Avenue of the Giants wilderness guide
Scenic Drive · CA

Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants is a world-renowned 31-mile scenic drive through Humboldt Redwoods State Park in Northern California, famous for its towering redwood trees.

Scenic Drive51,0004+ Trails

Designation

Scenic Drive

Total Wilderness Area

51,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants is a world-renowned 31-mile scenic drive through Humboldt Redwoods State Park in Northern California, famous for its towering redwood trees.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Avenue of the Giants runs parallel to Highway 101 and offers travelers the opportunity to experience the majestic beauty of old-growth redwoods. Located within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, this route provides access to some of the world's tallest trees, with many reaching heights over 300 feet. The area is rich in biodiversity, with a lush understory of ferns and a variety of wildlife including black bears, deer, and numerous bird species. Historically, the redwood forest has been a vital ecosystem for Indigenous peoples, and the area continues to be a site for both conservation and recreation. Visitors can explore various hiking trails, rivers, and groves such as Founders' Grove and Rockefeller Forest. The combination of serene natural landscapes and accessible recreational opportunities makes it a captivating destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Field Guide · Scenic Drive
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Avenue of the Giants

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Founders' Grove - a famous collection of some of the largest redwoods.✦ Rockefeller Forest - the largest contiguous old-growth redwood forest in the world.✦ Dyerville Giant - a massive tree that once stood over 370 feet tall.✦ Immortal Tree - a 950-year-old redwood that has survived lightning and floods.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Avenue of the Giants

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Avenue of the Giants
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Avenue of the Giants
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Avenue of the Giants
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Avenue of the Giants
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Avenue of the Giants
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Avenue of the Giants.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees required for general access.

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 Avenue of the Giants

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

Burlington Campground

Located near the visitor center with amenities including restrooms and showers.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Avenue of the Giants

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

Weott, California
⌖ 1.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Weott, California

Weott is a small town serving as the perfect basecamp for exploring Redwood National and State Parks. Its forested trails, river paddling, and peaceful camping attract lovers of towering trees and tranquil wilderness.

Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Honeydew, California
⌖ 10.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Honeydew, California

Honeydew, CA is a remote coastal town at the edge of California’s Redwood Country, ideal for hiking, kayaking, and camping in wild, quiet forests and rivers. It’s perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and rugged natural beauty.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Phillipsville, California
⌖ 10.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Phillipsville, California

Phillipsville is a tranquil spot on the northern California coast where river paddling, redwood hiking, and quiet camping offer a low-key outdoor escape amid ancient forests and scenic waterways.

Spring through early Fall
Explore Town
Redway, California
⌖ 14.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Redway, California

Redway is a quiet Northern California town centered among towering redwoods and wild rivers. Hike, bike, paddle, or fish in peaceful forests with minimal crowds, making it perfect for travelers seeking authentic nature escapes.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Scotia, California
⌖ 14.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Scotia, California

Scotia is a serene retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking outdoor activities amid colossal redwoods and along the scenic Eel River. It's an ideal spot for hiking, biking, and camping.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Rio Dell, California
⌖ 15.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rio Dell, California

Rio Dell is a quiet river town in Northern California perfect for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, paddling, and fishing along the wild Eel River. Surrounded by protected forests, it offers a peaceful adventure base away from crowded destinations.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Avenue of the Giants

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

A Gentle Half-Day Float Through Del Loma’s Upper Trinity
ADVEXPEDITION
Del Loma, California
RaftingADV Bookable

A Gentle Half-Day Float Through Del Loma’s Upper Trinity

A four-hour scenic raft trip on the Trinity River that emphasizes calm floats, sandy beaches, mild Class II rapids and wildlife viewing—this guide explains what to expect and how to pack.

RaftingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Glide the Sheltered Channels of Humboldt Bay
ADVEXPEDITION
Eureka, California
KayakADV Bookable

Glide the Sheltered Channels of Humboldt Bay

A three-hour guided kayak tour launching from Woodly Island that traces Indian Island’s interior channels and Woodley Island marina—ideal for beginners, wildlife watchers and history buffs.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip