A Guide to Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park is one of the most stunning natural wonders in the United States, located in Northern California. This magnificent park boasts over 130,000 acres of preserved land, home to some of the tallest and oldest trees on earth, with some reaching over 350 feet in height and over 2,000 years old. The park is not only a place for trees and forests, but it also houses a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, Roosevelt elk, sea lions, and a variety of bird species. The park’s coastline is equally impressive, offering visitors stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby rock formations. Here are the top 10 things to do in Redwood National Park that you won’t want to miss.
1. Marvel at the Redwood Trees:
The redwood trees are the most spectacular attraction in the park. The Lady Bird Johnson Grove is a popular area for viewing the redwoods and is home to some of the tallest trees in the park. The grove is accessible via a 1.5-mile trail, which offers visitors an up-close and personal view of the redwoods. Additionally, the Tall Trees Grove is located in the southern section of the park and can only be accessed via a permit system. However, the grove is home to some of the tallest trees in the park, including the Libbey Tree, which stands at over 350 feet tall.
2. Explore the Coastal Trail:
The Coastal Trail is a 70-mile-long trail that runs along the coastline of Redwood National Park. This breathtaking trail offers visitors spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline. If you are lucky, you might spot some of the sea lions and harbor seals that call this area home. The trail is divided into different sections, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
3. Visit the Klamath River Overlook:
The Klamath River Overlook provides a great vantage point to observe the Klamath River as it meets the ocean. This spot is particularly popular during the salmon migration season from September through December. Visitors can enjoy the views from the overlook or take a short hike to the beach to get an even closer look.
4. Take a Drive on the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway:
The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is a 10-mile road that winds through the heart of the park. This road is particularly scenic, with numerous turnouts offering views of the redwoods and other natural wonders. The road is also home to a variety of hiking trails, including the Big Tree Wayside Trail, which offers visitors a chance to see some of the largest trees in the park.
5. Visit the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park:
Located within the Redwood National Park, the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is a great place to explore with numerous hiking trails, including the popular Fern Canyon Trail. The park is also home to Roosevelt elk, which can often be seen grazing in the meadows. The park is accessible via the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.
6. Walk Along the Trillium Falls Trail:
The Trillium Falls Trail is a 2.5-mile loop that meanders through a lush forest and leads to a picturesque waterfall. This moderately difficult trail offers opportunities to see a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can also spot some of the park’s wildlife, including birds and squirrels.
7. Explore the Tall Trees Grove:
The Tall Trees Grove is located in the southern section of the park and can only be accessed via a permit system. However, the grove is home to some of the tallest trees in the park, including the Libbey Tree, which stands at over 350 feet tall. Visitors can obtain a permit from the Kuchel Visitor Center to access the grove and hike through the ancient redwood forest.
8. Go Wildlife Watching:
Redwood National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, elk, deer, sea lions, and various bird species. Visitors can go on a wildlife-watching tour or explore the park on their own to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.
9. Enjoy a Picnic:
Redwood National Park offers several picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal amidst the stunning natural beauty of the park. The Elk Prairie Picnic Area is particularly popular, with its picturesque setting and views of Roosevelt elk grazing in the meadows.
10. Relax on the Beach:
Redwood National Park has several beautiful beaches, including Gold Bluffs Beach and Enderts Beach, where visitors can relax and enjoy the sun and surf. The beaches are also great spots for wildlife watching, with the opportunity to spot sea lions and various bird species.
Hikes in Redwood national park
Redwood National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with an extensive network of trails that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from the towering redwood forests to the rugged coastline. Here are some of the best hikes in Redwood National Park:
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail:
This 1.4-mile loop trail is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Redwood National Park. The trail winds through a stunning redwood forest, with towering trees that are over 300 feet tall. The trail is easy and suitable for all ages, making it a great family-friendly hike.
Fern Canyon Trail:
The Fern Canyon Trail is a 1-mile loop that takes hikers through a lush canyon that is draped in ferns. The trail can be wet and muddy, so it is recommended to wear appropriate footwear. The trailhead is located in the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, which is accessible via the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.
Tall Trees Grove Trail:
The Tall Trees Grove Trail is a 4-mile out-and-back hike that takes visitors through a pristine old-growth redwood forest. The trailhead is located in the southern section of the park and requires a permit to access, which can be obtained from the Kuchel Visitor Center. The hike is moderately strenuous, with some steep sections, but the views of the towering redwoods are worth the effort.
Damnation Creek Trail:
The Damnation Creek Trail is a challenging 5.3-mile out-and-back hike that takes visitors through a forest of Sitka spruce and Douglas fir trees, with stunning views of the rugged coastline. The trail can be steep and rocky in some areas, so it is recommended for more experienced hikers.
Coastal Trail:
The Coastal Trail is a 70-mile-long trail that runs along the coastline of Redwood National Park, offering visitors breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby rock formations. The trail is divided into different sections, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Some of the most popular sections of the trail include the Klamath Overlook Trail, which offers stunning views of the Klamath River, and the Enderts Beach Trail, which takes visitors to a secluded beach with tide pools and sea stacks.
Conclusion:
Redwood National Park has some of the best hiking trails in the United States, with a range of options for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you are looking for an easy stroll through a towering redwood forest or a challenging hike along the rugged coastline, Redwood National Park has something for everyone. So, lace up your hiking boots and come experience the natural beauty of this stunning park for yourself!
How many days do I need to see Redwood National Park?
The amount of time you need to see Redwood National Park depends on how much of the park you want to see and how many activities you want to do. If you only have a few hours to spare, you can still see some of the park’s highlights, such as the Lady Bird Johnson Grove or Fern Canyon.
However, if you want to fully explore the park, including its hiking trails, beaches, and scenic drives, it is recommended to spend at least two to three days in the park. This will allow you to see many of the park’s main attractions and also have time for some additional activities.
If you want to see the park more in-depth, or if you want to do more challenging hikes or go on longer scenic drives, you may want to spend even more time in the park. Additionally, if you are interested in wildlife watching or visiting the nearby towns and attractions, you may want to extend your stay further.
Overall, it is recommended to spend at least two to three days in Redwood National Park to fully experience its natural beauty and all that it has to offer.
Conclusion
Redwood National Park is a must-see destination for anyone who loves nature and the great outdoors. The park offers a diverse range of activities for all ages, from hiking and wildlife watching to scenic drives and beach strolls. The stunning redwood trees, beautiful coastline, and diverse range of wildlife make this park one of the best national parks in the United States. So, pack your bags and come experience the magic of Redwood National Park for yourself!
