of it’s informational plaques, as one was stolen & needs replacing.
Kris
They don’t make arches like they used to. The Willits arch is a great example. Find me an arch outside of Willits that is this colorful, sturdy, and appropriately placed. Find me an arch that is lit up under a cyclone rolling off the pacific ocean, unloading a river into the redwoods, so confidently proclaiming it’s town’s name and status.
It’s ok, I’ll wait.
Monica B.
Did you know this was originally a Welcome to Reno arch? It was redone and erected by ironworkers on this main drag of 101 through Willits. Close to Highway 20 to go to Fort Bragg and Highway 1, or just continue onward, North, to the Redwoods. This is a good area to stop and get coffee, a bite to eat, or other supplies as you travel…or even find a hotel for the night.