Redwood National and State Parks wilderness guide
National and State Parks · CA
Hiking Guide

Redwood National and State Parks

Cloaked in an emerald embrace, Redwood National and State Parks offer a journey through ancient wonder and natural grandeur. As you step onto the well-trodden paths, the air is rich with the scent ...

National and State Parks139,0004+ Trails

Designation

National and State Parks

Total Wilderness Area

139,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks are home to the tallest trees on Earth, offering unparalleled experiences of lush forests, diverse ecosystems, and rich biodiversity.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Redwood National and State Parks, located along the coast of Northern California, encompass over 139,000 acres of lush old-growth forest, pristine rivers, and rugged coastline. It serves as a sanctuary for the iconic coast redwood trees, some of which reach heights exceeding 370 feet. The parks offer spectacular opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Not only a natural wonder, the parks also contain significant cultural heritage sites of the local Native American tribes. Visitors can explore the meandering trails that lead through silent groves of towering giants, past lush ferns and vibrant wildflowers. Historical exhibits within the parks portray the rich history of the region, including the logging industry that once threatened these majestic trees. Outdoor adventurers are drawn to the parks not only for the forests but also for the chance to see animals such as Roosevelt elk, black bears, and the endangered marbled murrelet. The blend of breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife makes Redwood National and State Parks a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Field Guide · National and State Parks
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Redwood National and State Parks

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Tall Trees Grove✦ The stunning coastline at Enderts Beach✦ Wildlife viewing at Elk Meadow✦ Exploring the scenic route of Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Redwood National and State Parks

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Activity Field GuideRedwood National and State Parks

Hiking in Redwood National and State Parks

Embark on the Enchanted Trails of Redwood National and State Parks

Cloaked in an emerald embrace, Redwood National and State Parks offer a journey through ancient wonder and natural grandeur. As you step onto the well-trodden paths, the air is rich with the scent of earth and foliage, whispering tales of eons past. Towering redwoods stand like timeless guardians, their colossal trunks stretching heavenward, casting speckled shadows on the forest floor. The allure of these ancient sentinels draws adventurers from all walks of life, inviting them to traverse landscapes that blend breathtaking beauty with rugged challenge.

This dynamic ecosystem unfurls a realm of exploration where each trail charts a unique course through untamed beauty. Here in this vibrant enclave, practicality meets wonder. Lace up your weather-worn boots as each mile introduces a new chapter of discovery. The stout heart of the forest invites you to wander the Tall Trees Grove Trail, where the silence is punctuated only by the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant melody of rushing streams. You'll feel the earth's pulse as the trail weaves through colossal giants, their canopies sweeping the sky far above.

Progressing through this living canvas, the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail welcomes you with open arms. As mist lingers in the morning hours, ethereal light dances through the forest, creating a hypnotic interplay of shadow and glow. The air is thick with history, every step resonating with the whispers of conservationist champions who breathed life into this sanctuary. Trail guides encourage you to tread lightly, reminding all adventurers of the sacredness of these grounds.

For those craving a more rigorous trek, the Boy Scout Tree Trail offers a hearty challenge. It is a path that beckons the intrepid with its promises of solitude and profound beauty. The journey meanders across creeks and through dense fern-clad undergrowth, demanding a kindred spirit of perseverance and longing for authenticity. No trail through these regal woods is akin to a straight line; instead, it twists and turns, molding itself into the landscape like a river charting its timeless course.

As you plan your venture, practical preparation is key. Gear up with durable footwear designed to grip mud and resist moisture. The weather here often rides the fine line between fog and drizzle, so pack layers to accommodate sudden shifts in temperature. Proper hydration is non-negotiable; the verdant oasis is a siren's call, and the effort spent exploring its depths requires sustenance to match.

The Redwood National and State Parks extend beyond just alpine redwoods. Coastal trails beckon adventurers to witness the interplay of forest and sea, where waves crashing upon jagged rocks harmonize with the chirping of distant seabirds. Seek out the scenic marvels of the Coastal Trail, where the crisp ocean air invigorates the soul, and towering cliffs provide vantage points rarely found elsewhere.

Let your journey be punctuated by moments of quiet reflection, lost among the majestic old-growth trees or staring at the infinite horizon over a roaring Pacific Ocean. Redwood National and State Parks create not only a pilgrimage for the heart but a challenging invitation to those willing to embrace adventure in its most elemental form. This is a domain where each trail beckons with tales untold, waiting for those who tread with an open mind and a fervor for exploration. Let the grandeur of nature's arena captivate your spirit and guide your every step into the heart of these hallowed woodlands.

Other Available Activity Guides in Redwood National and State Parks:
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Redwood National and State Parks.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees are required, but certain facilities and areas may charge for parking.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Redwood National and State Parks

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Jedediah Smith Campground

Set in an ancient redwood grove along the Smith River, offering both tent and RV sites.

Elk Prairie Campground

Located within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this campground is perfect for spotting elk and accessing beach trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Redwood National and State Parks

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Orick, California
⌖ 5.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Orick, California

Orick, CA offers adventurers access to some of the most majestic redwood forests and rugged coastlines. With diverse ecosystems to explore, it's an excellent base for nature lovers.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
McKinleyville, California
⌖ 19.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

McKinleyville, California

McKinleyville offers diverse outdoor adventures, from beachcombing along scenic coastal stretches to hiking through lush forests. Experience wildlife viewing and vibrant natural beauty in this quiet town.

Klamath, California
⌖ 22.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Klamath, California

Klamath, California offers rugged river canyons, towering redwoods, and Pacific coast access. Outdoor lovers enjoy hiking, fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing amid wild landscapes and protected parks year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Blue Lake, California
⌖ 22.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Blue Lake, California

Blue Lake, California, is a peaceful town set along the Mad River with great hiking, fishing, and paddling. Surrounded by lush forests and protected lands, it’s an ideal spot for travelers seeking nature and outdoor recreation off the main routes.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Korbel, California
⌖ 23.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Korbel, California

Korbel is a tranquil small town surrounded by towering redwoods and the scenic Eel River. It’s perfect for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and camping lovers seeking peaceful outdoor adventures away from crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Arcata, California
⌖ 24.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Arcata, California

Arcata offers outdoor enthusiasts a blend of hiking through redwoods, kayaking in Humboldt Bay, and birdwatching at the marsh. Enjoy California's rugged North Coast in this eco-friendly town.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Redwood National and State Parks

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Full Day World's Tallest Trees Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Orick, California
Guided TourADV Bookable

Full Day World's Tallest Trees Tour

Embark on a full-day guided journey through the towering redwoods of Orick, California, and experience the awe of walking among some of the tallest trees on the planet. Discover the history, ecology, and conservation of these ancient giants in an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Guided TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Half Day Fern Canyon Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Orick, California
Guided TourADV Bookable

Half Day Fern Canyon Tour

Discover the lush beauty of Fern Canyon on this guided half-day adventure with Redwood Adventures. Walk through walls of ferns and waterfalls, and immerse yourself in nature's masterpiece in Orick, California.

Guided TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Half Day Worlds Tallest Trees Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Orick, California
Guided TourADV Bookable

Half Day Worlds Tallest Trees Tour

Discover the breathtaking height and beauty of the world's tallest trees on this half-day guided tour in Orick, California. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, this experience offers a chance to connect with ancient giants and learn about their ecological importance.

Guided TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Trinidad Coastal Walking Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Trinidad, California
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

Trinidad Coastal Walking Tour

Walk Trinidad’s dramatic headlands and sheltered coves on a small-group coastal tour that blends ocean vistas, tidepools, and local maritime history. Perfect for photographers, families, and first-time visitors to California’s North Coast.

Sightseeing TourThe Jewel of the North Coast: A Guided Walk Through Trinidad’s WondersCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip