If you're looking to admire some of the tallest trees on the planet, look no further than Redwood National and State Parks. This system is spread along the northern coast of California with both state and national parks cooperating to give visitors some incredible options for adventure.
Looking up in Redwood National and State Parks
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Though the parks are in a more remote part of California, the scenery and adventure to be had in the area makes them well worth the trip. Another perk? The state parks in the system charge a nominal day-use fee, but the national park areas are completely free to visit. Yes, I said FREE!
Where to Stay
If you're looking to stay in Redwood National and State Parks, your options are camping, camping and more camping. That said, the parks cover over 130,000 acres and include nearly 40 miles of the northern California coastline. That means, you could easily stay in or around one of the small towns in the area and still have easy access to the parks.
Interested in camping? Check out which state parks in the system offer facilities.
If traditional lodging is more your style, you can find nearby community information here.
Looking for a vacation rental or cabin in the area? Click here to view rentals in and around Crescent City, California and use the "map view" feature to see listings all along the coast.
Finding Adventure
Though you won't be dealing with much elevation while you're out exploring Redwood National and State Parks (this is where the redwoods meet the sea, after all), you'll still want to consider the length of your hike or nature walk and the weather. There is a reason the north coast of California stays so green and the redwoods thrive so brilliantly in the area: it rains—a lot. That said, simply packing the proper shoes, relying on layers you can add or remove depending on the shifts in temperature and remembering to pack your map, should serve you well.
Here are a few favorite adventures tucked away in this beautiful stretch of California:
Hiking along any number of trails in the northern and southern portions of the park system is a great way to spend a day (though Enderts Beach is a favorite in the north and Fern Canyon is a spectacular option if you're in the southern end of the system).
The wildlife viewing available in the Redwood National and State Parks is decidedly different from the wildlife in the other parks I've discussed in this Snippet. You see, for just a few months out of the year, you can watch gray whales migrate up and down the coast. It's definitely worth bringing those binoculars if you're heading to this park system. Additionally, Roosevelt elk populate the area between the northern and southern portion of the system. Keep your eyes peeled and you're sure to catch a glimpse! If you're looking for the best viewing spots, click here for more information.
Female Roosevelt elk grazing at dusk.
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Scenic Drives
Similar to the other parks discussed in this Snippet, every road or highway you take in this park system is beautiful. However, I highly recommend getting off of Highway 101 every so often to really get a taste of why this place is so special.
Here are a few favorites:
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: Most drivers cruise right by the signs for this scenic route even though it leads right to groves of ancient redwoods and is actually an alternate route to Highway 101 and will still get you where you need to go. You won't regret taking this slight detour.
Davison Road: This road is a great place to explore at dawn and dusk if you're interested in spotting some of the resident Roosevelt elk that call this area home.
Enderts Beach Road: Just a short jaunt from Highway 101 south of Crescent City, CA, this road dead-ends at an overlook and picnic area and also services as the trailhead for several coastal trails. It's a perfect place to spend an afternoon.