If you are looking for one of the most magical road trips in the United States, perhaps the world, a Redwoods road trip is a perfect choice. Imagine 6 full days soaking in the Redwoods Zen. The best major city access to the Redwoods is San Francisco, so it is a natural starting point. It may sound like a San Francisco to Redwood National Park road trip, but we will give you far more than that. There are several other Northern California places to experience the Redwoods, all different, and some even superior to the National Park. We will give you all the information you need for an amazing Redwoods Road Trip.
As a child I imagined the Redwood Forest as ethereal and enchanting, a place where entire fantasy worlds might exist. National Geographic and Britannica may have started it, but seeing the home of the Ewoks in such a forest served to reinforce such notions, and I longed to visit these otherworldly landscapes, feeling if my life could never be complete until I visited these forests of giant trees. Only the yearning to visit Ireland surpassed the longing for the Redwoods.
In those younger days I knew that the Redwoods were in California, but I don’t think I had any idea how rare they actually were, or that it was their only home. They only exist in northern California and Southern Oregon. Even at their furthest expanse and greatest growth there were few other places in the world. They were always special. Among the forests we can see now, a mere 5% of the original, old-growth forest still exists!
Assuredly, that rarity only serves to magnify the mystical reputation of the forests. But the sense of peace and tranquility that presides in each grove is undeniable. A walk in the stillness of the Redwoods is soothing to the soul, a type of meditation.
Our Timing and Route to the Redwoods from San Francisco
This Redwoods road trip itinerary is spread over 6 days of activity, with a 6 hour return drive on day 7. Each day has a number of Redwood stops, with various attractions, sights and trails. Including the drive back to San Francisco and travel home, it will make a full 1 week vacation.
If you have less time, almost any individual day can be completely omitted, while leaving the remainder of the itinerary in tact. I have provided suggestions on how best to accomplish this, and how certain days can be combined into a single day with only the absolute best of the stops. You can tailor the route to your schedule and preferences easily. If you prefer to pick a home base do more hiking, check out our guide to the Redwoods National and State Park trails.
We will travel most of our route by Route 101, sometimes referred to as the Redwood Highway. We will diverge onto the Avenue of the Giants, and resume on 101 at the end of the Avenue, remaining on Route 101 for the remainder of the trip.
This is not the only way to get from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park, or the associated state parks. Many Redwoods road trips will diverge at Manzanita on Highway 1, the Pacific Cost Highway, rejoining Route 101 at Leggett. This is a lovely coastal route, abundant with unique beaches, scenic overlooks, and charming towns, as well as a few Redwood parks that we will not see on our route to the Redwoods from San Francisco. I would add a minimum of 2 additional days to travel by and explore this route.
Lodging Along the Redwoods Road Trip Route
There are plentiful lodging options available from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park, including campgrounds, resorts, motels, inns and hotels. I researched extensively prior to making this Redwoods road trip the last time, and found a places that met every need we had, and felt in tune with the peaceful nature of the trip.
Night 1 in Garberville
Benbow Historic Inn
If you feel like a bit of a splurge, with all the amenities, stay where the famous have stayed, at the Benbow Historic Inn. Cary Grant, Spencer Tracy, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Herbert Hoover have all walked the halls. Make a reservation at Benbow Historic Inn now!
Best Western Humboldt House Inn
For a simpler hotel with clean rooms, and excellent service, in a great location, go with a name you can trust. Make a reservation at Best Western Humboldt House Inn now!
Nights 2-4,5 or 6 in Trinidad
Emerald Forest Cabins
Spend a few nights right in the midst of the Redwoods in cute and cozy cabins, with everything you need to feel at home. We LOVED these cabins, and had a Redwood tree growing through our back patio! Make a reservation at Emerald Forest Cabins now!
Night 6, or 5-6 in Crescent City
Best Western Plus Northwoods Inn
Stay where you can smell the ocean salt in the air, at the highest reviewed hotel on the Crescent City strip. Make a reservation at Best Western Plus Northwoods Inn now!
Redwoods Road Trip Day 1 – San Francisco to Garberville
Redwoods Itinerary Day 1 Overview
Day 1 covers a bulk of the distance to get from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park. There are a number of quirky stops that make a more entertaining trip, however, they are clustered together closer to the end of the drive. Most of them are kitschy, touristy stops, but they are fun. Total mileage 205 miles and actual drive time 4 Hours.
Recommended Stops for Day 1
Legget Drive-Thru Tree Park – .5 Hours (Unless Having Lunch)
There are three different drive through trees along our Redwoods road trip, but in my opinion, the Chandelier Tree is the finest of them at the Drive-Thru Tree Park in Leggett. It has the widest girth, the clearest drive through path, and the best photo angles. There is an entrance fee to the park, but no additional charges inside.
After taking your fill of drive through and walk through photos, there is a full park, lake, trail, and other odd tree “attractions.” You have plenty of room to stretch out, get some other fun photos, and perhaps peruse the gift shop. If you were planning a picnic lunch, this is a good spot eat.
Frank and Bess Smithe Grove – 1 Hour
The Frank and Bess Grove is one that you could simply pass by, but it is a good place for a stretch and a first cluster of Redwoods. There are a few unmarked trails, with a short trail going west leading to the South Fork of the Eel River, and a .25 mile northerly trail going to the small Dora Waterfall. This grove was once a private resort area, complete with a restaurant and museum. Only the walk-through stump that once stood at the restaurants door remains.
One Log House – .5 Hours (Unless Having Lunch)
Clearly another tourist attraction, but one with some historical significance, many travelers are inclined to pass by the One Log House. I recommend a short stop, as the history is quite fascinating, and as one who fancies living in a tiny house some day, I felt quite at home inside. It is worth the nominal fee for the walk through. The associated business has a lot of historical information and photos, a decent lunch counter for a sandwich and latte, and a dispensary.
Grandfather Tree .5 Hours
Immediately next door the Grandfather Tree rising high above all that surrounds it. We will encounter trees that are over 100 feet taller on our Redwoods road trip, but few will stand with an unfettered view as the Grandfather Tree does. It is an excellent photo opportunity, and there are all sorts of decorative items for more fun photos, as well as a shop selling wood crafts.
Richardson Grove State Park – 2 Hours
The moment Richardson Grove comes into sight is one of the first big WOW moments when traveling to the Redwoods from San Francisco. It is the first time you’ll see whole clusters of really big trees, with very little undergrowth, and it gives a taste of the wonder that is to come.
You’ll find most of the expected state park amenities including interpretive exhibits, and marked trails. During the warmer months there is a full visitors center, a nature store, a junior ranger program, and campfire programs in the evening. Stop by the Learning Center, experience the Walk Through Tree and the Bat Tree, and walk The Race Track Interpretive Trail. Hike down to the Eel River, a National Wild and Scenic River. You can even take a splash in the cool waters. In the evening, you may wish to drive the 7 miles back to the park from your hotel or a campfire program.
After the stop at Richardson Grove, continue 6-7 miles to Benbow or Garberville for the night. If you stay at the Benbow Historic Inn, there is a restaurant on site. Be sure to check out the historic stone bridge built in 1931 just up the road. If you stay in Garberville there are several restaurant options, including American, Mexican, organic and vegetarian.
Optional Stops for Day 1
The Skunk Train – 3.5 Hours
To add an entirely different element to the Redwoods Road Trip, a stop off in the small town of Willits to ride the Skunk Train can be a fun excursion. A 2 hour round trip, the train passes through a tunnel, descends into a tunnel, and stops at the Wolf Tree, a Redwood with an unusual side growth, before returning. It is a scenic and relaxing journey.
World Famous One Tree House – .75 Hours
Another 2 miles beyond the One Log House you find the “World Famous” One Tree House makes its presence known with a number of signs. Burned out Redwoods are quite common due to lightning strikes, and the trees can live on for decades afterwards. Here you can tour this house in a tree, and see more chainsaw carved statues than you ever imagined existed. It is different than the one log house, as it is still growing.
Confusion Hill – 2 Hours
A fun, family oriented site featuring a mystery train ride and a gravity house, among other attractions. It is rather kitschy, and flamboyant, but it presents an hour or two of family fun.
To Skip Day 1
Day 1 cannot be completely bypassed, as this distance from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park must be covered. However, all of the stops can be bypassed. With an early enough departure from the city you could drive through to the onset of the Avenue of the Giants, and begin your Redwoods itinerary on day 2.
Redwoods Road Trip Day 2 – Garberville to Trinidad
Redwoods Itinerary Day 2 Overview – Avenue of the Giants
The entirety of this day is spent traveling the Avenue of the Giants, the iconic Redwoods route known worldwide, then making our way to our lodging for the evening. The total mileage 90 miles, actual drive time 2 hours. Grab a lunch to go or pack a picnic before leaving Garberville, as there are few places for food or drink along the road.
Recommended Stops for Day 2
Avenue of the Giants – Time Indeterminate
Avenue of the Giants is the showcase of Humboldt State Park featuring some of the earliest protected forestlands, due to the Save the Redwoods League and philanthropic support. The Avenue is 31 miles of highway that intermittently snakes through the forest groves with 8 numbered roadside stops, each with a site and interpretive panel. You can download a copy of the map and guide.
I have not included most of the stops in this trip to the Redwoods from San Francisco, but encourage you to stop at all that appeal to you. Those stops will include: The Franklin K. Lane Grove, the Boling Grove, the Visitors Center, Weott High Water, Mahan Grove, Dyerville Lookout, Chandler Grove, and the Drury-Chaney Grove. I have included them on our Day 2 map.
Shrine Drive Through Tree – .5 Hours
The second drive through tree on the road from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park, and the only one that was naturally formed, but also the narrowest. The tunnel through the tree was caused by fire, which is common among the Redwoods. The tunnel is only about 7 feet wide, so only small vehicles will fit. There is also a crawl through tree for children, as well as a couple really cool tree houses.
Humboldt Redwood State Park Visitor Center – 1 Hour
The first of several visitors centers that we will encounter on our Redwoods Road Trip. Humboldt features a number of hands on exhibits portraying the indigenous wildlife of the forest and Eel River, and the historic logging industry. There is also a unique vehicle, The Travel Log, a sort of camper van carved from a tree log that actually once drove. There are two adjacent trailheads, including the wheelchair accessible Gould Grove Nature Loop. Pick up trail maps, Avenue of the Giants road trip guides, and get any other needed information.
Founders Grove and Mayhan Loop – 2 Hours
The Founders Grove has become one of the most iconic stops from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park, and it is the busiest, for good reason. There are big trees as far as you can see, and it is home to the once tallest tree in the world, the Dyerville Giant. Having fallen in 1991, the Dyerville lies along the trail for its full length to be both understood and appreciated. It will definitely WOW you to take it in this way.
At a minimum walk the half mile loop trail through that includes the Founders Tree, pictured above, and the Dyerville Giant. The roots of the Founder Tree are covered by boardwalk for the protection of the tree. The Founder stands almost as tall as the Dyerville once did, at 346 feet, and is quite impressive.
To extend time at Founder’s Grove, take the .2 mile connection at the far end of the loop, and pick up the Mahan Loop. There are those who believe this is the most beautiful part of the Grove. It is definitely brighter, and far quieter with less foot traffic and slightly less traffic noise.
Rockefeller Loop – 1 Hour
On the other side of the Avenue a short drive away is another stop that is not to be missed, the Rockefeller Loop. Not to be confused with the Rockefeller Grove of sequoia trees in Yosemite, the Rockefeller Forest in Humboldt State Park is now part of the single largest untouched stretch of coastal Redwoods existing. Originally preserved by 2 million dollars in donations from John D. Rockefeller that enabled its purchase, it is often described as a fairy forest.
The trail is a .7 mile loop in the crook where the Bull Creek and South Fork of the Eel River come together, shrouded in a quiet and magical mist. In several spots it is a darker and more shadowy trail than many others, because there is more undergrowth, and lots of young Redwoods growing beneath their forebears, making shade. Walk the entire loop as the section just out of the parking lot and then the far side running along Bull Creek that are the most striking.
After your finished exploring the Rockefeller Loop or the optional Big Trees area, exit the Avenue of the Giants and continue along Highway 101 for just over an hour to get to Trinidad. If you are absolutely starving along the way, you can stop in Fortuna for Mexican food or Steak, or gran an In and Out Burger in Eureka. We drove straight through, knowing there are amazing food choices in Trinidad. Our first night we tried Trinidad Bay Eatery and Gallery, and won a few dollars at the nearby Heights Casino.
Optional Stops for Day 2
The Big Trees Day Use Area – 1.5 Hours
Five miles past the Rockefeller Loop along Mattole Road you will find the lesser known Big Trees Day Use Area. It is still a popular location for those who follow the Redwoods history, as it is home to two former World’s Tallest Trees- The Giant Tree and the Tall Tree.
The Tall Tree, world champion in 1957 at 359 feet tall, is on a small loop adjacent to the parking lot. The Giant Tree is found along the trail on the other side of Bull Creek. It is best visited in the summer when the seasonal footbridge is in place. Also along this trail is an area with an unusual number of fallen trees, including the Flat Iron Tree.
To Skip Day 2
Of all the days on our trip from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park, we do not suggest bypassing day 2. The 90 miles must be traveled anyway, so it is best not to miss some of the best Redwoods sites that exist, and some unique experiences. However, it is possible to drive through the 90 miles, directly to Trinidad. If doing so, stay on Highway 101 rather than the Avenue of the Giants, for faster travel.
Redwoods Road Trip Day 3 – Trinidad Coastal Area
Redwoods Itinerary Day 3 Overview – Trinidad Coastal Area
I have spent time along the coasts in Oahu and Kauai, circumnavigated Puerto Rico, and visited both the Cliffs of Moher on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, and Giants Causeway on the Causeway Coastal Route. Even so, the Trinidad Coast is quite literally one of the most beautiful coastal areas that I have ever encountered. It is worth a day of exploration, even on a Redwoods road trip.
The cold waters of the Pacific create a lot of fog, so the days of blue skies are not frequent, but the area is stunning even shrouded in white mist. We dedicated this day of our itinerary to explore this wonder, next door to the Redwoods. Driving time is minimal, and there is no need to pack a lunch. There are several dining choices within the Trinidad area that do not disappoint.
Recommended Stops for Day 3
Trinidad Museum – 1 Hour
Get an introduction into this small but important city at the Trinidad Museum. You’ll learn about the Natives who lived in the area, the Tsurai Village, the Spanish claim on the land, the gold rush, and industries that have been prevalent in the area including fishing, whaling, logging and shipping.
Trinidad State Beach – 2 Hours
So stunning is the coast in the Trinidad area that the town is considered a gateway city for the California Coastal National Monument, managed jointly by the Bureau of Land Management as a conservation area. There are two areas of charcoal gray sand, and the rocky areas create some spectacular tide pools. Be sure to explore the beach on both sides of the pier.
Trinidad Head Trail and Lighthouse – 2 Hours
You will find unprecedented and seldom repeated views on the Trinidad Head Loop. A 1.3 mile loop trail that climbs 284 feet up the head passes the cross commemorating the original Spanish Cross claiming the area, and the 1871 lighthouse that is still in use. A variety of wildflowers and sea birds make their home on the head, and depending on the season, there can be migrating whales, dolphins, seals, elephant seals and sea lions to be seen. You will also have an amazing view down the coast. Bring your binoculars!
Sue-meg State Park – 4 Hours
Formerly Patrick’s Point Park, Sue-meg is loaded with things to do. Make the short trek up Wedding Rock, (which you may recognize from Jurassic Park-Lost World), explore the world class tide pools at Palmer’s Point, and find jewel stones at Agate Beach.
Most importantly, take a walk through the recreated Suemeg Village, and see the Redwood split board family houses, sweat house and dance house, learning about the traditional life of the local Yurok Tribe.
After finishing up at Suemeg just return the few miles back to Trinidad and try another of the restaurant options for a great dinner.
Optional Stops for Day 3
Humboldt State University Marine Laboratory – Varies
If you are particularly interested in marine life, you may wish to check the schedule for the Humboldt State University Marine Lab. The lab features a variety of aquariums and touch tanks housing local coastal wildlife, and hosts a number of classes, including guided tidal pool walks.
To Skip Day 3
Simply bypass all of the day 3 activities if you do not wish the Trinidad Coastal area to be part of your Redwoods Road Trip.
Redwoods Road Trip Day 4 – Trinidad back to Trinidad
Redwoods Itinerary Day 4 Overview – Redwood National Park and Southern Prairie Creek State Park
This day of our Redwoods Road Trip that gives a real introduction to the full wonders of the National and State Parks. A unique grove, stunning coast and beach views, prairies and hilltops, and sections of forest unique to the wet and temperate climate. Some of the favorite of all park attractions are experienced. Total mileage 80 miles, actual drive time approximately 2.5 hours. Once again, you should bring along a take out lunch or some picnic fixings.
Recommended Stops for Day 4
Thomas H Kuchel Visitor Center – .5 Hours
This is the largest of the Visitors Center in the National and State Parks, with a number of services and amenities. Pick up trail maps, get your National Park passport stamped, take a Junior Ranger handbook if you are traveling with children, view the exhibits on coastal Redwoods and watersheds, and obtain a parking pass for Fern Canyon. You can also see the schedule of ranger activities for the week, and schedule attendance if any of them appeal to you.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove – 1.5 Hours
After a steep drive up Bald Hills Road, you will find one of the most historically significant groves of the Redwoods parks. The Lady Bird Johnson Grove is one of very few remaining upland groves, named for the former First Lady, was the site of the opening of Redwoods National Park. The First Lady was in attendance at that ceremony, along with her husband, former President Lyndon Johnson, and it was commemorated by then President, Richard Nixon.
Because of the higher elevation, the fog here is more prevalent, lasting longer in the day. These highland trees are smaller than those in the lowland groves. Regardless of these facts, the undergrowth is thicker and more floral, and it feels brighter, so it is pleasantly distinguished from other groves. If you have to chance to visit in June, you will enjoy the blossoming Rhodendrons along the 1.1 mile loop trail.
Bald Hills Road – 1.0 Hours
Bald Hills continues on well past the Lady Bird Grove, to a total length of 17 miles within the National Park. If you are opting to go to the Lyons Farm or the Tall Trees Grove, our suggested optional stops, you will be driving the entirety of this. If not, there are no further Redwood sights to see on down the road.
However, many people enjoy the views out over the prairies, forests and hills a few miles down, particularly in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. We recommend driving 8 or 10 miles along to enjoy these views, and take a walk along the hilltops.
Trillium Falls Trail – Hour
The Trillium Falls tray is a 2.5 mile loop that makes nice family trail, although it is described as moderate due a few steep grades. It can get a little busy, due to its location right off the highway, and the enticement of a waterfall. As it happens, the small grove of Redwoods along the trail remain by sheer luck. Once a lumbering area, the sawmill that once sat near the trailhead kept the small section of trees surrounding the business for esthetic purposes.
To get to the trail, you cross the grassy area where the sawmill once stood, now known as Elk Grove Picnic Area. If you are lucky, you may get a glimpse of the elk herd in their grazing. Along the trail the vegetation is thicker, and more varied than most trails on our Redwoods road trip, and thus more colorful. There is also a variety of moist ground wildlife, such as voles, salamanders and slugs, things that kids love. The falls themselves are a bit anti-climatic, but pretty, with a lovely gurgling song.
Fern Canyon Loop – 3 Hours
Many people believe that Fern Canyon it is the most surreal location found from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park. It is like a slot canyon, with fern covered walls instead of stone, that seems impossible. The fact that the fern species are millions of years old, and the fact that it is a beloved Hollywood filming location only adds to its mystery and allure. Be aware that a small creek runs through the canyon. In the summer months there are footbridges, but in the other seasons you will likely end up with wet shoes.
You’ll need to apply for a parking permit online, if you are visiting between May 1 and September 30, and pay a $12 entrance fee to the area. To get there you must drive the 12 mile gravel road through the forest, past the drift wood cemetery, beneath the Gold Bluffs and along the beach. But it will be worth it.
Afterwards, spend a little time on Gold Bluff Beach. Although it may seem it was named for the color of the bluffs, it was actually named because gold was mined from the walls of the cliffs for decades. The crashing Pacific waves were a critical element of the mining process, and when the bluff faces had receded too far for the water to reach, the mining stopped.
Once you are back on Highway 101, head south for the half hour drive back to Trinidad. Try another of the restaurants for dinner.
Optional Stops for Day 4
The Majestic Tour via Horseback – 3 Hours
For something a bit different you could arrange a horseback tour with the Redwood Creek Buckarettes. You and your horse will climb through hillside old growth forest to a spectacular view out over the forest and ocean, with an interpretive guide giving information on the trees, wildlife and local history.
Tall Trees Trail – 5 Hours
The Tall Trees Trail was aptly named after the discovery of the small grove that contained not only the then tallest tree in existence, but the 2nd and 3rd tallest as well. This has led to it being one of the more highly sought and difficult to get to trails within all of the Redwoods parks. If you thought Fern Canyon access was a challenge, it was mild. Tall Trees is a beautiful and unique trail, but the time required may make other options preferable.
To hike Tall Trees you will need an access permit requested no less than a full day in advance, but 7 days out is advisable. To get there, drive the full 17 miles of Bald Hills Road, enter the locked gate, drive down the 6 mile gravel logging road, then hike 1.3 miles with a 800 foot decline to get to the 1 mile loop through the grove. When it is wrapped up, put it all on reverse, including the 1.3 miles with an 800 foot climb on the way out. Access and the hike will require 5-6 hours of your day so be sure you are fit, and well prepared for a half day hike.
Lyons Ranch Trail and Historical District – 3-4 Hours
A 4 mile out and back trail also departing from the 17 mile mark of Bald Hills Road, with an elevation change of 400 feet. At the two mile mark is the Lyons Ranch, a former sheep ranch operated by both settlers and Native Americans from 1868 to 1959. The incredibly preserved ranch remnants include shepherd housing, a variety of barns and sheds, ponds, and orchards, among others. You can almost imagine a handful of farmworkers going about their daily business. It is truly a step back in time.
To Skip Day 4
An easy day to omit from the Road Trip to the Redwoods itinerary if desired, by simply bypassing it. If it is desired to make some combination of day 4 and day 5 to pare a day from the trip, the Thomas H Kuchel Visitors Center, Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Fern Canyon are the sites which should not be missed.
Redwoods Road Trip Day 5 – Trinidad back to Trinidad or on to Crescent City
Redwoods Itinerary Day 5 Overview – Klamath and Prairie Creek State Park
A mixture of fun stops and essential stops in the town of Klamath, and the northern section of Prairie Creek State Park. We mix in some Native American history, some dramatic coastal views, some outstanding Redwoods, and some adrenaline mixed in. Total mileage is approximately 105 miles, and actual drive time about 2.5 hours. You have an option of taking a picnic lunc, or stopping at one of the cafe diners near Klamath or Trees of Mystery.
Recommended Stops for Day 5
Yurok Country Visitor Center – 1.5 Hours
Northern California once had several thriving Native American nations, and the Yurok were the prevalent nation in this area of the coastlands and hills. Unlike most native tribes, the Yurok have never been removed from their ancestral lands, and still occupy a 40 mile corridor along the Klamath River which ends at the Pacific. The Yurok Country Visitor Center features numerous interactive visits concerning tribe history and local wildlife, a discovery tribal village, and scheduled cultural events. I think that to fully understand an area and its natural environment, we must also understand the peoples who lived within.
Klamath Drive Through Tree – .5 Hours
The Klamath Drive Thru Tree is the last of the 3 drive through trees on the San Francisco to Redwoods National Park route. It is a bit misleading at the approach, as it appears you are in a normal town neighborhood, but indeed, it is there down a long drive from the entrance station. A donation box is present for those who arrive after regular hours.
Trees of Mystery – 3 Hours
While Trees of Mystery looks and sounds like one of those goofy tourist traps one expects in popular areas. And, while it is in essence that, we had a lot of fun there, and think it is well worth your time.
I am only sort of sensitive to heights. We road the Sky Trail, but I could only look up, not down. I attempted to take a video clip over my shoulder, and I got some blurry tree tops, with me saying “I can’t look repeatedly.” The viewing platform at the top was fine though.
Features include the basic .8 mile trail through numerous curious Redwoods with informational signs, including the 300 foot Brotherhood Tree; the SkyTrail, with its enclosed gondolas and viewing platform high above the forest; the Redwood Canopy Trail, with 10 viewing platforms connected by 8 suspension bridges between 50 and 100 feet above ground; and the private collection museum exhibiting Native American artifacts and artworks. You won’t regret your time here.
Coastal Road – 1.5 Hours
The Coastal Road is a 9 mile loop through norther Prairieview Redwood State Park, with spectacular views over the Pacific and the Klamath River, that also passes by a WWII radar station (disguised as a farm house.)
Depending on the season, whales, seal lions and pelicans can be seen below, so bring binoculars. The overlooks make the perfect place for a picnic lunch overlooking the sea, if the weather is nice.
Nathan B Drury Scenic Drive – 2 Hours**
Described as one of the must-do experiences in the Redwoods, the Nathan B. Drury Scenic Drive passes 10 miles through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. It has a number of pull-outs, memorial groves, and trail heads along the route. Recommended stops prior to the visitors center include the Corkscrew Tree seen above, the Big Tree, and the Circle Trail which includes the Big Tree.
Circle Trail – .5 Hours
A very short quarter mile trail accessed from the Big Tree Wayside parking area. It is a short and flat trail leading through an area of lush forest, and to the viewing platform of the Big Tree. There is a clearing surrounding the tree that allows an excellent photo vantage.
Prairie Creek Visitors Center – .25 Hours
A very small visitors center where refreshment can be taken, and with a few small exhibits on area wildlife and history. Rangers plan a variety of evening programs in the park during the summer month, and the schedule can be reviewed at the center. However, the most important reason to stop at the center is to inquire about the local elk herd. Rangers can typically direct you to the most recent wandering, and best viewing location to observe the herd.
Revelation Trail – .5 Hours
Departing about 500 meters past the Visitors Center, the Revelation Trail is another very short trail, at .3 miles, but this one is specifically created for the visually impaired. The trail goes through a particularly beautiful small patch of old growth Redwoods, with a variety of stations set up to encourage the use of all 5 senses. As pretty as it looks, the entire experience is enhanced for everyone with the simple reminder to listen, smell, and touch, to truly understand the forest. Even with all we have seen on this Redwoods road trip, it is unique.
Elk Prairie – .5 Hours
Elk Prairie spreads out to the south of the Visitors Center between the highway and the forest. In itself it is nothing special to see, but as the name implies, it is often the grazing location of the park’s resident elk herd. Hopefully rangers were able to give you an accurate location to see the elk. If it isn’t here, skip this and go to where they are!
After hopefully finding the elk herd, hop back onto Highway 10 and make the 30 minute drive back to Trinidad to try yet another of their fine restaurant options for dinner. As an alternative, you could run day 5 in reverse, and drive the 32 miles north to Crescent City, as explained below.
Optional Stops for Day 5
Cathedral Trees Trail – 2.5 Hours
A longer trail departing from the Big Tree Wayside, the 1.4 mile Cathedral Trees Trail is known for the number of namesake Cathedral Trees, which are a family group of trees attached at the lower trunk. The slope of the area gives a different perspective, as do the variety of herbs and berries growing along the trail. Because f its placement, it must be handled as an out and back, at 2.8 miles, or as a part of a loop with the Karl Knapp Trail (formerly called the Prairie Creek Trail).
Klamath Jet Boat Tours – 3 Hours
For something truly different, exciting and invigorating, Klamath Jet Boat Tours offer 2 hour, 45 mile trips up the Klamath River. The trips, hosted by Yurok Tribal members, evenly distributes periods of spinning and splashing, with those of quiet wildlife observations in areas that would be difficult to access in any other way. The tours are truly and adventure, and an experience that will not be forgotten.
To Skip Day 5
Another very easy day that is easy to bypass on our Redwoods Road Trip, as it is as simple as bypassing the entire day. If it is desired to combine day 4 and day 5 into a single day, highlights from this day that should not be overlooked are the Nathan B Drury Scenic Drive, the Circle Tree and Big Tree Wayside, and the Revelation Trail.
Redwoods Road Trip Day 6 – Trinidad to Crescent City
Redwoods Itinerary Day 6 Overview – Jedediah Smith State Park
The day is spent enjoying the top attractions of the Jedediah Smith State Park. It is a day exclusive to the Redwoods again, featuring some of the finest groves in all the parks. Outside of the initial 1.5 hour drive from Trinidad to Crescent City, the area of exploration is small and far less mileage is covered. Total mileage for the day is about 80 miles, and actual drive time for the day is about 2 hours and 10 minutes.
If more time is desired to explore Crescent City, day 5 can be run in exact reverse. Be sure to check out of lodging when heading out for the day, to take up new lodging in Crescent at the end of the day. This will allow several more hours to explore the city.
Recommended Stops Day 6
Simpson-Reed Trail – 1 Hour
Once the most popular trail in Jedediah Smith State Park, the beautiful but lesser traveled Simpson-Reed is a great trail to start the day. A short .9 mile trail, it traverses a bit of old growth that has far more undergrowth than many of the others on our Redwoods Road Trip, with Hemlocks and Maple trees, huckleberries and ferns, and a number of interpretive panels alongside a creek. Everything is moss and lichen covered, so it looks more primitive. It is a little trickier to find, off of Walker Road.
Hiouchi Visitors Center – .5 Hours
This is the last of the Visitors Centers that we will explore on our trip from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park. And while it may be wondered why visit another, I have found that the exhibits in each of the centers are varied, and that there is something unique to be learned in each. What is more, Hiouchi also has a self guided walk with wayside exhibits located just outside. As always, check the schedule for Ranger led activities, just in case there are any that appeal.
Stout Grove – 1 Hour
One of the favorites in all of the Redwood Parks, often described as the most scenic Redwood trail, Stout Grove provides a dramatic contrast at this point. While carpeted with ferns, it has strikingly less undergrowth than most previous trails we have explored. There are no signs or informational panels.
The periodic flooding of the Smith River prohibits many lesser plants and trees from thriving. This leaves the half mile loop parading through an almost open corridor presenting the immense old growth trees in all of their glory. A short trail turnoff leads to the side of the gorgeous Smith River.
Boy Scout Tree Trail – 4.5 Hours
A more challenging final trail to our Redwoods Road Trip, the Boy Scout Tree Trail is about 6 miles out and back. While the route between the trees may not seem as pristine as Stout Grove, because there is much heavier undergrowth. But the trees seem to be countless, and the ravine alongside the trail presents the sloping trees from an angle we have seldom experienced.
There are some steep up and downs, a few bridges, frequent mud, and an abundance of raised roots, presenting the challenges that make this trail moderate. The namesake Boy Scout Tree is found off a short spur to the right at the 2.4 mile mark, while at the 2.8 mile mark is the small Fern Waterfall.
Howland Hill Road – 1 Hour
A portion of Howland Hill Road must be traveled to get to the both Stout Grove and the Boy Scout Tree Trail, but the rest of it is worthy of the drive, traveling through continued Redwood forest. In some locations the trees are so large and thick they nearly crowd out the road. Be aware that the road is not paved in all sections, but you will be fine in a regular car, provided it has not been a period of heavy rains.
Optional Stops for Day 6
Battery Point Lighthouse
A remarkably scenic island lighthouse located along the Crescent City coast. Originally taking up operations in 1856, Battery Point still is still in use. The historic lighthouse, keepers residence, and corresponding museum can be visited, when the tide is out. Otherwise it sits on an inaccessible offshore island. Check at the Crescent City visitors center for possible opening times during your visit.
To Skip Day 6
Day 6 of our Redwoods Road Trip itinerary offers some of the finest groves in the forests, so you probably do not want to miss it. But, if you must, it will save several hours driving time. Rather than head north in the morning, start the drive back to San Francisco upon checking out of your lodging in Trinidad.
Are You Ready for Your Redwoods Road Trip??
If you have fantasized about the fairy like worlds of the Redwood forest, longed for quiet peace and soaking up the Zen of thousand year old trees, or just want to see the tallest living things on the planet, going to the redwoods from San Francisco is for you. It is a mixture of fun, adventure, learning opportunities, history and culture, all sandwiched between the Redwood forests.
As you see, it is well more than going from San Francisco to Redwoods National Park! We loved this Redwoods road trip, and I think you will too!
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