The Ultimate Guide to Redwood National Park

There’s only one other National Park that comes close to the Redwoods, and that’s Sequoia. Other than that, it’s as unique as they come. But what separates Redwood National Park from Sequoia National Park is the tallest and densest trees in the world. I was in awe, walking through the forests staring up at the behemoths and looking at 2,000 years of history. The woods are magically lush — something few other places can offer. 

Not to mention, Redwood is one of the first three state parks. About 40 years later, the National Park Service came in to offer additional protection, support, and funding. To this day, it’s still a joint operation between the California State Parks and the National Park Service. But there are some other things to know before you venture to Redwood…

Sleeping

Camping

The Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP) are a complex comprised of one national park and three state parks. The three state parks are Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Each state park has its own campground, but they fill up fast. California allows you to reserve campsites six months in advance. If you’re looking for a last-second spot, especially on the weekend, you might be out of luck. This was our issue (and during the middle of the week), but we found plenty of private campgrounds to sleep in.

Backpacking

There are limited backpacking opportunities in the park, but they have them. A popular one is to backpack to the Tall Trees Grove area in Prairie Creek State Park. 

Hotels

There are also plenty of hotels in the region. I’d suggest staying no further south than Trinidad. Crescent City is probably your best bet if you want to maximize time spent outside and minimize car travel. Jedidiah Smith State Park and Del Norte State Park are within a 25 minute drive. 

Hiking

Finding hikes in the Redwoods is incredibly easy. It’s one of the best parts of the area, and none of them are too long or strenuous. I didn’t find too many trails to be longer than seven miles or have steep inclines. Instead, most of them are flat walk-in groves with trees cresting above 300 feet.

Fern Canyon

This is a short two-mile loop or out-and-back through a lush green canyon. The standard route into the canyon is in water, so bring your water shoes or waterproof boots. You’ll be floored by its greenness and never want to leave. 

Lady Bird Johnson Grove

This is a less than three-mile loop amongst the Redwoods. This is dedicated to former First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson and her involvement in protecting this area in the 1960s and 70s. 

Tall Trees Trail

Keep in mind that you will need a permit to hike amongst the tallest trees. It’s free, but only 50 are issued each day. The park service requires it 48-hours in advance, and it’s about a 6-mile round trip hike. Additionally, the drive to the hike is estimated at two hours total. In other words, plan for this to be a full-day adventure.

Damnation Trail

The only hike on this list from Del Norte State Park is Damnation Trail. It’s unique as you start in the trees and end on the beach. Be aware it is a steep trail but full of wonder and beauty. 

Stout Grove

This is one of the most popular trails in Jedidiah Smith State Park. It’s a 2-mile loop through gorgeous trees and ferns. I’d recommend doing this on a weekday as it can get busy during peak hours.

Grove of the Titans

The hike weaves its way through the forest for a mile before reaching the Grove of the Titans, where they’ve built an elevated walkway to decrease human traffic on the environment. The short section has informational material on the landscape and land heritage. I highly recommend this.

Boy Scout Tree Trail

This is my favorite hike in the tall trees. It truly felt like we were on another planet with the massive trees around us. The first mile is uphill, and then you begin descending to a waterfall near the trail’s end. 

Trillium Falls

Think of the most perfect waterfall you’ve ever seen. Trillium Falls may outpace that by a few steps. While it’s not tall or has much power, the serenity is perfect. What I enjoyed the most was how green and lush it was. Don’t skip this one. 

Klamath River Overlook

Two miles off highway 101, you’ll get a beautiful look at the Klamath River meeting the Pacific Ocean. It is perfect for sunset or sunrise. However, be prepared for strong gusts of wind.

Other Activities

That’s one of the downsides to the area. There isn’t much else to spend your time on if you need a break from tall trees and hiking. Here are a handful of other activities you can do to pass the time:

• Visit the lighthouse and beach area
• Go to Tolowa Dunes State Park
• Check out the aquarium
• Northcoast Marine Mammal Center
• Enjoy the elk at Prairie Creek State Park
• Watch the whales swim up the coast at Sue-Meg State Park

Best Time to Visit

Thanks to being on the coast, the Redwood National Park is great to visit year-round. While it can be foggy and cover up the sun, you won’t notice it as much because the sun is constantly blocked by tall trees.

Visitors should know that fall through spring is the rainy season, with 50+ inches of rain in these months. The summer months are warmer but foggy, giving it a moody feel. Lastly, wear sturdy, nonslip hiking shoes as the forest can be muddy.

What to Bring

Clothing and gear for Redwood National Park can be tricky. The area gets a lot of fog, resulting in chilly or humid conditions with a fair amount of moisture. Also, the winter months can be in the 50s, which requires layers. However, if you plan to hike, you’ll likely break a sweat and want moisture-wicking fabric. See? Not super easy!

• Rain jacket
• Rain pants
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Moisture-wicking clothes
• Brimmed hat
• Medium Warmth leggings
• Puffy lacket for cold mornings and nights
• Day pack for snacks and water
• Duffel for packing
• Hiking watch to keep track of your treks
• Hiking poles
• Loveseat camping chair

Wildlife

The wildlife is sparse in the Redwood National Parks except for one animal — elk! Prairie Creek State Park and the surrounding areas have a good-sized elk herd. We saw them a bit off the road during my one day there.

There are bears in the area, but signs said less than five are seen every year. That means two things. First, you’re probably not going to see them. Second, it also means they won’t be skittish toward humans, and you should treat them with respect and caution.