There is something magical and otherworldly about being in a forest surrounded by trees that are the size of buildings. And not just a few, hundreds of them. While making our move from San Diego to Seattle, we made sure to include some time in Redwood National Park.
What we learned is that this is not like many other national parks. You won’t find a giant welcome center and a loop road that travels around to all the sites. This is a national park surrounding by state parks that just protect these mystical tree creatures.
Get Out and Hike in Redwood National Park AND the State Parks
Even if it’s just a few minutes, this beautiful area must be taken in from the ground on the trails. There are tons of trails. Taking the loop through the Lady Bird Johnson Grove was a delight. Redwood National Park is actually surrounded by California state parks. The entire region is protected which is awesome. In the valleys between the mountains and the coast, you can find so many different trails.
We recommend using the app, All Trails, to find hikes. A few to add to your list in addition to the Lady Bird Johnson Grove: Fern Canyon, Damnation Creek Trail and Rhododendron Trail (this is top of our list if we ever return in May or June).
Camp within Redwood National Park or Surrounding Parks
This is the number one mistake we made – not camping. It was still a little cool when we were there, but if I could do it over again – I’d find a cabin to rent at a campground or pack warm layers. Instead we stayed in Eureka and had a horrible experience. I won’t go into details (unless you ask me), but staying in town was not a pleasant experience.
Plus, that morning light in the forest is gorgeous and it’s good to stay close so you can get out early.
If you hate camping and definitely want a hotel of some kind, look in Ferndale. Use this link to find a spot in that adorable town – avoid the rest for an overnight.
Take the Scenic Route
If your feet need a break from hiking, take some time to enjoy the beautiful scenic drives in Redwood National Park and the state parks. Avenue of the Giants is just south of Redwood National Park off Highway 101. It twists and turns through the forest with the sun breaking through every 100 feet or so. Roll the windows down, open the sunroof and breath in the fresh air. Another great drive is the Newton B Drury scenic parkway.
Just make sure the driver keeps their eyes on the road because the road swerves around the trees, so there are twists and turns everywhere.
Look Up… Carefully
I might not be the most coordinated person, but usually walking is not hard for me. I must warn you that I do not recommend walking and looking up at the same time. There were some close calls while walking through the woods because there are lots of things to trip over, including just my own two feet, so it’s OK to stop and just stare. I’m so used to moving quickly, so it was good practice of just slowing down.
Enjoy the Kitsch
If you don’t take a picture hugging a tree or standing in front of a tree for a size reference, what are you even doing? But the fun doesn’t stop at cheesy photos. We drove past tons of great tourist activities. While we didn’t have time to stop and are still in the middle of a pandemic, we added all kinds of spots to our list for when we return.
Lots of “drive-thru trees” and strange gift shops, drive-in restaurants and even a giant Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox to take pictures with. The locals definitely take advantage of the visitor traffic to make their living and you should just dive all the way in to the fun if you can. There are guidebooks to help you start your Sasquatch hunt.
And now, a photo dump of Redwood National Park…
Have you been to Redwood National Park? Is it on your list to visit?
Tell me what your favorites were from the park or if you have any questions about visiting.
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