Listing 10 of the best things to do in Redwood National Park, California!
Redwood National and State Parks, home to the tallest trees on Earth, offer a breathtaking combination of lush forests, stunning coastlines, and rich history. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this park has something for everyone.
In this guide, I’ve compiled some of my favorite spots and activities in Redwood National Park. From exploring ancient groves and hunting for banana slugs to discovering hidden waterfalls. Let’s dive into the wonders of this magnificent park so you can make the most of your visit!
How much does it cost to enter Redwood National Park?
It is free to enter Redwood National Park! Yes, there is no entrance fee to this park and it’s completely free to drive the scenic roads and hike the glorious hiking trails here!
What is the best month to visit Redwood National Park?
Spring (from April to June) are the best months to visit Redwood National Park. That’s when the trees here are at their most green and photogenic. It’s also one of the quieter times to visit and the roads and hiking trails are typically crowd free.
Your Next Read: Redwood National Park is about 5 hours from San Francisco, one of my favorite city’s in the U.S. If you’re looking for the best things to do in ‘San Fran’ you can check out my guide to spending 3 days in San Francisco! It’s such a detailed guide!
Top Things to Do in Redwood National Park
1. Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree
Located in a privately owned grove operated by the Underwood Family since 1922. The Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree offers a unique experience for visitors. Open from 8:30 am to dusk (weather permitting), it’s a must-see spot for those exploring the area. The grove is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
For $15 USD per automobile or $10 USD for motorcycles and pedestrians, you can drive or walk through the iconic opening carved into this ancient redwood. If your vehicle is too large, don’t worry—there’s a bypass into the parking lot. Make sure to capture some great photos whether you drive or walk through this natural marvel!
2. Giant Statues at the Trees of Mystery
No visit to Redwood National Park is complete without stopping by the iconic Giant Statues at the Trees of Mystery. Here, you’ll be greeted by the towering figures of Paul Bunyan and his trusty blue ox, Babe. Standing proudly at 49 feet 2 inches tall and weighing a whopping 30,000 pounds, Paul Bunyan is a perfect photo opportunity and a fun stop for visitors of all ages.
Beyond the statues, Trees of Mystery offers a variety of attractions, including a gift shop where you can pick up unique souvenirs. Plus, a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal, and a motel for those looking to stay longer. The trails around the park are open and maintained year-round, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk among the towering redwoods any time of the year.
My Tour Recommendation: If you prefer the easy nature of a guided tour then this full-day private tour is my top choice. It includes round-trip transport from Eureka (the closest big town) and includes a secluded picnic lunch and a local guide who will tell you all about the unique flora and fauna found here!
3. Check out the WWII Radar Station
For those who appreciate the quirky side of history, the WWII Radar Station B-71 is a hidden gem along the California coast. During World War II, some buildings were cleverly disguised as homes to conceal their true purpose.
These structures were radar stations, housing army personnel tasked with defending the coastline from potential threats, including attacks from the Japanese. It’s a fascinating reminder of the ingenuity and secrecy of wartime efforts.
Visitors can start at Flint Ridge Camp to reach Radar Station B-71. Hiking the Flint Ridge Trail or camping there is an easy addition to any adventure.
Walk approximately 0.5 miles south along the Coastal Drive (Trail) from the camp’s west trailhead until you reach the WWII Radar Farmhouse Trailhead.
4. Stop by the Visitors Center
Located just off the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway in the heart of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. The Prairie Creek Visitors Center is a fantastic stop for anyone exploring Redwood National Park. This center offers a wealth of information about the park and its history, with exhibits focused on the Civilian Conservation Corps and redwood ecology. It’s also an excellent spot for families, with a junior ranger program to engage younger visitors.
In addition to educational exhibits, the visitors center has a bookstore and retail area where you can find a variety of souvenirs. While I’m not usually a fan of more significant souvenirs, preferring pins and stickers, the fog globe they sell here is worth the splurge. Four years after our visit, it remains a part of our table centerpiece.
Tour recommendation: A cool, new tour is that you can rent an electric bike for 4 hours and explore some of the national park. The company provides free delivery to nearby towns (Eureka, McKinleyville, and Arcata), or for a fee they can deliver to the Redwood National Park. Prices start from $135 USD per person.
5. Go Banana Slug Hunting
Have you ever heard the Ad Council’s Sense of Adventure commercial? Well, I’ve found the banana slug, Steven.
Banana slugs are a fascinating part of the redwood forest ecosystem, and hunting for them can be a fun adventure for all ages. The best time to search for these slimy creatures is in the winter when the ground is still wet, and the air is chilly. During this season, banana slugs are more active and easier to spot.
These slugs play a vital role in the forest by recycling nutrients and speeding up decomposition. Often called the forest’s “trash compactors,” they consume almost anything, from scat to blackberries. Interestingly, they don’t eat redwoods since the trees provide the shade they need to stay cool.
6. Check out the Sea Lions Sunbathing on the Beach
One of the delightful sights at Redwood National and State Parks is the California sea lions. Especially if you visit in the summer after their breeding season in southern California.
The sea lion population along the redwood coast mainly consists of adult and subadult males. These playful marine mammals are often spotted lounging on offshore rocks close to the shore, soaking up the sun, or rolling and porpoising in the surf.
A great spot to observe these charismatic creatures is the Klamath River Overlook. Located near Klamath, California, on the south banks of the Klamath River, this overlook offers a great vantage point for spotting sea lions.
To get there, follow the signs from Highway 101 onto Requa Road and enjoy the scenic drive to the overlook. Keep your eyes peeled; you might just glimpse these fascinating animals in their natural habitat.
7. Get Even More Secluded at Tall Tree Groves
The Tall Tree Groves in Redwood National Park offers a memorable experience for those looking to explore the backcountry. To ensure an uncrowded adventure, access is limited to 50 parties per day, and you must apply online for a reservation.
One of the highlights of the Tall Tree Groves is a remarkable tree you can walk through, providing an up-close encounter with these majestic giants. To reach the tree, you’ll embark on a 4.5-mile (6.5 km) round-trip hike that takes you deep into the forest.
The hike features a total elevation change of 1,600 feet (487 m), so be prepared for a bit of a challenge. It helps to remember that breathtaking views make this trek well worth the effort.
8. Hike to Trillium Falls
As a huge waterfall enthusiast, Trillium Falls is one of the best features in Redwood National and State Parks.
The trailhead for Trillium Falls is located at Elk Meadow, just off Davison Road, about three miles north of Orick. The facilities at the trailhead are excellent, with flush toilets, picnic tables, and ample parking for vehicles of all sizes, including buses, RVs, and trailers. Thanks to its scenic beauty and well-maintained facilities, many rangers recommend this trail as one of the best walks in the park. The hike is just a 1/2 mile from the trailhead making it easier than Tall Tree Groves.
Your Next Read: If you’re traveling with kids and plan to explore San Francisco before visiting the park. Then, check out my guide to the best things to do in San Francisco with kids!
9. Eat Dinner at Elk Watch
One of the must-do activities at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is the Elk Watch, where you can spot Roosevelt elk grazing in Elk Prairie. It’s also not uncommon to see black-tailed deer wandering through this area, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
We were lucky to see elk across the street from our picnic table during our visit—an unforgettable experience! We also appreciated the convenient water access, which allowed us to fill our water reservoir before heading out for more adventures.
If you plan to camp at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, remember that the campground is open year-round, but due to its popularity, reservations are essential from May to October.
10. Take Your Pup to Gold Bluffs Beach
While not all of Gold Bluffs Beach is dog-friendly, the beach portion is! Dogs are allowed on the beach as long as they are on a leash. So, you can enjoy a lovely walk along the shore with your pet by your side.
If you are going with a day pass, timed entry permits are required for day use if you plan to visit between May 1 and September 30. These permits are free and can be obtained online. You will be granted free access if you have a National Parks Pass or California State Parks Pass.
Gold Bluffs Beach is located near Fern Canyon, about six miles off Highway 101 at the end of the unpaved Davison Road.
Farther up the beach, you’ll find the easy 3/4-mile, 20-minute trail loops through Fern Canyon. This steep, 50-foot-high canyon is lined with lush ferns. When taking this trail, waterproof footwear is highly recommended.
Final thoughts!
Redwood National and State Parks provide an incredible opportunity to connect with nature and explore some of the world’s most majestic landscapes. From the towering redwoods to the diverse wildlife and hidden gems like Gold Bluffs Beach and Trillium Falls, there is no shortage of adventure and beauty.
Looking to make the drive from Redwood National Park to San Francisco? Here are some more great adventures to check out.
I am confident that Redwood National Park will leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for a lifetime adventure!
If you’re interested you can check out my guides on Seattle – like how to spend 3 days in Seattle and the best things to do in Seattle for first-time visitors.
Last Updated on September 2, 2024 by snaphappytravel