Why Go to Redwood National and State Parks
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Standing at the base of a coast redwood changes how you think about scale. In the foggy far northwest corner of California, Redwood National and State Parks protect the tallest living things on Earth. Some trees top 300 feet, and some have stood for more than 2,000 years.
There's far more here than tall trees. Walk between the fern-covered walls of Fern Canyon, comb the driftwood-scattered Pacific beaches, and watch Roosevelt elk graze across open prairies. Pay your respects to the Big Tree and the Grove of Titans, take a slow drive down narrow, winding Howland Hill Road, and look up from the canopy sky bridges for a whole new view of the forest.
This is a place to slow down and let the quiet take over. The park is remote and lodging nearby is limited, so planning ahead matters. I'll handle the route, the stays and the timing so you get the best of the forest and the coast without the guesswork.
BEST FOR
Hikers, nature lovers, photographers, families and road-trippers
BEST MONTHS
May to September
EXPLORE
- Crescent City: The northern gateway.
- Klamath: A small town in the middle of the parks.
- Orick: The southern gateway.
- Trinidad: A charming coastal town to the south.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Redwood National and State Parks
North America › West Coast › USA › California
The world's tallest trees, misty fern canyons and wild Pacific beaches.
Forest
Hiking
Trees
Scenic
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Check permit and reservation requirements before you go; Tall Trees Grove requires a permit, and Fern Canyon access needs a reservation in summer.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Get a free permit in advance; only a limited number are issued each day.
Tall Trees Grove
A remote grove of some of the tallest trees on Earth.
Make a reservation in summer and wear waterproof shoes.
Fern Canyon
A narrow canyon with walls covered in lush ferns.
Stop at the Big Tree Wayside.
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
A scenic drive through old-growth redwoods.
Go early in the morning for misty light.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove
An easy loop trail through a beautiful grove.
Watch for elk on the beach.
Gold Bluffs Beach
A wild beach with dunes and elk.
Cozy cabins near Elk Prairie, often with elk grazing outside.
Elk Meadow Cabins
Orick
Hotel Tags
A historic inn overlooking the Klamath River.
Requa Inn
Klamath
Hotel Tags
A classic motel built from a single redwood tree.
Curly Redwood Lodge
Crescent City
Hotel Tags
A hotel with ocean views near the harbor.
Oceanfront Lodge
Crescent City
Hotel Tags
A charming inn in a peaceful coastal town.
Trinidad Inn
Trinidad
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Redwood National and State Parks
High 58°F · Low 42°F · Rain 9.6 in
Rain returns, crowds thin out and the forests turn lush again.
The best time to visit is May through September, when the weather is mild and trails are accessible. Fog is common in summer, while winters bring rain and fewer crowds.
Best Times to Visit Redwood National and State Parks
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Dining near the parks is casual, with fresh seafood and local favorites.
- Seafood: Try Dungeness crab, oysters and fish and chips.
- Local favorites: Enjoy clam chowder and smoked salmon.
- Must-try: Dungeness crab, clam chowder and local craft beer.
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Hiking
Trails are the best way to experience the redwoods.
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Bikes
Some trails and roads are open to bikes.
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Shuttles
Limited shuttles serve some areas.
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Scenic Drives
Highway 101 and scenic parkways connect the parks.
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Driving
A car is essential for exploring the parks.
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Flying In
California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport (ACV) is about 30 to 60 minutes from the parks.
Most travelers drive to the parks along Highway 101. Once you're here, a car is essential, and trails are the best way to explore.
Getting Around Redwood National and State Parks
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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