The Karl Knapp (Prairie Creek) trail in front of Prairie Creek Visitor Center will be closed for maintenance and bridge repair from October 7 to October 31.

Closure: Karl Knapp Trail at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

The Newton B. Drury Parkway is closed to vehicles on the first Saturday of each month from October to May for Hike and Bike Day. The parkway closes on the Friday night before the event and reopens Sunday afternoon.

Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: Hike and Bike Day

Most people know Redwood as home to the tallest trees on Earth. But the Parks also protect vast prairies, oak woodlands, wild rivers, and 40 miles of rugged coastline. People have lived in this verdant landscape since time immemorial. Together, the National Park Service and California State Parks are managing and restoring these lands for the inspiration, enjoyment, and education of all.

View from forest floor looking straight up. Ferns as seen close up and redwood trunks meet.

Fish-eye view of Redwood canopy

Howland Hill Road

Tide pooling at Enderts Beach

Visitors Plan Their Redwood Trip

Visitors chatting with a ranger above a river mouth.

Ranger Program at Klamath River Overlook

Three people stand on a walkway in the trees. It is foggy.

Visitors on walkway to Lady Bird Johnson Grove

A ranger helps a father and son learn about being a junior ranger.

A New Junior Ranger

Visitors pose with one of the widest Redwood trees.

"Big Tree" wayside.

Incoming Tide at  Redwood National Park

Nurse log on the side of a trail.

A small waterfall cascades past different trees

Trillium Falls

Three adults stand and look curiously toward the tree tops

How Tall is that Redwood?

Four adults stand on a trail surrounded by redwood trees

Having fun under the redwoods

Fog surrounds tall redwoods on a trail. A park ranger stands in the distance.

Redwood Ranger in the mist

Gray cobbles on the foreground and 300foot redwoods behind.

Tall Trees Grove from the creek

A footbridge with people crosses a road on a foggy day

Footbridge to Lady Bird Johnson Grove

A trail meanders into a  grove of tall trees. A family is seen  at the far end of the trail.

A family walks in Stout Grove

Waves run-up on a beach, and sea stack rocks are seen in the distance.

Coastline at Redwood National Park

Green ferns cover two natural walls cut by a creek. A calm creek is covered with grey cobbles.

Fern Canyon

A Redwood Grove

A circle of redwood trees with black fire scars.

Fire scarred giants

Young redwood sprouts grow off a horizontal redwood log

Redwoods Resprouting

A trail and bridge crosses a tree-line gully.

Trillium Falls Trail

A visitor stands next to a forest of enormous red and brown colored trees.

Surrounded by old-growth redwoods.

Autumn leaves in the redwood parks

Rugged coastal cliffs drop to blue ocean and waves. Pink flowers in the foreground.

Enderts Beach

Redwood

The national and state parks are always open to enjoy. 
Roads, trails and public access remain open year round.

Some campgrounds and visitor centers are closed - or have reduced hours - in the off-season (October-May)

Operating Hours

Hiking

Looking for tall trees, a beautiful creek, and a perfect loop hike? This is it.

An Easy and Rewarding Loop Trail. Note: In late 2021, the Prairie Creek Trail was renamed the Karl Knapp Trail. Future signs, publications, and maps will show that name change. This flat 2.5 mile (4 km) trail meanders along a babbling creek and under some of the tallest redwood trees in the world. You can take a trip through history with information panels along this loop. This loop is a combination of three, connected trails: <ol> <li>Karl Knapp Trail</li> <li> Foothills Trail </li> <li>Cathedral Trees Trail (only a few hundred feet of it)</li> </ol> We recommend that you grab a free Prairie Creek State Park brochure before beginning this walk. There are many other trails that lead off from this loop. Free maps are available at our visitor centers. Prairie Creek Visitor Center is the closest visitor center to this trail. Want to learn more about this trailhead? Visit <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/karlknapploop.htm">"Trailhead: Karl Knapp (Prairie Creek) to Foothills Trail Loop."</a>   <hr /> <h3>Navigating This Loop:</h3> Karl Knapp Trail Section: The Karl Knapp Trail begins next to the Prairie Creek Visitor Center. Head north on this trail. On the bridges, be sure to look down to see what might be swimming. In autumn, large Coho salmon can be seen spawning in Prairie Creek.After a mile, the Karl Knapp Trail forks east. You should follow any signs for the "Big Tree." You need to cross the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway to continue walking towards the Big Tree Wayside. Please watch for cars or bikes before crossing. Foothills Trail Section: After crossing the parkway, you will now be on the Foothills Trail. Turn right (heading south) to the "Big Tree". Once you pass the Big Tree Wayside, keep heading south on the Foothill Trail following signs for the visitor center. This part of the Foothills Trail is parallel to the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. Catherdral Trees Trail Section: At the southern end of the Foothills Trail, you will continue your walk on the Cathedral Trees Trail. Head west on the Cathedral Trees Trail for a few hundred yards crossing the parkway back to the Prairie Creek Visitor Center.You should be heading right back to where you started. One final crossing over the scenic parkway is needed to finish up the loop. Please watch for cars or bikes before crossing.You can do this loop in either direction! For this recommendation, we are walking the loop clockwise starting from the trailhead at Prairie Creek Visitor Center. <hr /> <h3>Trail Elevation and Grades:</h3> <ul> <li>The 1.2 miles (1.9 km) of the Karl Knapp (Prairie Creek) Trail has a 99-foot elevation change. Typical grade is 3%, typical width is 5-feet wide and the trail surface is compact gravel.</li> <li>The 1.2 miles (1.9 km) of the Foothill Trail has a 77-foot elevation gain and a typical grade of 3%. The trail is made of soil/aggregate and typically is 5-feet wide. </li> </ul>

Located in the southern third of the parks, this family-friendly loop trail takes you under some of the tallest trees in the world and follows along a beautiful creek. There is parking, restrooms, and picnic tables located near Prairie Creek Visitor Center.

Walk the Karl Knapp (Prairie Creek) to Foothill Trail Loop

Fish

Foothills, Plains and Valleys

Coniferous Forests

River and Riparian

A large metal sign with information about the nearby trails

Prairie Creek North Trailhead

Moorman Pond Trailhead is 3.5 miles north of Prairie Creek Visitor Center on the Newton B. Drury Parkway.

Walk along flowing Prairie Creek before ascending to ridgetop views. Start this 3.9-mile (6.3 km) loop by heading south on Prairie Creek Trail, with views of the park's namesake creek and its rich salmon-spawning gravels. Zig Zag No. 1 climbs 600 feet (185 m) to West Ridge Trail where, continuing north, streams of sunlight highlight the ridgetop forest. Return to the trailhead via a steep descent on Zig Zag No. 2. Parking: Limited dirt parking at Moorman Pond Trailhead 3 1/2 miles north of the Prairie Creek Visitor Center on Newton B. Drury Parkway. May not be suitable for larger RVs and trailers. Difficulty: This loop includes two very steep sections, each progressing 600 feet over 1/2 mile. The terrain is compact dirt and may be wet and muddy. You may need to go over large roots and possible debris.   <h4>Safety Tips</h4> <ul> <li> Use a good map and trail guide for your adventures in Redwood National and State Parks. Don’t rely on online maps. </li> <li> To protect the habitats, leave no trace also means staying on the developed trail. Please don’t go off trail or make any new trails. These forests grow by the inch, and will die by your foot. </li> <li> To protect the wildlife (and you and other visitors), pets are not allowed on park trails. </li> <li> Cell coverage is very limited and cannot be relied on in an emergency. Have a plan for checking in and checking out with a friend when you are here. </li> </ul>

Walk along flowing Prairie Creek before ascending to ridgetop views in Prairie Creek State Park.

Hike Zig Zag Loop

Forests and Woodlands

Trails

Wildlife Watching

A group of visitors are watching elk from a safe distance

Watching elk from a safe distance

Roosevelt Elk can be spotted throughout the park, but are most often found near Orick, Elk Meadow, Elk Prairie/ Prairie Creek Visitor Center, and south of Crescent City.

Roosevelt elk, one of the largest members of the deer family, are the most easily observed wildlife in the parks. You can find elk throughout the parks, mostly in herds feeding in open, grassy areas. Bring binoculars or use your camera's zoom feature for the best views! Remember: Elk are dangerous, unpredictable, and can be aggressive, especially during the fall mating season. Always give elk plenty of space (25 yards, or 1/4 of a football field), whether you watch them near the roadside or encounter one on a trail.  Pets are permitted in parking and picnic areas, but must be on a leash (6 ft max) at all times. <h4>Orick</h4> Elk are often spotted around the town of Orick near the parks' southern end. Much of the land here is private property, so please stay aware of park boundaries as well as highway traffic. <h4>Elk Meadow</h4> This meadow is a popular spot for elk herds and is near several trails and a picnic area. Turn left onto Davison Road 3 miles north of Orick. Several pull-outs provide parking as well as information exhibits about elk. Continue along the road for less than a mile to reach the picnic area, restroom, and trails. <h4>Elk Prairie/ Prairie Creek Visitor Center</h4> Head to Prairie Creek Visitor Center to see elk, in addition to ranger-led tours, visitor information and educational exhibits, park store, restroom, and picnic area. From Orick, take exit 753 from Hwy 101 for Newton B. Drury Parkway. Use the pull-outs along Elk Prairie for parking and informational exhibits. Parking is also available near Prairie Creek Visitor Center. Crescent City Area Elk are less common in the northern area of the parks, but can sometimes be seen south of Crescent City near Enderts Beach Road. This area is generally outside of park boundaries, so please stay aware of private property boundaries as well as highway traffic. Roosevelt Elk Information Males sport large antlers in late summer through winter. Females are smaller in stature and have no antlers. The rut, or mating season, occurs in fall. Calves are born in grassy, open areas in May and June. Cows and their young live in loose herds, while bulls live alone or in “bachelor” groups until the mating season. Elk communicate by bugling, which is a combination of roaring and whistling at the same time. Elk prefer “edge” environments, such as grassy fields near forested areas, which offer quick protection from lurking predators or poor weather conditions. This species is also seasonally migratory, traveling from higher elevations in the summer months to valleys in the winter in search of food and shelter. Learn more <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/roosevelt-elk.htm">online</a> or at Prairie Creek Visitor Center.

Pets are allowed in parking and picnic areas, but must be on a leash (6 ft max) at all times.

Watch Roosevelt elk at Redwood National and State Parks

Watch Wild Elk

Animals

Grasslands

Natural Sounds

Scenic Views

Bridges

Biking

A sandy beach with kelp stands and a tree-covered cliff in background

Gold Bluffs Beach near Ossagon Creek

Begin the loop at Ossagon Trail at milepost 132.9 on Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. You can also do the loop by starting at Elk Meadow Day Use Area.

Follow a 19-mile loop through old-growth redwood forests to the Pacific coast and back. The route combines Ossagon Trail, Coastal Trail (Gold Beach Section), Davison Road and Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. Note: E-bikes and pets are not allowed on the trails in this loop. Begin at the Ossagon Trailhead at milepost 132.9 on <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/nbd.htm">Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway</a>. This 1.8 mile (2.5km) trail climbs (and then descends) about 700 feet. Watch for flooding, mud, and fallen branches. From there, turn south onto Coastal Trail (Gold Beach Section). Continue for approximately 6 miles before turning east: Look for the Coastal Trail Access spur to connect to Davison Road. Follow Davison Road about 3.5 miles to Davison Trail (across the road from Elk Meadow Day Use Area). Watch for cars. This gravel road includes steep inclines and sharp curves. Bike north on Davison Trail for 3 miles to reach Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway near Elk Prairie Visitor Center. Continue for about 5.5 miles to return to Ossagon Trailhead.   Note: For a slightly shorter route, at aproximately 1.6 miles turn left onto Streetlow Creek Trail. This 1.8 mile trail will reconnect with the loop on Davison Trail.   <h4>Safety Tips</h4> <ul> <li> Use a paper or downloaded map and trail guide for your adventures in Redwood National and State Parks. Don’t rely on online maps when you are here. </li> <li> Leave no trace also means staying on the developed trail. Please don’t go off-trail and make any new trails. These forests grow by the inch, and will die by your foot. </li> <li> Protect the wildlife (and you and other visitors): keep your distance. </li> <li> Cell coverage is very limited and cannot be relied on in an emergency. Have a plan for checking in and checking out with a friend when you are here. </li> </ul>

Follow a 19-mile loop through old-growth redwood forests to the Pacific coast and back. The route combines Ossagon Trail, Coastal Trail (Gold Beach Section), Davison Road and Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.

Bike Redwoods to Beach on the Ossagon Trail Loop

Meadows

Logging and Timber Cutting

Oceans

Unique Species

Endangered

Lost Man Creek Bike Trail

<h2>Ride Through A Landscape In Recovery</h2> Lost Man Creek flows through a landscape greatly changed from the 1960s when much of this area was clearcut logged. What used to be a logging road has been converted into a hike and bike trail. Lost Man Creek trail is now a narrow single-track mountain-biking trail. The first couple of miles is in old-growth redwood groves. This trail can be completed as a 22-mile ride that loops back to the Lost Man Creek parking lot. This loop requires riding on HWY 101. To avoid biking on the highway, we recommend turning around at Bald Hills Road for an out-and-back trail. Heading east from the trailhead, you will find an interpretive sign showing the location where Redwood National Park was formally designated as a United Nations World Heritage Site in 1980. The first mile of the trail is gentle as it follows a fork of Lost Man Creek. You will ride over several salmon-friendly bridges that were installed in the 1990s. These bridges are part of ongoing <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/learn/nature/riperianrestoration.htm">riparian restoration</a> efforts to allow damaged river and stream habitats to recover from the impacts of being buried for decades by logging debris.  The trail then enters second-growth forests and it starts it's 3,000 foot climb up to Holter Ridge where it then connects to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/drivebaldhillsrd.htm">Bald Hills Road</a>. In recent years, lots of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/learn/nature/forestthinning.htm">forest restoration</a> work was completed in the second-growth forests along Holter Ridge. In the decades to come, these once unhealthy forests will be able to grow into vibrant redwood forests. <h4>Safety Tips</h4> <ul> <li>This trail is also a hiking trail. Be alert for pedestrians.</li> <li>Stay alert when riding along HWY 101. Consider wearing visibility gear or lights.</li> <li>Use a paper map and trail guide for your adventures in Redwood National and State Parks. Don’t rely on online maps when you are here. You can pick up a trail map at the nearest visitor center.</li> <li>Leave no trace also means staying on the developed trail. Please help our parks; don’t go off-trail and make any new trails. These forests grow by the inch, and will die by your foot.</li> <li>To protect the wildlife (and you and other visitors), pets are not allowed on park trails.</li> <li>Cell coverage is very limited and cannot be relied on in an emergency. Have a plan for checking in and checking out with a friend when you are here.</li> </ul>

Lost Man Creek flows through a landscape greatly changed from the 1960s when much of this area was clearcut logged. What used to be a logging road has been converted into a hike and bike trail. Lost Man Creek trail is now a narrow single-track mountain-biking trail. The first couple of miles is in old-growth redwood groves.

Bike Lost Man Creek Trail

Colonization and Settlement

Industry

Rare

Westward Expansion

An Easy Walk Through A Famous Grove This 1.5 mile (2km) loop is located ten minutes drive north of Orick on the Bald Hills Road. It is a popular first (or last) walk in the redwoods for visitors because it is on the southern end of the park.  Many people complete the whole loop and enjoy visiting the plaque dedicated to Lady Bird Johnson - who in her role as First Lady - actively promoted the protection and creation of natural habitats. An descriptive interpretive tour is availableon the park app. The 2.5 mile drive up Bald Hills Roads to the parking area is windy, bumpy, and narrow - care must be taken because heavy trucks use that road. Because of the road's conditions RVs and trailers are not advised. The parking area has limited space and it often is full from summer mornings to late afternoon. Parking on the side of Bald Hills Road is not safe and not allowed. Vault toilets are provided at the parking lot.

In winter, check park alerts for rain and snow. Bald Hills Road may close for storms. In summer fog is common.

An iconic redwood grove in the southern end of the parks that is easy to walk. RVs and trailers are not advised on the narrow mountain road leading to this trailhead.

Walk the Lady Bird Johnson Grove

Rainforest

Presidents

Women's History

A ranger stands on a metal boardwalk next to redwood trees.

Grove Of Titans

Located in the northern part of Redwood National and State Parks, the main trailhead is located on the eastern side of Howland Hill Road in Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park

An Old Favorite With A New Elevated Boardwalk  Located in the northern part of Redwood National and State Parks, this trail was completed in summer 2022 to allow sustainable access to a group of ancient redwood trees named for their remarkable shape and size. The grove contains many tall and wide redwoods with complex features and fascinating adaptations.   The main trailhead is located on the eastern side of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/drivehowlandhillrd.htm">Howland Hill Road</a> in Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park. Best access is from HWY 199 near Hiouchi, California. This 1.5 mile ( 2km) loop trail also connects to the Mill Creek Trail. Known by indigenous people for thousands of years, the group of trees was "re-discovered" and named by researchers in the late 1990's. Then, with the arrival of GPS and online search engines, these trees became a destination for many visitors seeking "The Titans". Much damage was then done to the forest floor by well-meaning visitors seeking adventure. 1,500 feet of elevated boardwalk has been built to protect the forest floor and to allow for safe and easier viewing of the redwoods at the site. There are steps on the boardwalk and the trail is not ADA accessible. Funding for the expensive boardwalk and interpretive exhibits was led by <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/getinvolved/supportyourpark/coopassociation.htm">Redwood Parks Conservancy</a> and <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/getinvolved/strl.htm">Save The Redwoods League</a>. Parking on Howland Hill Road is very limited in summer. No recreational vehicles or vehicles towing trailers are allowed on Howland Hill Road.

A trail in the north that has an elevated metal boardwalk to protect the forest floor. Interpretive waysides explore the area's human and natural history. There is no parking for recreational vehicles or vehicles towing trailers.

Hike to the Grove Of Titans

One of the parks' longest hike for those wanting to strat and end at the same location. Great forest and ocean experiences all in one day.

Praire Creek Visitor Center is the start of the trail.

All Day Hike Through Redwoods to the Ocean and Back A favorite and convenient series of trails for those ready and able to spend the whole day hiking. Hikers will follow creeks, see different kinds of forests and be rewarded by finding the Pacific Ocean. This 12-mile (19 km) loop starts and ends adjacent to the Prairie Creek Visitor Center - all hikers should pick up a hiking map for these trails from any <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm">park visitor center</a>. The first section of the 4.5 mile (7.2 km) James Irvine Trail will be in old-growth redwood forests before entering the spruce forests of the coast. On the western (coastal) end of the James Irvine trail it connects briefly with the Friendship Ridge Trail, and then onto the Fern Canyon Loop Trail. This will lead hikers through the dripping walls and stream cobbles of Fern Canyon and finally onto Gold Bluffs Beach - this is the ultimate turn around point. You can return back to the Prairie Creek Visitor Center on the same series of trails, or make a longer loop by heading 1.5 miles (2.4 km) south on Davison Road and taking the 4.1 mile (6.5 km) Miners Ridge trail back to the Praire Creek Visitor Center area. There is limited full-day parking near the Prairie Creek Visitor Center, but there is parking for any sized vehicle along Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.

Winter will be very rainy and windy with the possibilty of falling trees along the trail. Winter rains may flood Hope Creek and make crossing through Fern Canyon dangerous. Hikers' bridges in Fern Canyon are only installed in summer.

One of the longest hikes in Redwood National and State Parks, this 12-mile loop will take you from Redwoods, through spruce forests to the ocean - and back.

Hike the James Irvine Trail to Fern Canyon Loop

Prairies

Watersheds

Easy walk to large old-growth redwood trees.

Parking for this site is towards the southern end of the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway - about half a mile north of the Prairie Creek Visitor Center.

Quickest Way To See Some Really Big Trees Located in Prairie Creek State Park and just off the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, this is an easy walk to stunning old-growth redwood trees. A viewing platfrom and interpretive signage is located around the "Big Tree".   The walk to the Big Tree is less than 200 yards (100 meters) from the parking area. This location is popular with visitors, tour groups or charter busses that have less than half an hour to experience any redwoods. Limited RV and trailer parking is available. Detailed trail information and audio boxes are located at the trailhead so people can hear from Yurok elders about redwood trees. Vault toilets are located at the parking area.  Other short walks like the 15-minute "Circle Trail" are found next to the Big Tree.

Winter will be rainy and very wet. Summer morning fog is likely.

For those short on time then this 5-minute walk will lead to some amazingly large trees.

Stroll to the Big Tree Wayside

Native American Heritage

A Short Walk in the Northern Part of the Redwoods

An Easy, Short Trail In The Northern Part of the Parks If you are driving on HWY199 between Crescent City and Hiouchi, this level walk is a good option for those short on time or energy - and if you have a smaller vehicle. There is no parking for RV's or vehicles with trailers. Located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, this 0.8 mile (1.3 km) trail is beautiful. It takes you around redwood groves, creeks, nurse logs, ferns, hemlocks, huckleberries and a wide variety of other forest features and creatures. Interpretive wayside panels on the trail provide information on the natural and cultural history of the area. You can access the trailhead by taking the Walker Road exit off HWY 199 - this is a turn to the north. For many people it is a sharp and hidden turn-off. After the turn-off it is about 0.1 mile up Walker Road before you get to the trailhead on the right.  Vault toilets and limited parking is available.

An easy walk through beautiful old-growth redwood forests in the northern part of the parks. Limited parking, RV's and trailers not permitted.

Stroll the Simpson-Reed Trail

Park at the Davison Parking Lot on Davison Road off of Hwy 101. You can also reach Trillium Falls by connecting from Davison Trail.

A Highly Recommended Walk For the Whole Family Located in the south of the parks, this is a family-friendly hike through old-growth redwoods, maples, past trillium flowers, ferns, and fir trees... with a small waterfall too! There are some switchbacks and an elevation gain of 200-feet to reach the falls. The trailhead is located at Elk Meadow - just off Davison Road, three miles north of Orick. There are flush toilets, picnic tables and it has parking for vehicles of any size (busses, RV's, and trailers included). Because of the scenic beauty of the trail, and facilities at the trailhead, many rangers recommend this as one the best walks in Redwood National and State Parks. At the parking area, there is a good chance of seeing one of the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/safety.htm">Roosevelt elk</a> herds that live in the park.  Trillium Falls is 1/2 mile from the trailhead and is a great photo stop and turn-around point. To protect the vegetation at the waterfall please stay on the hikers' bridge. If you wish to spend more time under these giant trees, then you can do the full loop (back to the parking area) in less than 3-miles (5km). This extra section climbs and decends several hundred feet more.

Located in the southern end of the parks this is arguably one of the best family-friendly walks. It also has plenty of parking, picnic tables and restrooms.

Hike to Trillium Falls

Freshwater Springs

Waterfalls

A Moderate Hike In The North This rewarding hike though old-growth redwoods is popular for those in the north wanting a bit of a challenge. Located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, a twisting but scenic drive leads to this 5.5 mile round trip trail. During the walk, you will follow riperean areas, see "Fern Falls" and lots of big trees. The shortest drive to the trailhead starts southeast of Crescent City at the Elk Valley Road. From this road you will need to take your vehicle east for 3.5 miles along the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/drivehowlandhillrd.htm">Howland Hill Road</a> which is a dirt, windy road. Howland Hill Road is not suitable for trailers or motor homes. Trailhead parking is limited.

Pets are not permitted on trails. Service animals are welcome.

Winter storms and fallen trees may make Howland Hill Road unpassable. 

A moderate hike with some steep grades and switchbacks.

Hike the Boy Scout Tree Trail

A free permit required - these are issued from our visitor centers on the day of your Tall Trees trip.

Tall Trees hikers must fist pick up a free permit and get the gate combination from rangers at a park visitor center.

Half Day Adventure To A Celebrated Grove  Visitors wishing to go to the Tall Trees Grove must <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/talltreespermits.htm">apply online for a free reservation </a>These are limited to 50 parties for each day, and permits are issued up to 24-hours ahead of time. Tall Trees permits are no longer issued in person at our visitor centers. This 4.5-mile (6.5km) round trip backcountry hike with a total 1,600 feet (487 m) elevation change is frequently written about in blogs, international publications, and by travel writers. As a result, this trail gets a lot of attention - but this hike is not for the faint of heart - or for people short on time. The Tall Trees Trail is a moderately strenuous hike that descends 800-feet down to the alluvial floodplain of Redwood Creek. The grove has plenty of water, good soil, and protection from winter winds and as a result has many redwood trees that exceed 350 feet (106 meters) in height. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/hyperion.htm">Remember to stay on trail. </a> Luckily, there are many other trails in the redwood parks that are easier to access and physically easier to hike. These other trails will also will lead you to equally beautiful old-growth redwood groves. If you want our best suggestion for an alternative to the Tall Trees Trail, we suggest the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/prairie-creek_foothill-trail.htm">Prairie Creek-Foothill Trail Loop</a>. It is very easy to get to, it has redwoods just as tall, and that loop is much easier on the knees and heart. The grove was featured in a famous 1963 National Geographic Magazine article that helped propel a public push for the creation of Redwood National Park. The tallest tree in the world is not located in the Tall Trees Grove. After the discovery by the National Geographic survey team, the tree known as the Libby Tree, or "Tall Tree", held the title until 1994 when the top died back, dropping it down to the 34th tallest tree on the planet.  Be Prepared: Make sure you have food, water, sturdy shoes, raingear, and a flashlight. Access: Allow a 1-hour drive (including 7-miles on a dirt road) from the nearest visitor center to the trailhead. The road to the Tall Trees trailhead is a narrow and windy. The small parking lot does not accommodate RVs over 21 feet or vehicles towing trailers. There is a locked gate at the top of the road to manage the traffic and to avoid overcrowding. We recommend that visitors do not rely on digital maps to find your way to the gate - digital map accuracy and data coveage in our area is poor. Park rangers will provide good directions when you get your free online permit. Two vault toilets, a shelter, and information and interpretive panels are located at the trailhead.

A free <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/talltreespermits.htm">Tall Trees Grove permit</a> is required. These are only issued online.

A half-day hike in the southern part of the parks for those ready for an adventure. A free reservation is needed. This trail is one the more strenuous hikes in Redwood National and State Parks.

Hike to the Tall Trees Grove

A California State Park entrance fee is required. $12 per vehicle. State passes accepted. All Federal "America The Beautiful " passes will be accepted.

A cobbled stream cuts into fern covered walls.

A Popular Destination That Comes With Challenges: Wild Elk and Stream Crossings If you plan to drive to Fern Canyon from May 15th - Sept 15th, you will need to apply online for - and have been issued - a free <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/ferncanyonpermits.htm">Gold Bluffs Beach / Fern Canyon parking reservation.</a> Read the official <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/learn/news/gbbpermits.htm">news release</a> about how we are protecting this area with timed-entries. Summer visitors will now have a safer and much less crowded experience at Fern Canyon. Note: Hikers can still access Fern Canyon by doing the 10-mile round-trip hike on the James Irvine Trail from the Prairie Creek Visitor Center without a reservation. Prepare to get your feet wet when exploring this short hike into a stunning mini-canyon covered with ferns. This is a very popular walk up a cobbled creek, Home Creek, located east of Gold Bluffs Beach, walking through the creek and climbing over fallen trees is necessary to walk up the canyon. Many travel writers and bloggers are correct when they talk about the natural beauty of this area while you won't find huge redwoods right here it is surrounded by sitka spruce and other conifers. The trail can be done as a 1-mile "lolly-pop" loop with an elevation gain of 150 feet, or hikers can stick to the bed of Home Creek and within quarter of a mile see the steep, leafy walls of Fern Canyon. This in-and-out option has a 30-foot elevation change. Either of these options mean climbing through log jams that have formed due to trees falling into the canyon. Normally from June to September there are wooden footbridges installed in Fern Canyon to help walkers get partway up Home Creek without getting their feet too wet. Our advice is to wear waterproof footwear with good traction, and bring a pair of dry shoes to wear after the hike. Be aware that the winding Davison Road (a gravel road) is not suitable for large recreational vehicles or anything towing a trailer. Also, people driving low-clearance vehicles often get stuck when trying to drive through the two streams on the way to the Fern Canyon parking area. There is a California State Park entrance station on the way out Davison Road where you need to stop and pay the $12.00 entrance fee (per vehicle). Cash or check only for payment, credit cards are not accepted. California State Parks or the America the Beautiful (federal) passes are honored at this kiosk.  A herd of Roosevelt Elk are often spotted around the Fern Canyon area. It is important to keep your distance - don't approach them for any reason. Calving season is from late May to early June, which is when the female (cow) elk are very protective of their babies. Female elk might not have big antlers but they will kick and stomp anyone who gets too close. August through October is the rut season which means the male (bull) elk are especially irritable. Not only will the males use their antlers to protect their group of females, but they can also kick, stomp, and charge at anyone who gets too close (including vehicles). Year-round you should give the elk as much space as possible, at least a school bus length between you and the elk.  <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/learn/nature/roosevelt-elk.htm">Learn how to be safe around elk</a>. Before you set off to visit Fern Canyon, be sure to check <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/conditions.htm">current conditions</a> and make sure that the roads are open - or to see if the seasonal footbridges have been installed. Vault toilets and picnic tables are availble in the Fern Canyon parking area. There is also beach access from this parking area.

May 1st - Sept 30th a free online <a href="https://www.redwoodparksconservancy.org/permits/fern-canyon-permits">Fern Canyon parking permit</a> must be applied for - and issued - before arriving at the Gold Bluffs Beach entrance station.

A unique, beautiful, and popular location in the park. Getting here does require some planning, reservations are required May 15th through September 15th (available online), there are two (2) stream crossings that you have to drive through, and your feet will get wet. Definitely an adventure!

Walk the Fern Canyon Loop Trail

Geology

Scenic Driving

The parkway parallels HWY 101 inbetween bewteen Klamath and Orck. From the north take exit 765, from the south take exit 753.

If you have only one chance to see redwoods, then don't miss this! Any vehicle of any size can be on this road. Found in the southern third of the parks, the ten miles of the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway will likely be one of the most stunning drives, or rides of your life. Allow for at least 20-minutes without stopping to drive the length of this. Make sure you get off HWY 101 to see miles of big trees - you won't find too many redwoods anymore along HWY 101. To get onto the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, take either exit 765, or exit 753. Located in the heart of Prairie Creek State Park, the road gently takes you past thousands of acres of old-growth redwood forests. If you want to step out of your vehicle for a few minutes (or days) to explore, there are plenty of well-marked trails and pullouts for vehicles of all sizes along the parkway. The <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm#CP_JUMP_281936">Prairie Creek Visitor Center</a> is located towards the southern (lower) end of the parkway. With 95% of the world's redwood trees having been logged in the last century, old-growth redwood groves are now only found in smaller, isolated places. Except for Avenue of the Giants (a similar road 100-miles to our south), there is nowhere else in the world a driver of any vehicle can have this kind of experience. Can you image in the late 1800s before industrial logging - not having just ten miles of this kind of redwood experience - but two hundred miles?  The parkway is named for a man who spent 40-years of his life preserving these kinds of forests. Newton Drury and was instrumental in the 20th century for securing hundreds of thousands of acres as parklands. A fitting symbol of the continuing partnership between the National Park Service, California State Parks, and Save the Redwoods League, Drury served as director of all three organizations during his career. Bike and Hike Day From autumn to spring (October to May) we close the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway to motorised vehicles on the first Saturday of each month. This Bike and Hike Day is poplular with hikers, leashed-pets, strollers, and people with all sorts of wheels under their feet.

<a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/pets.htm">Leashed pets</a> are allowed on the parkway.

In winter, the parkway is often closed for days at a time due to fallen redwood trees or ice on the road. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/conditions.htm">Park alerts</a> will advise on current conditions.

A ten mile drive through the heart of the redwoods. You have to exit HWY 101 to see the big redwoods.

Drive the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway

Roads, Routes and Highways

$8 fee for parking at the day use area at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

A Short Walk With An Adventure To Get There These 300-foot trees are considerd by many as the heart of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. This majestic 44-acre grove of old-growth redwoods is a popular summer destination for those willing to take on the challenge of getting there.   The trail is a short 0.5 mile (0.8 km) in length and the grove is on the edge of the beautiful Smith River. A short spur trail decends down twenty feet to the Smith River. In summer many people picnic, paddle, and swim at this cobbled beach. In summer this is where the hikers' bridge crosses the Smith River. Getting to and from this grove takes some time and effort and that is why we recommend this for two-hours.  Option1. Year round. Smaller vehicles like cars and vans can access the trailhead and parking lot by driving the eastern section of Howland Hill Road. Howland Hill Road is windy, narrow, mostly unpaved, and is not suitable for large vehicles. There is no parking for RVs and trailers at the trailhead. Option 2. In summer, you can park any vehicle at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/developedcampgrounds.htm">Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground</a> Day Use Area ($8 fee required). From the campground walk towards the Smith River and along the riverbank you will find a walking trial heading upstream. This trail is about half a mile and then crosses the summer hikers' bridge to Stout Memorial Grove.

Summer footbridges are normally only installed late June until late September. Dates may vary depending of water flow in the Smith River.

A majestic grove of redwoods next to the Smith River in the northern part of the park. This trail requires some planning about how you will access it. Hours can be spent on a summer's day relaxing on the banks of the Smith River.

Walk the Stout Memorial Grove Trail

Two people gaze into a rocky tide pool. Waves swell towards the rocks.

Tidepooling at Enderts Beach

A short hike to see where science fiction comes to life. Tidepools are fairly common features along the northern California coast, but having safe access to them can be tricky. Endert's Beach is the best place inside the parks' boundaries to explore tidepools. Check <a href="https://www.tide-forecast.com/locations/Crescent-City-California/tides/latest">Crescent City tide tables</a> before you head out. Parking is located at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/coasttraillcgnorth.htm">Coastal Trail: Last Chance Grade Trailhead</a> at the southern end of Enderts Beach Road. The 1/4 mile hike to Enderts Beach has been described as "moderate" in difficulty and it will descend 200-feet down to this rocky beach. As with all the habitats inside national and state parks, these tidepools are protected. We all need to take care not to harm the life found in these pools. Learn more <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/learn/nature/tidepool-animals.htm">tidepools in Redwood National and State Parks</a>.  There are other tidepools outside the parks' boundaries. Five miles to the north of Enderts Beach are tidepools at Pebble Beach in Crescent City. About fifteen miles south of Orick are tidepools near the sea-side town of Trinidad.

Tidepooling at Enderts Beach will bring you experience some incredible coastlines and give you a glimpse into life at the edge of the ocean. For some, its like seeing science fiction come to life. Check the tides, and take a few hours to make the hike to the tide pools and back.

There are no lights in the area or along the trail.

Go Tide Pooling at Enderts Beach

Maritime

Snow covers open fields and redwoods are in a valley.

Take A Drive On The Wildside Consider this driving adventure if you have seen enough of the big trees and now want some sweeping views of hills, prairies, wildlife, valleys, oceans to the west and mountains to the east. "Bald Hills" gets it name from the higher elevation open grasslands and meadows that are found above some of the forests in California. The Bald Hills have human history and stories going back to time immemorial. When autumn conditions allow, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/learn/management/rxfire.htm">prescribed fire</a> is carefully used to keep these prairies open. Found in the southern end of the parks, this county road is not recommended for those driving recreational vehicles, or vehicles pulling trailers. It is windy, narrow and can be a rough road. Part of it is gravel and will be very dusty in the summer. Easiest access is off HWY101, just a mile north of Orick, California. Bald Hills Road is an east-west road that starts/ends near Weitchpec, CA . This road passes through private lands and the Six Rivers National Forest. Visitors going to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/lbjtrailhead.htm">Lady Bird Johnson Grove</a> drive on the first three-miles of Bald Hills Road. Not too many visitors take this scenic road beyond the Lady Bird Johnson Grove. However, if you have a few hours, the Bald Hills will reveal many natural and cultural wonders. Heading a few miles to the east, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/redwoodcreekoverlook.htm">Redwood Creek Overlook</a> provides interpretive panels and great views across old-growth redwoods and second-growth forests to the Pacific Ocean. Heading east is higher in elevation and the Bald Hills Road leads to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov//thingstodo/talltreeshike.htm">Tall Trees Trail</a> (free permit required) and <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/dolasonprairietr.htm">Dolason Prairie Trail</a>. The open spaces of the landscape now become obvious. Often raptors, elk and bears are seen along the Bald Hills Road. In summer, it will be much hotter on the Bald Hills than it is down in the redwoods along the coast - sunscreen and extra water is important to bring.  If you want to see spring blooms, winter snows, amazing starry night skies, stunning 360 views from a summit (School House Peak 3,068ft), or hike to see historic 19th century barns and orchards at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/lyonsranch.htm">Lyons Ranch Historical District</a>, then is spending a full day in the Bald Hills will be worth it . Be aware that many digital maps and GPS services misdirect visitors to Redwood National and State Parks and sometimes visitors are routed along the Bald Hills Road via isolated towns like Weitchpec. Logging trucks coming from outside the park also use this road. So watch your speed and be prepared to pull over at any time. The <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/lyonsranchtrail.htm">Lyons Ranch trailhead</a> (17 miles east of HWY101) is a good turn-around point for those wanting to head back to HWY101. Check our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/conditions.htm">current conditions</a> page for any updates on this road.

Scenic drive into the high hills and open prairies of the parks. Sweeping views, and opportunities for hikes, birding, wildlife viewing, and seeing historic barns and orchards.

Drive the Bald Hills Road

Homesteading

A white car drives on a dirt road wedged between redwood trees.

A Dirt Road Where Redwoods Kiss Your Car Located in the northern part of the parks, Howland Hill Road is suitable for drivers not afraid of dust and getting very, very close to redwoods. Part of this 10-mile road once was a stage coach road and most of Howland Hill Road is narrow. Recreational vehicles, trucks or vehicles with trailers are too wide for this road. Allow an hour to drive the length of the road which is located inside Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. There are many trailheads along the road, and parking and pullouts are limited. During spring, often this road gets repaired after winter storms and it may be partially closed for short periods of time. Check the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/redw/planyourvisit/conditions.htm">current conditions</a> page for important updates. Directions: From Crescent City, Calif.: drive south 1 mile on U.S. 101 and turn left (east-northeast) onto Elk Valley Road; continue 1 mile and turn right (east) onto Howland Hill Road; after ~1½ miles the road becomes unpaved as it enters Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park; continue another 5½ miles on Howland Hill Road until it becomes Douglas Park Road (paved); after ~1½ miles turn left onto South Fork Road; after ½ mile South Fork Road junctions with U.S. 199 just east of Hiouchi, Calif.

A ten-mile dirt road where the redwoods are so close they'll almost kiss your car.

Alert: Closure: Karl Knapp Trail at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Redwood

Overview

Hours

Fees & Passes

Map

Things To Do

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Walk the Karl Knapp (Prairie Creek) to Foothill Trail Loop

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Hike Zig Zag Loop

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Watch Wild Elk

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Bike Redwoods to Beach on the Ossagon Trail Loop

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Bike Lost Man Creek Trail

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Walk the Lady Bird Johnson Grove

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