Redwood National Park

Pictures courtesy of the -Redwood National Park.

Redwood National Park, located along the northern coast of California, is renowned for its towering ancient redwood trees, some of the tallest and oldest living beings on Earth. Established in 1968, the park, together with nearby state parks, protects nearly half of the world’s remaining old-growth redwoods. Beyond its majestic trees, the park offers a diverse array of ecosystems, from lush fern-filled forests to rugged coastlines and pristine rivers. Visitors can explore an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching, all set against the backdrop of these awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Website:	Redwood National Park
Map:	Park Map
Visitor Centers:	Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center: Situated at the southern entrance of the park, the Kuchel Visitor Center features exhibits on the coast redwoods and the park’s diverse habitats. It also provides information on camping, tidepooling, and ranger-led programs, making it a perfect starting point for your park adventure. Hiouchi Visitor Center: Located near the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, this center offers insights into the old-growth redwood forests and nearby trails. Interactive displays and knowledgeable staff help visitors plan their hikes and learn about the park’s natural and cultural heritage. Crescent City Information Center: This center provides visitors with essential information on park regulations, trail conditions, and safety tips. Exhibits highlight the park’s unique ecosystems, the history of the redwoods, and local wildlife, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the area. Prairie Creek Visitor Center: Nestled within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this center offers detailed information about the local trails and wildlife. Exhibits focus on the natural history of the redwoods, and rangers are available to assist with trip planning and provide educational programs.
How to get There:	From the North: To reach Redwood National Park from the north, take US-101 South from Crescent City, California. Continue on US-101 South for approximately 30 miles. Follow signs to the various park entrances, including the Crescent City Information Center and the Hiouchi Visitor Center. From the South: If traveling from the south, take US-101 North from Eureka, California. Continue on US-101 North for about 40 miles. Follow signs to the Kuchel Visitor Center at Orick, California, and other park entrances to begin your exploration of Redwood National Park. From the East: From Redding, California, take CA-299 West towards Arcata, California. Merge onto US-101 North at Arcata and continue for about 30 miles to reach the Kuchel Visitor Center. Follow signs to the various park entrances and visitor centers to start your adventure in Redwood National Park.

Redwood National Park, established in 1968, preserves some of the oldest and tallest trees on earth. These ancient giants, some soaring over 350 feet, form majestic groves that have stood for centuries. The park encompasses over 130,000 acres, including a diverse range of ecosystems such as prairies, oak woodlands, wild rivers, and nearly 40 miles of pristine coastline. This park, in conjunction with the state parks, represents a unique cooperative management effort between federal and state agencies, ensuring the protection of its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Visitors to Redwood National Park are drawn to iconic sites such as the Tall Trees Grove, where some of the tallest redwoods reside. Another must-see is the Lady Bird Johnson Grove, named after the former First Lady, who was instrumental in the park’s dedication. The Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, located within the national park, offers the enchanting Fern Canyon, a lush, fern-covered gorge. Along the coastline, Gold Bluffs Beach provides stunning views and opportunities to observe Roosevelt elk. The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is another popular route, offering breathtaking vistas and easy access to several trailheads and picnic areas.

The significance of Redwood National Park extends beyond its natural beauty. The park plays a crucial role in ecological conservation, protecting habitat for numerous species, including the endangered marbled murrelet and the northern spotted owl. The ancient redwoods are vital for carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change. Additionally, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the California Coast Ranges International Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its global importance. Redwood National Park offers a unique blend of natural splendor and ecological significance, making it an invaluable destination for both recreation and conservation.

Tall Trees Grove: Home to some of the tallest redwoods in the world, this grove offers a serene hiking experience through a forest of towering giants. Permits are required to visit, ensuring a quiet and intimate encounter with these majestic trees.

Fern Canyon: Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Fern Canyon is a stunning gorge with walls covered in lush, green ferns. A short, easy hike through the canyon reveals a unique and magical landscape featured in films like “Jurassic Park 2: The Lost World.”

Lady Bird Johnson Grove: Named after the former First Lady, this grove features a loop trail that meanders through ancient redwoods and offers interpretive signs about the forest. The trail is accessible and provides a great introduction to the park’s majestic trees.

Gold Bluffs Beach: This picturesque beach offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a great spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and wildlife watching. Roosevelt elk are often seen grazing in the nearby meadows, adding to the scenic beauty.

Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: This scenic drive runs through the heart of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, offering breathtaking views of old-growth redwoods. Numerous trailheads and picnic areas along the parkway provide opportunities for hiking and relaxing in the midst of these ancient trees.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: Part of the larger Redwood National and State Parks system, this park features a dense forest of towering redwoods and the crystal-clear Smith River. Popular activities include hiking, swimming, and fishing, with several scenic trails like the Boy Scout Tree Trail offering immersive experiences in the redwood forest.