Hikes in Redwoods National and State Parks
Indulge in some of the world’s oldest and tallest trees in the Redwoods National and State Parks. With over 200 hiking routes through the area—there is an adventure to satisfy everyone. Explore the famous Fern Canyon Loop Trail, which was used in the filming of the 1997 blockbuster The Lost World: Jurassic Park, hike the Cheatham Grove Trail where scenes of the 1983 film, Return of the Jedi were shot, or find Hyperion, the world’s tallest tree of the Tall Trees Grove Loop Trail! Unfortunately, the park is not dog-friendly due to the fragility of the environment and abundance of wildlife, so your pup is going to have to sit this one out.
Unlike many hiking regions in California, the Redwoods National and State Parks are not overburdened by technical treks. Instead, most trails are easy-going and manageable for explorers of all skill levels and ages! Exhibiting the diversity of the area’s flora and fauna and the looming redwoods' enormity, the scenery along these trails is unrivaled in their beauty. Children and adults alike will enjoy the enchanting and primordial ambiance of the lush redwood groves that so famously decorate California’s coast.
The 10 Greatest Hiking Routes in the Redwoods National and State Parks
We took it upon ourselves to compile a list of the best hiking trails in Redwoods National and State Parks, from the most popular treks to the hidden gems and everything in between. Whether you are seeking a fun family nature walk or a dramatic coastal hike, we covered all the bases.
The Fern Canyon Loop Trail is an incredible adventure that wanders through a steep-walled corridor draped with prolific ferns. Wade through the waters of Home Creek and recreate a scene from The Lost World: Jurassic Park as you hike!
Indulge yourself in the beauty of a quintessential redwood grove along the Bull Creek Flats Trail. Leading you through a forest of old-growth trees bound by lush undergrowth and wild mushrooms, this enchanting environment offers a whimsical ambiance.
The James Irvin Trial is a great adventure that exhibits the diversity and beauty of the area’s flora and fauna. Wander through redwood groves and Fern Canyon before the trail opens to the Pacific Ocean—boasting spell-binding views.
Explore a primeval forest along the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail. This fun-family adventure is situated over 305 m above sea level, which often warrants fog, but there is no noise pollution. Our favorite thing about this route is when the mist dances in the sunbeams—nothing can beat it.
The Damnation Creek Trail is an exciting adventure that plunges through an old-growth redwood forest down to a rugged beach. This trek is more technical, demanding the navigation of vertiginous terrain, so it may not be suitable for children.
The Tall Trees Grove Trail is a family-friendly adventure that travels through some of the oldest and tallest redwoods in the world. Hop off the marked path and try to find Hyperion, the world’s tallest tree!
Enjoy the mesmerizing sight of the charming cascades bounded by redwoods along the Trillium Falls Trail. This adventure also boasts the opportunity to see Roosevelt elk grazing in the meadowlands—just make sure to keep a safe distance from them!
The Boy Scout Tree Trail meanders through another magical redwood grove interspersed with mixed conifers, wildflowers, and mushrooms. This route also offers sights of Fern Falls, a lovely waterfall that surges through a moss-draped canyon.
The Klamath River Overlook Hike escapes the tree canopy of the redwoods and opens to the rugged Pacific coastline. Indulge in the breathtaking scenery of the ocean and the Klamath River. Don’t forget to charge your camera—the views are postcard-worthy!
The Cheatham Grove Trail boasts an other-worldly experience, which is probably why it was used as a filming location in the 1983 film, Return of the Jedi. Explore the magical forestlands abundant with redwoods and moss-draped conifers.
When is the Best Time to Visit Redwoods National and State Parks?
Thanks to the Redwoods National and State Park’s proximity to the ocean, this coastal area can be enjoyed year-round. The maritime conditions warrant milder winters and cool summers ideal for hiking, biking, and countless other outdoor activities. If you do head out in the winter months, it is worth noting that the area sees rainier conditions— so bring a raincoat! The best months to explore the National and State Parks are between May and September.
Other Outdoor Activities in the Redwoods National and State Parks
Offering hundreds of trails through the primeval temperate rainforests and along the rugged coastline, the Redwoods National and State Parks is undoubtedly a hiker’s oasis. Not a hiker? No worries, the outdoor pursuits here are abundant! The summer sees the ideal biking, horseback riding, and camping opportunities—Gold Bluff’s Beach Campground is our favorite! Wake up to the sounds of the crashing waves, then head down to the shore to explore the tidal pools!
Residing on the coast, water adventures are also a popular recreational pursuit in the summer months! Explorers can surf, swim, fish, or sea kayak in the chilly waters of the Pacific. Additionally, there are numerous scenic drives, both along the coast and beneath the tree canopy to enjoy! Wildlife spotting is also a popular activity—watch the whale migration, do some bird watching, and hike amongst Roosevelt Elk in the coastal groves.
There is an adventure awaiting you in the Redwoods National State Park no matter the season. So, what are you waiting for? Head out and explore the beauty and diversity of California’s coastal region.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Redwoods National and State Parks
Where are the Redwoods National and State Parks?
The Redwoods National and State Parks reside on the Pacific Coast in Northern California.
Why are the Redwoods National and State Parks famous?
The Redwoods National and State Parks are known for their abundance of old-growth redwoods and sequoias—which are some of the world’s oldest and tallest trees.
Is the world’s tallest tree in the Redwoods National and State Parks?
Yes, the world’s tallest tree—Hyperion—is hidden in the Redwood National Park.
How many hiking trails are there in the Redwoods National and State Parks?
There are well over 200 awesome hiking routes in the Redwoods National and State Parks.
Is there a fee to enter the Redwoods National and State Parks?
While the Redwood National Park is free to visit, certain day-use areas in the State Parks charge an entrance fee which typically costs $8USD.
Are dogs allowed in the Redwoods National and State Parks?
No, dogs are not permitted on the hiking trails in the Redwoods National and State Parks.
Awesome Adventure Tours in the Redwoods National and State Parks
Unfortunately, we have yet to curate an adventure package for the Redwoods National and State Parks but keep an eye out as we are always working on adding more awesome tours to the website! Until then, we encourage you to check out the California Coast Biking Tour or even the Sierra Nevada Tours.
Find Other Amazing Hiking Regions in California
- Death Valley
- Inyo National Forest
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Lassen
- North Bay
- Yosemite National Park
- Stanislaus National Forest
- Sierra National Forest
The Redwoods National and State Parks are a hiker’s paradise—offering an extensive network of routes through some of the most enchanting landscapes. Located on the Pacific Coast of Northern California, the area encompasses three state parks and one national park, which cooperatively protect nearly half of the world’s coastal redwoods, translating to roughly 38,982 acres of old-growth forests. Characterized by primeval temperate rainforests and the Pacific coastline—the stark topographic contrast of the parks makes for an epic natural playground just waiting to be explored.
View Hikes in Redwoods National and State Parks on Map
- Map Data: ©OpenStreetMap
- Tiles: ©CyclOSM
Best Hikes in Redwoods National and State Parks
Yurok Loop Trail
Leading you through lush inland woodlands and along the rugged coast of the Pacific, the Yurok Loop Trail offers the best of both worlds. Though short, this adventure is arguably one of the most scenic hikes in the Redwoods Parks.
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McArthur Creek Loop
Discover the beauty and diversity of Northern California’s coast along the McArthur Creek Trail. This challenging day hike exhibits the topographic variety of the landscape as it leads adventurers through lush redwood stands before opening to dramatic vistas of the Pacific.
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The Farm Trail
Marvel in the scenes of the Pacific whilst exploring the grounds of the WW2 buildings. Built as an unassuming radar and operations station, the cinder block buildings continue to stand today. This short but scenic adventure is sure to please both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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Holter Ridge via Lost Man Trail
The Holter Ridge via Lost Man Trail is a popular mountain biking route in Redwood National Park—but it is open to hikers as well. Wander beneath the tree canopy of mixed conifers, and through the odd redwood stand. This trail makes for a great day hike.