Prairie Creek Redwoods Big Loop Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
7.7 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
152 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Explore the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park by way of the Prairie Creek Redwoods Big Loop. This awesome nature trail wanders through some of the most beautiful groves in the park, offering a magical experience for all to enjoy!

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Route Description for Prairie Creek Redwoods Big Loop Trail

Leading you through primeval temperate rainforests, over charming footbridges across creeks, and boasting the opportunity to see Roosevelt Elk, this trek checks all the boxes. Transport yourself to another world as you wander through the enormous redwoods flanked by lush vegetation and let the fresh damp air fill your lungs. This trek is well-loved, so you will likely have to share the route with fellow adventurers. You can enjoy more tranquility in the quieter hours which are typically in the early morning and in the evening.

Setting out from the trailhead off Prairie Creek Road, the Prairie Creek Redwoods Big Loop tracks the Cathedral Trees Trail in an eastward direction. This route will lead you down a corridor bounded by enormous redwoods and mixed conifers. Follow this path north to the “Big Tree”, where you will merge onto the Foothill Trail. Guiding you over two charming creeks, the Foothill Trail will ultimately come to an end, and you will track west over the Parkway before turning left onto the Prairie Creek Trail at the junction.

The Prairie Creek Trail will lead you past the Corkscrew Tree and along the curves of the gurgling creek. Eventually, you will be guided to the Visitors Center, where you parked—marking the end of your adventure.

Getting to the Prairie Creek Redwoods Big Loop Trail Trailhead

Find the trailhead off Prairie Creek Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Prairie Creek Redwoods Big Loop Trail Elevation Graph

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Prairie Creek Redwoods Big Loop Trail Reviews

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