Best Redwood Forests in California
Last Updated on January 22, 2024
Avenue of Giants at Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Avenue of the Giants is one of the most beautiful roads I suggest spending a full day if you plan to hike or a half day if you just come for pictures. The route stretches for approximately 31 miles along old Highway 101 and allows visitors a more leisurely drive. It’s one of the best redwood forests in California and a popular route for travelers who want to experience the grandeur of the redwoods but can’t make a deep hike into the forests.
If you would like to get out and explore some easy and short trails, these are the ones I would recommend:
Founders Grove Nature Trail- For a quick and easy half-mile
trail, this grove is home to the Founders Tree, which is one of the park’s tallest trees. Trail signage will offer insights into the significance and lead the way.
Rockefeller Loop Trail – Just over half a mile. this trail is named after the Rockefeller family, who played a major role in the preservation of the redwood forests.
Mahan Plaque Trail- Adventure for a short easy mile with all ages on this trail. If you want a quieter experience, be sure to head out early in the morning for less crowds.
Grove of Titans at Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park
There are four parks that make up the Redwood National and State Parks, Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Redwoods National Park looks like a completely different part of the world with all the moss and ferns, you would never know you were in a state that is also filled with deserts. While all of the parks at Redwood National Park have a lot to offer, I spent the most time at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and there is so much beauty to enjoy with accessible trails for seeing the redwoods.
If you visit, I would recommend any of these three trails to take in the scenery of the redwood trees. You could even do all three trails in one day as they are easy hikes and not very long!
Grove of Titans Trail
The Grove of Titans Trail in Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park is known for the largest population of known redwoods in terms of wood volume. The rejuvenated boardwalk was engineered to protect sensitive nature so that many visitors can enjoy the parks for years to come without stress to the surrounding environments. This is one of the most impressive redwood trails in California.
Stout Grove Trail at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
They call it one of the world’s most scenic stands of redwoods. You will also see a lot of moss and carpets of fern there. The grove is known for its canopy-like atmosphere, with towering redwoods creating a leafy ceiling that filters sunlight and creates a magically peaceful environment.
Simpson-Reed Trail at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Simpson-Reed Trail differs from other trails in the park. It is very dense, rich with ferns and foliage and looks like a jungle. This is one of my favorite trails in Northern California so far, it is so picturesque! You will find this trail just 11 miles from Crescent City, along a beautiful road, the journey there is worth the visit itself!
A unique perspective to overlook the redwood forests at Klamath River
Enjoy a different persepctive above it all at the Klamath River Overlook. Where the river meets the ocean and no hiking is required o enjoy the beautiful view. You can see everything right from the parking lot but there are also picnic tables if you want to spend some time or bring snacks to enjoy while you take in the scenery.
In Klamath, this roadside attraction is fun for all ages! You can take a gondola ride through the tree tops, walk the redwood groves, and learn about the history and ecosystem of the redwood trees.
Hidden Beach
Finding Hidden Beach feels like learning one of nature’s best-kept secrets
While you are in the Del Norte County area, I highly recommend taking the time to explore Hidden Beach. It is located along Highway 101 with some of the best views of Northern California. There are three trailheads you can utilize to get to this gorgeous beach.
- Stunning 0.5-mile trail that is not visible on Google Maps or AllTrails. To find it, go to the Trees of Mystery North parking lot. There will be Motel Trees across the road. Find a small pullout right near the motel and there will be a trail sign.Â
- Coastal Trail and Yurok Loop is a 2.5-mile round trip. This trail is marked on the maps and considered an easy hike.
- Hidden Beach and False Klamath Rock Trail will be the more advanced route. It is a 7.6-mile round trip moderate hike. This is also marked on the maps and don’t forget to check out Klamath River Outlook on your way!
