Northern California Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National Park is located in the northern part of California, along the Pacific coast. It's near the town of Crescent City, about 300 miles north of San Francisco. Within its boundaries are three California state parks - Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.  Together these parks make up a World Heritage Site as well as an International Biosphere Reserve.

The park is known for its towering redwood trees, some of the tallest and oldest trees on Earth. It’s a beautiful spot for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the coastal scenery!

Roosevelt elk, one of the largest species of elk in North America, were reintroduced to the region in the early 1900s after being nearly wiped out, and today they thrive in the park's diverse habitats, from the coastal areas to the dense forests.

These parks are located within the traditional territories of several Native American tribes: including the Yurok, the Karuk, the Hupa and the   Tolowa Dee-ni'.  These tribes all have deep cultural and spiritual ties to the land, and many continue to work to protect the environment and preserve their traditions. 

The weather in Redwoods National Park can vary depending on the season and elevation, but generally, the climate is mild and temperate.  In the winter, expect cool, rainy weather.  In the spring and fall, temperatures range from 45°F to 60°F. Rain is less frequent than in winter, and the area starts to become lush and green.  Summer can be quite foggy, but temperatures rarely top 70°F.

It is a long drive from Seattle (500 miles) or a short plane flight (Medford, OR, or Arcata-Eureka, CA)

Hiking in Redwood National Park is an awe-inspiring experience, where towering ancient trees stretch high above, creating a serene canopy of green. The trails wind through lush forests, with sunlight filtering through the giant redwoods, casting a magical glow on the forest floor. The air is fresh, filled with the scent of moss and earth, and the quiet beauty of the landscape invites reflection.  Hiking options encompass short strolls (some wheel-chair accessible) to longer treks and backpacking, the park's majestic wilderness offers opportunities to view waterfalls, coastal lagoons, tidepools, ferns, flowers, bird watching, and whale watching.  

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking, Day Hiking, Naturalist
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: *Varies*

• Land Manager: Redwood National and State Parks
• Parking Permit Required: America the Beautiful Pass
• Recommended Party Size: 12
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12