Hiking Trails In Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks, located in northern California, are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth and offer a range of hiking trails for visitors to explore. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, the parks have something for everyone. Here are some of the best hiking trails in Redwood National and State Parks.

1. Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail The Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail is a moderate 1.4-mile loop trail that takes you through a stunning old-growth redwood forest. Along the way, you’ll see some of the tallest trees in the park, as well as ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. The trail is named after former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, who was instrumental in the preservation of the park.
2. Tall Trees Grove Trail The Tall Trees Grove Trail is a challenging 5-mile round trip hike that takes you through a remote and pristine redwood forest. The trailhead is located in the heart of the park, and you’ll need a permit to access it. Along the way, you’ll pass by several giant trees, including the world’s tallest known redwood tree, Hyperion, which stands at over 379 feet tall.
3. Fern Canyon Trail The Fern Canyon Trail is a moderate 1-mile loop trail that takes you through a narrow canyon lined with ferns and mosses. The canyon walls rise up to 50 feet high, creating a lush and verdant oasis. The trail is located near the coast and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
4. Prairie Creek Trail The Prairie Creek Trail is a moderate 4-mile round trip hike that takes you through a scenic old-growth redwood forest. Along the way, you’ll pass by several historic sites, including the Big Tree Wayside, which features a massive redwood tree that is over 1,500 years old. The trail also offers views of the nearby Elk Prairie, which is home to a herd of Roosevelt elk.
5. James Irvine Trail The James Irvine Trail is a challenging 10-mile round trip hike that takes you through a remote and wild section of the park. The trailhead is located near the coast, and you’ll pass by several stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you’ll also pass through a dense redwood forest and cross several streams and bridges.
6. Boy Scout Tree Trail The Boy Scout Tree Trail is a moderate 5.2-mile round trip hike that takes you through a beautiful redwood forest. The trailhead is located near the coast, and the trail follows a stream through the forest. Along the way, you’ll pass by several giant trees, including the Boy Scout Tree, which is over 1,000 years old.
7. Coastal Trail The Coastal Trail is a moderate to challenging 11-mile round trip hike that takes you along the rugged and scenic coastline of the park. The trailhead is located near the coast, and you’ll pass by several stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you’ll also pass through several habitats, including old-growth redwood forest, beach, and grasslands.
8. South Fork Trail The South Fork Trail is a moderate 3-mile round trip hike that takes you through a beautiful redwood forest along the South Fork of the Eel River. The trailhead is located in the southern part of the park, and the trail follows the river through the forest. Along the way, you’ll pass by several swimming holes and cascades.
9. Damnation Creek Trail The Damnation Creek Trail is a challenging 5-mile round trip hike that takes you through a steep and rugged section of the park.