Overview
Prepare to feel incredibly small (in the best way possible!) because Redwood National and State Parks are where Mother Nature decided to show off her BIGGEST and most ancient creations. This isn't just a park; it's a living cathedral of colossal coast redwoods, the tallest trees on Earth, some soaring over 370 feet and living for 2,000 years! Located along the rugged Northern California coast, about 325 miles north of San Francisco, this unique collection of parks (co-managed by the National Park Service and California State Parks) protects nearly half of the world's remaining old-growth redwoods. Imagine misty forests, sun-dappled groves where ferns carpet the ground, scenic drives winding through giant trunks, and a wild coastline where these ancient sentinels meet the thundering Pacific. From spotting Roosevelt elk grazing in prairie meadows to tidepooling along dramatic shores, Redwood National and State Parks offer an offbeat, awe-inspiring journey into a land of giants, perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone needing a serious dose of humbling perspective.
Top Attractions (Where Giants Roam & Oceans Roar!)
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
An easy 1.4-mile loop through a stunning old-growth redwood grove, complete with towering giants, lush ferns, and a magical, misty atmosphere. (National Park - free entry).
Trillium Falls Trail
A moderate 2.8-mile hike offering a quiet escape to a beautiful waterfall cascading through a redwood and fern-filled canyon. Perfect for solitude seekers.
Newton B. Drury Parkway
A breathtaking 10-mile scenic drive that winds right through the heart of majestic old-growth redwood forests in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. (State Park fee may apply).
Tall Trees Grove (Permit Required)
Home to some of the world's tallest trees, including the former record holder, the Libbey Tree. Access requires a free permit and a hike down to this sacred-feeling grove.
Klamath River Overlook & Coastal Drive
An 8-mile scenic Coastal Drive offering stunning ocean views, whale watching opportunities (in season), and access to WWII radar station ruins. The overlook is a prime spot!
Fern Canyon (Prairie Creek Redwoods SP)
Walk through a narrow canyon whose 50-foot walls are completely covered in lush, vibrant ferns. It's like stepping into Jurassic Park! (State Park fee may apply).
Unique Stories & Facts (Secrets of the Giants!)
- Home to the World's Tallest Living Thing: Hyperion, a coast redwood discovered in 2006, stands at a mind-boggling 379.7 feet! Its exact location is kept secret to protect it, but you'll be walking amongst its brethren.
- A Partnership Park System: Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP) is a unique cooperative management effort between the National Park Service and the California Department of Parks and Recreation, combining federal and state lands to protect these ancient forests.
- Roosevelt Elk Roam Free: Keep an eye out for herds of majestic Roosevelt elk, especially in the prairie areas of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. They are the largest subspecies of elk in North America.
- Ancient Survivors: Coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) are living fossils, with an ancestral line dating back over 240 million years to the Jurassic period. Some individual trees in the park are estimated to be over 2,000 years old!
- Fog is Their Friend: The iconic coastal fog that often blankets the redwood forests is crucial for their survival, providing essential moisture during California's dry summers. It also adds to the mystical, primeval atmosphere.
Best Travel Seasons (When to Wander with the Woodlands!)
Spring (Apr-Jun)
Mild and magical (50-70°F). Rhododendrons and wildflowers bloom, trails are lush, and waterfalls are flowing. Fewer crowds than summer.
Summer (Jul-Aug)
Pleasant but often foggy along the coast (55-70°F). Inland can be warmer. Peak season for visitors, so expect more people on popular trails.
Fall (Sep-Oct)
Crisp and clear (50-70°F). Often the sunniest time of year with beautiful golden light filtering through the trees. Salmon runs begin in the rivers.
Winter (Nov-Mar)
Cool and wet (40-55°F). The rainforest is at its most vibrant green. Far fewer crowds, but be prepared for rain and potentially muddy trails. Some roads may have seasonal closures.
Popular Activities (Get Dwarfed by Nature's Majesty!)
- Hiking Among Giants: Trek the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail (1.4 miles, easy) for towering redwoods or the Trillium Falls Trail (2.8 miles, moderate) for a quiet waterfall hike. The Boy Scout Tree Trail (5.6 miles, moderate) offers secluded giants. (National Park free; State Parks $8/vehicle).
- Ranger-Led Nature Walks: Join free seasonal ranger-led walks in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park to explore redwood ecology and spot wildlife like elk and banana slugs on trails like Revelation.
- Scenic Drives Through Tree Tunnels: Cruise the Newton B. Drury Parkway (10 miles) winding past redwoods and elk meadows, or take the Coastal Drive (8 miles) for ocean views and WWII history. The gravel Cal Barrel Road (1.5 miles) offers a quiet redwood immersion.
- Tidepooling at the Coast: Explore tide pools at Enderts Beach or False Klamath Cove at low tide to discover starfish, anemones, and crabs. A fantastic family-friendly activity. (Check tide charts!).
- Kayaking on the Rivers: Paddle the Smith River (20 miles north) or Klamath River (15 miles south) with Redwood Rides. Spot otters and enjoy the serene beauty from the water. (Rentals ~$25–$50/half-day; tours ~$80–$130).
Casinos Nearby (~30 Miles - Redwood Riches!)
If you're feeling lucky after communing with ancient trees, there are a couple of tribal casino options relatively close to the southern end of Redwood National and State Parks:
- Redwood Hotel Casino (Klamath, CA - within the park's general vicinity): Operated by the Yurok Tribe, offering slot machines, dining, and lodging right in the heart of redwood country.
- Cher-Ae Heights Casino (Trinidad, CA - approx. 20-25 miles south of southern park areas):** Features slot machines, table games, bingo, and often live entertainment with ocean views.
Oddities Nearby (~20 Miles - Forest Freaks & Coastal Curios!)
Trees of Mystery (Klamath)
A classic roadside attraction featuring a giant Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, a "SkyTrail" gondola ride through the canopy, and quirky tree formations. ($20/adult).
Drive-Thru Tree Park (Leggett or Myers Flat - further south, but iconic)
While slightly outside the immediate park boundaries, no redwood trip is complete without the kitschy thrill of driving your car through a living giant redwood!
Eternal Tree House (Redcrest - further south)
A 20-foot room carved inside a living 2,500-year-old redwood. Another classic roadside stop that's wonderfully odd.
Haunted Tourism Nearby (~20 Miles - Spirits of the Ancient Forest!)
- Old Town Eureka (Approx. 40-50 miles south, but the closest "haunted town"):** Many of Eureka's historic Victorian buildings, especially the waterfront saloons and hotels, are subjects of ghostly legends and local paranormal investigations.
- Battery Point Lighthouse (Crescent City, near North end of RNSP):** Accessible only at low tide, this historic lighthouse is said to be haunted by former keepers and shipwreck victims. Its isolation adds to the eerie vibe.
- Klamath River Ghost Sightings:** Local Yurok Tribe lore and some anecdotal reports from fishermen speak of mysterious lights and apparitions along the banks of the Klamath River, especially in foggy conditions.
- Abandoned Logging Camps (Throughout the region):** While not official sites, the remnants of old logging camps deep in the forests have an undeniably spooky atmosphere, with tales of lingering spirits of hardworking lumberjacks. (Explore with caution and respect).
Local Events & Festivals (Celebrating Giants & Coast!)
- Orick Rodeo (Summer, Orick - southern gateway to park):** Experience small-town rodeo action with bull riding, barrel racing, and a community BBQ.
- Klamath Salmon Festival (August, Klamath):** Celebrate the annual salmon run with traditional Yurok ceremonies, food, crafts, and a classic car show.
- Crescent City / Del Norte County Fair (Summer, Crescent City):** A classic county fair with livestock shows, carnival rides, and local exhibits.
- Ranger-Led Campfire Programs (Summer, various campgrounds):** Check NPS and State Park schedules for evening campfire programs featuring storytelling, nature talks, and sometimes music.
Lodging Options (From Historic Inns to Forest Campgrounds)
Charming B&B: Trinidad Bay Bed & Breakfast (Trinidad)
Stunning ocean views, cozy rooms, and delicious breakfasts in the picturesque coastal town of Trinidad, south of the parks. (From $200+/night).
Mid-Range Motel: Redwood Inn (Klamath)
Clean, comfortable, and conveniently located near the Trees of Mystery and Klamath River Overlook. (From $120+/night).
Rustic Cabins: View Crest Lodge (Trinidad)
Cozy cabins nestled in the woods with kitchens and fireplaces, offering a peaceful retreat near the coast. (From $150+/night).
Camping: Jedediah Smith Campground (RNSP)
Iconic campground nestled among massive old-growth redwoods along the Smith River. Reservations are essential! (From $35/night).
Dining (Local Cuisine Highlights – Fresh Seafood & Forest Fare!)
Larrupin Cafe (Trinidad)
A beloved local institution known for its eclectic, flavorful dishes (mesquite-grilled meats are a highlight!), funky decor, and live music.
Seascape Restaurant (Trinidad)
Casual dining right on the Trinidad pier with stunning bay views. Famous for fresh seafood, clam chowder, and fish and chips.
Klamath River Salmon Houses (Seasonal)
Look for seasonal roadside stands or restaurants in Klamath offering traditionally cooked Yurok-style salmon, often grilled over alder wood.
Palm Cafe & Motel (Orick)
A classic, no-frills diner in the small town of Orick, serving hearty breakfasts and American comfort food. A good stop for fueling up.
Travel Tips
- What to Pack (All Seasons!): Layers, layers, layers! Coastal weather is unpredictable. Rain gear (even in summer), sturdy hiking boots, bug spray (especially for Fern Canyon), and binoculars for wildlife.
- Bear Safety & Food Storage: This is bear country. Store ALL food and scented items properly in bear-proof containers or your vehicle's trunk, day and night, at trailheads and campgrounds.
- Permits & Reservations: While general entry to Redwood National Park is free, State Parks (Jedediah Smith, Prairie Creek, Del Norte Coast) charge an $8/vehicle day-use fee. Permits are required for backcountry camping and sometimes for accessing Tall Trees Grove (free, obtain online or at visitor centers). Campground reservations are HIGHLY recommended months in advance.
- No Cell Service is the Norm: Expect very limited to no cell service in most of the park areas. Download maps and trail information offline BEFORE you arrive.
- Leave No Trace: Stay on marked trails to protect fragile undergrowth (and avoid poison oak!). Pack out everything you pack in. Do NOT collect redwood burls or any natural items.
Nearby Destinations Within 30 Miles (More Coastal & Forest Wonders!)
- Crescent City (North End of Parks): A coastal town with Battery Point Lighthouse (accessible at low tide), harbor seal viewing, and access to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
- Klamath (Central Park Area): Home to the Trees of Mystery, the Klamath River Overlook (great for whale watching), and the Redwood Hotel Casino.
- Orick (South End of Parks): The "Elk Capital of California," offering access to Lady Bird Johnson Grove, Tall Trees Grove (permit needed), and Redwood Creek Trail.
- Trinidad (Approx. 20-25 miles S of Southern Park Areas):** A stunningly picturesque fishing village with beautiful beaches, a historic pier, Trinidad Head trail, and great seafood.
Recommended Duration of Stay
2-3 Days: The Redwood Sampler!** This allows time to drive Newton B. Drury Parkway, hike iconic trails like Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Trillium Falls, visit the Klamath River Overlook, and maybe explore Fern Canyon. Perfect for a first taste of the giants.
4-5 Days: Deep Forest Immersion!** Add longer hikes (Boy Scout Tree Trail, Tall Trees Grove), explore tide pools, kayak a river, drive the Coastal Drive, and spend more time soaking in the ancient, mystical atmosphere. Ideal for serious nature lovers and hikers.
Target Travelers
- Nature Lovers & Tree Huggers (Literally!): If being dwarfed by the tallest living things on Earth doesn't move you, nothing will.
- Hikers & Trail Seekers: Miles of trails wind through diverse ecosystems, from fern-choked canyons to coastal bluffs and, of course, majestic redwood groves.
- Photographers & Videographers: The scale, the light filtering through the canopy, the misty atmosphere – it's a visual feast.
- Families Seeking Outdoor Adventures: Easy nature walks, scenic drives, wildlife viewing (elk!), and tidepooling offer fun for all ages.
- Road Trippers on Highway 101: Redwood National and State Parks are an unmissable, iconic stop on any Pacific Coast Highway adventure.
Destination Joke
It said, "I just need more space to grow... like, 300 feet more!"
Listen to Our Podcast Episode!
"Redwood Giants & Coastal Charms: An Offbeat Journey Through NorCal's Titans!" - Your audio guide to this ancient wonderland!
Your Redwood National Park Dane D Blaze Ebook of Giants!
Ready to walk among the titans of the forest? This ebook is your ultimate guide to Redwood National and State Parks – packed with the best hiking trails, secret groves, scenic drives, coastal adventures, and how to capture that perfect shot of a tree that's taller than the Statue of Liberty!
Ebook Coming Soon!What Kind of Redwood Wanderer Are You?
Answer these to find your inner forest spirit!
Nature Lovers will love the groves, Adventure Seekers will chase the waterfalls, and Scenic Cruisers will hit the parkways!
Wildlife Watchers will scan the prairies for elk, Marine Biologists (at heart) will explore the tide pools, and Water Adventurers will hope for otter sightings!
Forest Bathers will seek the misty groves, while Ocean Lovers will be drawn to the dramatic coastline!
You understand the profound power of these gentle giants and seek the tranquility that only an ancient forest can provide. Redwood National Park welcomes your kindred spirit!