Redwood National Park (California)

Redwood National and State Parks, along the northern coast of California, offers a breathtaking journey into a land of towering giants and lush, ancient forests. These extraordinary parks, home to the world's tallest trees, provide visitors with an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the awe-inspiring beauty of one of Earth's most exceptional ecosystems.

Established in 1968, Redwood National and State Parks encompass a combined area of over 139,000 acres, which includes both Redwood National Park and several California state parks. The parks protect nearly half of the world's remaining old-growth redwood forests, where coastal redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) soar to heights of over 370 feet and can live for more than 2,000 years.

The parks' verdant landscapes support a diverse array of plant and animal life. In addition to the iconic redwoods, visitors can encounter Douglas firs, ferns, and huckleberries, creating a rich tapestry of flora that thrives in the region's mild, moist climate. The parks are also home to various wildlife species, including black bears, Roosevelt elk, and the endangered marbled murrelet.

Redwood National and State Parks offer a variety of recreational activities that allow guests to fully appreciate the majesty of these ancient forests. Over 200 miles of trails meander through the parks, providing hikers with the chance to stroll beneath the towering redwoods, explore the rugged coastline, or traverse lush prairies. Other popular activities include wildlife viewing, picnicking, and camping under the canopy of the magnificent trees.

The nearby communities of Orick, Klamath, and Crescent City provide convenient access to Redwood National and State Parks, offering accommodations, dining options, and local attractions for visitors. These welcoming towns ensure that every guest can enjoy the parks' enchanting beauty in comfort and style.

MUST SEE SITES

1. Lady Bird Johnson Grove: This beautiful grove is named after the former First Lady, who was a champion of conservation efforts. Visitors can explore the area by hiking one of the park's trails, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

2. Tall Trees Grove: This remote grove is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, and requires a permit to access. Visitors can explore the area by hiking one of the park's trails, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

3. Fern Canyon: This stunning canyon features walls covered in lush ferns, and has been used as a filming location for movies like Jurassic Park 2. Visitors can explore the area by hiking one of the park's trails, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

4. Coastal Drive: This scenic drive offers stunning views of the park's rugged coastline, as well as opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the area by driving the coastal route, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

5. Klamath River Overlook: This stunning overlook offers views of the Klamath River as it flows into the Pacific Ocean, as well as opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the area by hiking one of the park's trails, attending a ranger-led program, or simply taking in the stunning views of the unique landscape.

GETTING THERE

The most popular way to arrive at Redwood National and State Parks is by car. The park is located in northern California, and can be accessed via several highways. From San Francisco, you can take US Route 101 to the park's entrance.

If you prefer to travel by air, the closest airports to Redwood National and State Parks are the Arcata-Eureka Airport and the Crescent City Airport, both of which are located about an hour's drive from the park. These airports offer flights from several cities, including San Francisco, Seattle, and Denver.

Once you arrive at Redwood National and State Parks, the best way to get around is by car or by foot. The park is home to several scenic drives and hiking trails, including the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail. There are also several campgrounds available for overnight stays, and ranger-led programs and tours are offered throughout the year.

GATEWAY COMMUNITIES

The towns of Crescent City, Klamath, and Arcata serve as the primary gateway communities to Redwood National and State Parks, offering various accommodations, dining options, souvenir shops, and outdoor recreation equipment rentals.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Visitors can find various lodging options in the surrounding communities, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Additionally, there are several campgrounds available within the parks, providing tent and RV sites.

CAMPGROUNDS

Redwood National and State Parks have several developed campgrounds, offering tent and RV sites, as well as basic amenities like restrooms, drinking water, and picnic areas. Some campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others require reservations during the busy season, from May through September.

WEATHER/CLIMATE

Redwood National and State Parks have a moderate climate, with cool summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can range from the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures can range from the 40s to 50s. Visitors should be prepared for potential rain, especially during the winter months, and foggy conditions throughout the year.

RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES

Numerous recreational opportunities await visitors, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the parks' unique old-growth redwood forests. The parks offer miles of hiking trails, providing opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes and observe the world's tallest trees. Popular hikes include the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, the Tall Trees Grove Trail, and the Fern Canyon Trail. Wildlife viewing is popular, with a variety of species such as Roosevelt elk, black bears, and numerous bird species inhabiting the area.

VISITOR CENTER

Redwood National and State Parks have several visitor centers, including the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center, the Jedediah Smith Visitor Center, and the Prairie Creek Visitor Center. These centers provide information about the parks' history, ecology, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. Rangers are available to offer guidance and answer questions. The visitor centers are open daily during the visitor season, with reduced hours and services during the off-season.