If you’ve ever dreamed of walking among the tallest trees on Earth, Redwood National and State Parks in northern California should be at the top of your travel list. This awe-inspiring region offers more than just towering redwoods – it’s a sanctuary of natural beauty, coastal vistas, and unforgettable adventures.
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| Redwood National and State Parks |
Where Nature Reaches for the Sky
Redwood National and State Parks protect nearly 40,000 acres of ancient redwood forest, home to some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. Some redwoods here stretch over 350 feet tall and have been standing for over 2,000 years. It's like stepping into another world – quiet, misty, and reverent.
The parks are a unique partnership between the National Park Service and the California State Parks system, encompassing Redwood National Park as well as Del Norte Coast, Jedediah Smith, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks.
What to Do in the Parks
🌲 1. Walk Among Giants
Explore iconic trails like:
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Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail – An easy loop trail with elevated views and dense redwood groves.
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Tall Trees Grove – A more remote trail that requires a permit, but rewards you with some of the tallest trees in the world.
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Stout Grove – Located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, this grove is a photographer’s paradise.
🦌 2. Spot Wildlife
The parks are home to Roosevelt elk, black bears, migratory birds, and even gray whales off the coast. Keep your eyes peeled on forest trails and open prairies.
🏞️ 3. Scenic Drives
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Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway – A 10-mile drive through old-growth redwoods in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.
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Howland Hill Road – A narrow dirt road through some of the most pristine forest in the area, including access to Stout Grove.
🏖️ 4. Enjoy the Coast
Not all the beauty is inland – explore Gold Bluffs Beach, hike to Fern Canyon (featured in Jurassic Park 2), or visit Klamath River Overlook for sweeping ocean views.
Tips for Visiting
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Dress in layers – The climate can change quickly, especially near the coast.
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Bring snacks and water – Services can be limited in remote areas.
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Leave no trace – Help protect this fragile ecosystem by packing out all trash and staying on marked trails.
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Check for permits – Some trails, like Tall Trees Grove and Gold Bluffs Beach, may require free permits.
Best Time to Visit
Spring through fall offers the most accessible weather, but summer (June–September) is ideal for dry trails and coastal views. Winter brings fewer crowds but also more rain and muddy conditions.
Getting There
The parks span a large area along the northern California coast. Crescent City and Orick are good base towns, and the parks are reachable via U.S. Highway 101. The nearest major airport is in Eureka (ACV) or Medford, Oregon (MFR).
Final Thoughts
Whether you're hiking beneath towering redwoods, relaxing on a windswept beach, or standing in awe beneath a 2,000-year-old tree, Redwood National and State Parks offer a soul-stirring escape into nature. It’s more than a destination – it’s an experience that humbles and inspires.
