19 Best hikes in Redwood National Park California

When it comes to the best hikes in Redwood National Park, you’re spoiled for choice. This large national park in California made up of both national and state parks, has numerous trails that take you winding through old growth redwood forest, alongside streams, and along coastal routes.

With every national park in America, we visited during our three-month epic America road trip, we tried to fit in at least one hike. In some national parks, we managed to fit in more than one hike (like in Arches National Park). We did one big day hike in Redwood National Park and a couple of shorter walks to see some of the more famous big trees.

If you’re looking for hikes amongst the California Redwoods then check out the list below which includes easy hikes, moderate hikes, and backpacking trails in Redwood National Park.

Redwood national park trail map

Below is a map I’ve put together for your visit to Redwood National Park. It includes some of the best things to see in the Redwoods as well as the location of all the hikes and trails in Redwood National Park listed below.

You can use this to get your bearings as you plan your trip, but I don’t recommend it as a hiking map for Redwood National Park.

For that, I suggest using a hiking app like AllTrails+ which allows you to download maps to use offline and uses your phone’s GPS to show you where you are when hiking these best Redwoods National Park hiking trails.

Best hikes in Redwood National Park, California

Below is a list of the best hiking trails in Redwood National Park. There’s also park information so you can actually get to these Redwood National Park hikes.

Technically some of these hikes are in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (with the exception of the Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Lost Man Creek Trails) which is slightly north of the area designated Redwood National Park. However, the state parks and national parks in this area are often grouped together so the hikes will be referred to as being in Redwood National Park.

This mix of easy day hikes and harder routes is a great way to experience hiking Redwood National Park.

Circle Trail to Big Tree Wayside

• Distance: 0.3 mile / 0.5 km
• Duration: 5 – 10 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 23 ft / 7 m
• Trail map

The Circle Trail is a great chance to see some of the giant redwood forests in Redwood National Park without having to go on a long hike. It’s a great ‘bang for your buck’ which makes it one of the best Redwood hikes, especially if you’re looking for the best old-growth redwood hikes.

The Big Tree in Redwood National Park or “Big Tree Wayside” as it’s better known, is one of the largest of the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park’s old-growth coast redwoods. This tree is thought to be around 1,500 years old and over 350 feet high!

This is a great hike for kids in Redwood National Park and there is also parking and an accessible trail.

Stout Memorial Grove Trail

• Distance: 0.7 mile / 1.1 km
• Duration: 15 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 33 ft / 10 m
• Trail map

If you’re passing through Crescent City, don’t miss the Stout Memorial Trail. This easy hike, under a mile long is in the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park area.

As you walk, you’ll encounter groves of 300-foot redwoods, offering stunning and immediate views right from the roadside.

The trail is particularly worthwhile during the winter months and shoulder seasons when crowds thin out.

The trail is also right by the Smith River, a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon picnic or a quick, refreshing dip in the summer.

Interestingly, this trail was actually donated by a widow in memory of her lumberman husband, reflecting deep love and respect for these woods.

Founders Grove Nature Trail

• Distance: 0.5 mile / 0.8 km
• Duration: 10 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 33 ft / 10 m
• Trail map

The Founders Grove Nature Trail is a walk through a large area of awe-inspiring forest of giant redwoods.

Unlike some groves, Founders Grove feels endless, with ancient trees stretching out in every direction you look.

Protected by mountains and nourished by the moisture of the nearby Eel River Valley, these trees are truly deserving of being called majestic giants.

This trail is also close to the Avenue of Giants, which is a famous 31-mile road framed by titan redwoods that I recommend going through if you’re driving Highway 101 in Northern California.

Karl Knapp / Prairie Creek and Foothill Loop (Via Big Tree Wayside)

• Distance: 2.4 mile / 3.9 km
• Duration: 45 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 95 ft / 29 m
• Trail map

The Karl Knapp Trail formerly known as the Prairie Creek Trail is one of the best hikes in Redwoods State Park, mostly due to its famous resident, the “Big Tree.”

Towering at 286 feet and 74.5 feet wide, this tree is an unforgettable sight and a highlight of the trail.

You’ll find this massive tree about halfway through the loop and it’s a perfect spot to pause and admire its size.

This easy Redwood forest hike is best experienced in the summer months and if you visit during the rainy season, be mindful of trail conditions, as rain can lead to wet paths or necessary river crossings.

The trail begins at the Prairie Creek Visitor Center and winds along the scenic Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, eventually leading to Big Tree Wayside, another giant of the park.

Wedding Rock Trail

• Distance: 0.3 mile / 0.5 km
• Duration: 10 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 43 ft / 13 m
• Trail map

While not a redwood trail, the Wedding Rock Trail at Sue-meg State Park (formerly known as Patrick’s Point) is one of the best hikes in Humboldt County.

This short walk is easy and takes you to a beautiful overlook along the rugged California coastline (a sign of what’s to come if you continue up the beautiful Oregon Coast!).

Here, you are greeted with views of dramatic sea stacks, impossibly turquoise waters, and (if you’re lucky) some wildlife sightings, including whales, seals, and other sea creatures!

Revelation Trail

• Distance: 0.3 mile / 0.5 km
• Duration: 5-10 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: None
• Trail map

Designed with the visually impaired in mind, Revelation Trail is a unique and sensory-rich experience in the Redwood National Park.

This trail encourages you to touch the textures of the forest, from the rough bark of redwood to the soft, damp moss that clings to firs and spruces. Listen to the peaceful sounds of a creek as you walk, breathe in the sharp aroma of California bay leaves, and taste the tartness of redwood sorrel underfoot.

If you’re traveling the Redwoods with kids this is one of the best trails in Redwood National Park for them as it offers an engaging, hands-on experience that entertains while it educates. So it’s both a fun an educational best redwoods hike.

The Homestead and Bull Creek Trail North Loop

• Distance: 2.6 mile / 4.2 km
• Duration: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 194 ft / 59 m
• Trail map

This trail is one of the more hidden Redwood National Park trails and one of my favorites.

This trail meanders around Bull Creek Flats in Humboldt Redwoods and the drive to the trailhead is an adventure in itself—a 15-minute journey on a narrow, bumpy road through a forest that is home to the largest contiguous stretch of old-growth redwoods!

The highlight of this hike is the cathedral-like grove, one of the most awe-inspiring you can find anywhere in the world.

Even though this trail is slightly off the beaten path, avoiding the crowds of Highway 101 and the Avenue of the Giants, it’s definitely worth the detour.

Fern Falls via Boy Scout Tree Trail

• Distance: 5.2 mile / 8.4 km
• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 951 ft / 290 m
• Trail map

Regarded as a favorite by many, the Boy Scout Tree Trail is a moderately challenging, yet incredibly scenic, hike in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

This 5 mile round trip trail takes you through groves of giant redwoods and a vibrant undergrowth of ferns.

This is one of the redwood hiking trails that offers diverse terrain, including ravines, hills, and valley floors.

Expect to encounter large and unbelievably enormous redwoods, with the trail culminating at the serene Fern Falls.

Although popular and potentially crowded, visiting during the off-season means it’s usually pretty quiet. Also, though the trailhead is down a logging road, this one is generally easily passable with 2WD.

Fern Canyon Loop Trail

• Distance: 1.1 mile / 1.8 km
• Duration: 30-45 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 128 ft / 39 m
• Trail map

The Fern Canyon trail offers different views from most of the other hikes in Redwood National Park. Here you’ll see some amazing ferns which cling to Fern Canyon’s shadowy 30-foot cliffs. They’re ancient species whose ancestry can be traced back 325 million years.

Keep an eye out for velvety five-fingered ferns, dark green sword ferns, and delicate lady ferns.

We joined this up with the James Irvine Trail but couldn’t quite access the canyon due to flooding and freezing river water during our visit. Believe me, I tried!

The trail itself is relatively easy and short—a 1-mile loop—but the journey to the trailhead can be adventurous due to a rougher road.

Waterproof footwear is highly recommended due to frequent wet conditions and cold water temperatures!

Note: There’s an entrance fee between May 1 and September 30, and check the road conditions, especially after rainstorms.

Simpson Reed Trail

• Distance: 0.7 mile / 1.4 km
• Duration: 20 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 52 ft / 16 m
• Trail map

The Simpson-Reed Trail offers a short and sweet immersion into the redwood forest.

At just under a mile long, this easy, family-friendly loop is perfect for a quick stop and stretch during your journey.

The trail follows the bank of the vibrant Smith River, showcasing lush, vibrant scenery, unlike other trails in the park.

While the trail can get quite muddy and rainy during the winter, the summer months bring nicer weather but also more crowds.

Despite its recent relocation to a less visible spot with an unmarked trailhead, it’s still a popular and easy to get to hike, with clear signage from the Hwy 199 pullout redirecting visitors.

Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

• Distance: 1.5 mile / 2.4 km
• Duration: 30 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 102 ft / 31 m
• Trail map

The Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail is a pretty 1.5-mile trail within Redwood National Park where you’ll go through another beautiful grove of old-growth redwoods, Douglas-firs, and tanoaks.

This trail is especially beautiful during the shoulder seasons; springtime brings vibrant rhododendrons and azaleas, while fall showcases vine and big maple leaves.

Named after the former first lady of the United States, Lady Bird Johnson, who dedicated Redwood National Park in 1968, this popular and educational trail is perfect for families.

There’s also a brochure you can pick up a leaflet at the trailhead, which corresponds with marked posts along the trail and provides rich historical context.

Damnation Creek

• Distance: 3.4 mile / 5.5 km
• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Difficulty: Hard
• Elevation: 1 190 ft / 363 m
• Trail map

Despite being relatively short at just over 3 miles long, Damnation Creek offers a challenging hike due to its significant elevation gain. It’s one of the best hikes Del Norte Redwoods State Park has to offer.

This trail weaves through a lush, tree-lined path that leads out to a rugged, rocky coastline.

In the spring, the trail is full of brightly colored wildflowers, such as rhododendrons, which are a cool contrast with the green forest.

James Irvine Trail

• Distance: 10.4 miles / 16.7 km
• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Elevation: 1 420 ft / 433 m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail map

The James Irvine Trail is one of the best redwood trails. This hike takes you alongside Godwood Creek and winds up and down through beautiful redwood forests.

At the end of this trail, you can add the Fern Canyon Loop trail and even visit Gold Bluffs Beach too.

We did this hike after it was recommended to us by the staff at the visitors center and it was awesome. Definitely worthy of being called the best trail in Redwood National Park.

Elk Prairie Trail

• Distance: 3 miles / 5.1 km
• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Elevation: 148 ft / 45 m
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail map

This trail takes you through one of the most heavily populated Roosevelt Elk areas in the Redwood Parks. It gives you an excellent opportunity to do some wildlife spotting of the elk in their natural habitats.

As you walk, keep your eyes peeled for evidence of the elks who have rubbed their antlers on the trees as they pass.

If you’re lucky enough to see one it’s super cool!

Lost Man Creek Trail (bikes allowed)

• Distance: 10.8 miles / 17.4 km
• Duration: 5 hours
• Elevation: 866 ft / 264 m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail map

On the Lost Man Creek trail in Redwood National Park you can’t fail but be amazed by the heights of these giant redwoods.

Walk along an old logging road and wind through a stream valley before crossing a wide bridge to the other side of Lost Man Creek. From this section of the trail, you’ll see five-finger ferns, wild ginger and deer ferns growing and thriving beneath the redwood and tanoak trees.

There’s no obligation to finish the whole length of this trail, most people tend to walk for a few hours or so before turning back.

It’s a very quiet and peaceful trail with not many hikers compared to some of the others on this list so it’s perfect if you’re looking to get away from it all.

Bikes are allowed on this trail which is a great way to do the trail at a quicker pace. But, if you’re hiking just be aware!

Trillium Falls Trail

• Distance: 2.7 miles / 4.3 km
• Duration: 1 hour 15 mins
• Elevation: 449 ft / 137 m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail map

Redwood National Park is not only home to majestic redwoods but also to picturesque waterfalls, and the Trillium Falls Trail is one of the best waterfall hikes in the park.

This trail is still relatively short, and you’ll make your way through the redwood forest until you reach the 10-foot-tall Trillium Falls.

The trail is family-friendly and includes some switchbacks with a modest elevation gain. The forest here is so cool making it one of my favorite redwood forest trails.

Tall Trees Grove Loop Trail

• Distance: 3.6 miles / 5.8 km
• Duration: 2 hours
• Elevation: 781 ft / 238 m
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail map

The Tall Trees Grove Loop Trail is one of the best Redwood National Park hiking trails, offering a mostly out-and-back route with a small loop at the end.

Sitting along this trail on one of its many benches, you can’t fail to be amazed by the redwood trees, including Hyperion, the world’s tallest tree all around you.

The trail begins at the Tall Trees trailhead and descends to the forest floor, following the course of Redwood Creek through lush old-growth redwoods.

Due to the trail’s popularity and to preserve its natural beauty, hikers are required to obtain a free permit in advance, which can be applied for online. The best time to visit the Tall Trees Grove Loop Trail is from April to October.

Backpacking Redwood National Park

Want to do some redwood national park backpacking? There are some great backcountry hikes in Redwood National Park on over 200 miles worth of trails! If you plan on backcountry camping then you’ll need to get a backcountry permit.

They’re free and are issued in person 24 hours ahead of time from the Hiouchi or Kuchel visitor centers. Permits are limited and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.

When planning your backcountry hike in the Redwoods, take a look at the backcountry trip planner to find out what redwood backcountry experiences are best for you. You’ll need to decide where you’re camping in order to get a permit.

You must stay in one of the 7 designated backcountry campsites and be aware that you’ll be camping in areas where mountain lions and bears are present.

The Coastal Trail

The Coastal Trail takes you along a coastal bluff where you’ll hear the sounds of gulls, sea lions, and waves crashing on the beach. If you look out to sea you may spot a grey whale!

And don’t forget to keep a lookout for crabs and starfish in the rock pools!

This trail doesn’t take you through the redwood forest (although you’ll see it) but offers a different experience of sandy beaches and beautiful coastlines along the 70 miles of trail.

The Coastal Tail is nearly continuous in the parks but has one area where you need to take the Highway 101 bridge over the Klamath River.

The Coastal Trail is the premier long-distance backpacking trail in Redwood National and State Parks. It runs for 70 miles along the coastline passing through 3 parks: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Redwood National Park. 

The trail starts at Crescent Beach Overlook in Del Norte Park and heads all the way south to Elk Meadow in Redwood National Park. Hikers can choose to hike the trail in its entirety or simply hike sections of the trail.

• Distance: 70 miles / 142 km
• Duration: 3+ days
• Elevation: Minimal

Redwood Creek Trail

The Redwood Creek trail is one of the most popular Redwood forest hikes in Redwood National Park. It’s 16 miles long so could be done with a long day hiking but is more enjoyable as an overnight backpacking trip.

On the Redwood Creek Trail, you’ll follow the Redwood Creek through a valley lined with ferns and brushy trees before coming to a bridge into Tall Trees Grove at the end of the trail.

Look for the massive Libby Tree at 368ft tall which was discovered by National Geographic in 1963 and is considered to be among the tallest trees in the world!

The Redwood Creek Trail is the most popular backcountry trail in the park and one of the best Redwood National Park hikes. While it could be completed as a day hike, most hikers choose to spend one night in the wilderness to spread out the distance over two days.

The trail takes you along Redwood Creek through old-growth redwood groves. At the end of the trail, the park collides with the Tall Trees Grove trail, home to the tallest tree in the world.

You’ll find no shortage of awesome views on this hike and the solitude will be unlike anything else in the park!

• Distance: 16 miles
• Duration: Overnighter
• Elevation: 152m

5 Best Redwood hikes near San Francisco

If you’re looking for red wood forest near San Francisco, here are the 5 best places to go hiking amongst these ancient trees.

• Muir Woods National Monument – Main Trail Loop: This is a 2-mile loop trail in Muir Woods, which is less than 17 miles from San Francisco. It is one of the most visited old-growth coastal redwood forests in the world. The trail is mostly flat and offers an easy walk through the redwoods.
• Big Basin Redwoods State Park – Berry Creek Falls Loop: Located about 65 miles south of San Francisco, this is a hard 10.5-mile loop trail that leads to the magnificent Berry Creek Falls. Big Basin is California’s oldest state park and is home to the largest continuous stand of ancient redwoods south of San Francisco.
• Samuel P. Taylor State Park – Pioneer Tree Trail: This is a moderate, 2.7-mile loop trail located in Samuel P. Taylor State Park, around 30 miles from San Francisco. The trail takes you through groves of giant redwoods and is family-friendly.
• Portola Redwoods State Park – Peter’s Creek Loop: This is a challenging 13-mile loop located about 40 miles south of San Francisco in Portola Redwoods State Park. The trail passes through deep, shaded redwood forests and alongside the serene Peter’s Creek.
• Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park – Redwood Grove Loop Trail: This is an easy, 0.8-mile loop trail located in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, around 75 miles south of San Francisco. This short and flat trail provides a quick, family-friendly way to experience an old-growth redwood forest.

Please note that distances and travel times may vary depending on traffic and other conditions. It’s also advisable to check for any park alerts or closures before setting out on your hike.

Redwood National Park entrance fees

Redwood National and State Parks are fee-free with the exception of day-use areas within the Prairie Creek Redwoods, Del Norte Coast Redwoods, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Parks.

Fern Canyon is within a day-use area and requires paying a day-use fee per car or showing a federal pass such as the America is Beautiful Parks Pass or the California State Parks Pass.

While Redwood National Park is free, if you’re planning on visiting a few US National Parks over the course of a year then consider buying the annual Parks Pass. 

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

What to pack for hiking in Redwood Forest California

Below is a packing list for Redwood National Park. This list aims to keep you prepared and safe while ensuring you can fully enjoy the stunning scenery as you discover these Redwood National Park best hikes.

Keep in mind that the weather in Redwood National Park can vary significantly throughout the year, so it’s important to plan and pack accordingly.

• Moisture-Wicking Base Layers: These help keep you dry and comfortable while hiking.
• Insulating Layer: For staying warm in cooler temperatures.
• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket: Protects against rain and wind.
• Hiking Pants/Shorts: Comfortable for moving and protecting your legs.
• Long Sleeve Shirt: Offers sun and insect protection.
• Hat/Cap: Shields your face from the sun and helps to keep you warm in cold weather.
• Gloves: Keeps hands warm in cold conditions.
• Hiking Socks: Prevents blisters and keeps feet dry.
• Hiking Boots/Shoes: Provides support and protection for your feet.
• Backpack: To carry all your essentials.
• Trekking Poles: Helps with balance and takes the pressure off your knees.
• Water Bottle or Hydration System: Keeps you hydrated during your hike.
• Map and Compass/GPS: Essential for navigation.
• Headlamp/Flashlight with Extra Batteries: Important for safety, especially if you are out later than planned.
• First Aid Kit: For treating minor injuries.
• Multi-tool or Knife: Useful for a variety of situations, from cutting food to making emergency repairs.
• Firestarter: In case you need to make a fire for warmth or emergency signaling.
• Emergency Whistle and Signal Mirror: For attracting attention in emergency situations.
• Sunscreen: Protects skin from harmful UV rays.
• Insect Repellent: Keeps biting insects at bay.
• Sunglasses: Protects your eyes from UV rays.
• Lip Balm with SPF: Prevents chapped lips.
• Toilet Paper/Wet Wipes: For personal hygiene.
• Hand Sanitizer: Keeps hands clean when water is unavailable.
• Personal Medications: Don’t forget necessary prescription medications.
• Permits and IDs: Needed for identification and to access certain areas.
• Camera/Phone: For taking pictures and emergency communication.
• Binoculars: Enhances wildlife and scenery viewing.
• Lightweight, Packable Lunch and Snacks: Keeps you energized during your hike.
• Notebook and Pen: For taking notes or sketching.
• Trash Bag: Practice Leave No Trace and pack out your trash.

Remember to always check the weather forecast for Redwood National Park before your trip and adjust your packing list accordingly.

Best time to visit the Redwoods National Park for hiking

Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit Redwood National and State Parks for hiking, considering the temperatures and conditions you might encounter in each season:

Spring (March through May):

• Temperatures: Ranging from 40 to 60°F (4 to 16°C)
• Conditions: Spring brings the end of the rainy season and the emergence of wildflowers. Trails are less crowded than in the summer.
• Note: Early spring might still have some wet trails.

Summer (June through August):

• Temperatures: Coastal areas stay cool, ranging from 50 to 65°F (10 to 18°C), while inland areas can get warmer, reaching up to 75°F (24°C).
• Conditions: This is the most popular time to visit, as the days are long and sunny, and all trails are open and accessible. It’s the best time for hiking, but also the most crowded.

Fall (September through November):

• Temperatures: Similar to spring, fall temperatures usually range from 45 to 65°F (7 to 18°C).
• Conditions: Fall can be one of the best times to visit, as the weather is still pleasant but the summer crowds have left. The foliage in the park begins to change, offering beautiful scenery.

Winter (December through February):

• Temperatures: Coastal areas have temperatures ranging from 40 to 55°F (4 to 13°C), while inland areas can be cooler.
• Conditions: Winter is the rainy season. While the park is open year-round, some trails may be muddy, and there is a higher chance of encountering downed trees or other obstacles. Fewer visitors make for a more peaceful experience but be prepared for wet conditions.

The best time to go hiking in Redwood National Park is typically late spring (May) when the wildflowers are in bloom and the trails are drying out, or in early fall (September) when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds have reduced. Summer has the most reliable weather overall, but it is also the most crowded season.

Things to know before going hiking in the Redwoods National Park Ca

Here are some things you should know before hiking in Redwood National and State Parks:

• Opening Hours: Redwood National and State Parks are open year-round, 24 hours a day.
  Redwood national park visitor centers have varying hours, usually from 9 AM to 5 PM.
• Redwood National Park Entrance Fees: There is no entrance fee to visit Redwood National and State Parks, but some campgrounds and day-use areas within the State Parks charge fees.
• Weather: The coastal location results in a cool, damp climate most of the year. Summer highs are around 60-70°F (15-21°C), while winter lows can reach down to 40°F (4°C). Rain is common from October through April.
• Crowds: Summer (June to September) is the busiest season. For fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.
• Different Areas of the Park: Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: Features dense old-growth forests and is located in the northern part of the parks. Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park: Known for its rugged coastline and towering trees, south of Jedediah Smith.
• Trail Conditions: Check current trail conditions at a visitor center or the park’s official website before starting your hike. Some trails may be closed due to weather or maintenance.
• Safety Precautions: Stay on designated trails, carry a map and compass or GPS, and inform someone of your plans before heading out on a hike.
• Wildlife: Be aware of wildlife such as elk and bears. Keep a safe distance and store food properly.
• Pets: Dogs are not allowed on the trails in Redwood National and State Parks. They are allowed only in designated campgrounds, picnic areas, and on some beaches.
• Pack Out Trash: Practice “Leave No Trace” principles — pack out all trash and leave natural and cultural features as you found them for future generations to enjoy.

Please make sure to check the official Redwood National and State Parks website or contact a park visitor center for the most up-to-date and detailed information before your trip.

Where to stay for Redwoods National Park California

Whilst you won’t find a list of where to stay in Redwood National Park, these hotels and inns near Redwood National Park make great options.

This list of the best hotels near Redwood National Park includes some near the town of Eureka which is less than 1 hour’s drive south of Redwood National Park, as well as some in Klamath and Crescent City.

Here’s a selection of some of the best places to stay near Redwood National Park.

• Hiouchi Motel: This motel has private parking and convenient on-site dining with its American cuisine restaurant. The rooms also have mountain views and modern amenities.
• Emerald Forest Cabins: Set in Trinidad, these cabins come with their own kitchen facilities and are in close proximity to two beaches. You’ll have access to a garden, a terrace, and a children’s playground.
• Rock Rose Cottage: With garden views near Luffenholtz Beach, this holiday home provides a full kitchen, free WiFi, and private parking, making it an ideal comfortable base for exploring.
• Stone Lagoon Cabin: Located in Orick, this holiday home provides a serene mountain view setting with a full kitchen, and free WiFi, and is a comfortable place to stay near Humboldt State University.
• Glamping Tent on the River: This glamping experience offers unique and luxurious accommodation with free private parking and various outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking, right on your doorstep.
• Elk Meadow Cabins 11B Roosevelt Elk: Right within Redwoods National Park, this cabin is close to scenic drives and trails but also gives you the unique experience of viewing elk grazing nearby.

Where is Redwood National Park located?

If you’re wondering, like I was when we were driving through this part of the US, “Where is the Redwood forest?” then there are multiple answers.

There are some redwood forests near San Francisco, but the Redwood National Park area is in northern California along the coastline.

It’s about 1.5 hours drive from the Oregon-California border. Roughly 6 hours from Redwood National Park to San Francisco and almost 7 hours from Portland in Oregon.

FAQs about the best hikes in the Redwoods California

Final thoughts on the best hikes Redwood National Park has to offer

As this guide goes to show, there are so many awesome Redwoods National Park hikes. Whether you are an experienced hiker looking for a challenging trail, a family seeking a gentle stroll through the woods, or someone wanting to take in the coastal views, this park has something for everyone.

Ultimately, my pick for the best hike in Redwood National Park is either Prairie Creek or Fern Canyon.

Remember to prepare in advance, respect the park’s regulations, and practice leave-no-trace principles to help preserve this magnificent place for generations to come.

If you’re looking to visit more National Parks on the West Coast of America, be sure to check out this guide to Yosemite National Park, or what to do in the North Cascades in Washington. Mt Rainier National Park is another of my favorites which has so many awesome hikes with Mt Rainier views.

Or, check out all my American travel guides and hiking guides.

Last Updated on August 16, 2023 by Hannah