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About

Redwood National Park is located along the northern coast of California in the United States and covers approximately 217 square miles (562 sq km). Established in 1968 and expanded in 1978, the park protects some of the tallest trees on Earth and one of the most remarkable temperate rainforest ecosystems in the world.

The park lies along the Pacific Ocean between Crescent City and Eureka. It is managed in partnership with several adjoining California state parks, creating a vast protected landscape. Together, these protected areas preserve nearly half of the world’s remaining old-growth coastal redwood forests. In 1980, Redwood National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and later became part of an International Biosphere Reserve due to its global ecological significance.

Redwood National Park is best known for its towering coast redwoods, the tallest living trees on Earth. Some of these giants exceed 370 feet (113 meters) in height and can live for more than 2,000 years. Visitors come from around the world to walk among these ancient forests and experience a sense of scale found nowhere else.

Popular activities include hiking, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, camping, photography, and exploring quiet coastal landscapes. Trails wind through groves where massive trunks rise into a canopy often hidden by fog. The park’s combination of ancient forests, wild rivers, and rugged coastline creates one of the most inspiring visitor experiences in North America.

The geography of Redwood National Park is remarkably diverse. While the redwood forests are its most famous feature, the park also contains prairie grasslands, oak woodlands, rivers, wetlands, and approximately forty miles of undeveloped Pacific coastline. Frequent coastal fog plays a critical role in sustaining the redwood ecosystem by providing moisture during the dry summer months.

Elevations range from sea level to forested ridges overlooking the ocean. Major waterways such as the Klamath and Redwood Creek watersheds flow through the park, supporting healthy aquatic ecosystems. Ferns, mosses, lichens, and dense understory vegetation thrive beneath the towering trees, creating an environment that feels both ancient and vibrant.

Wildlife within Redwood National Park is abundant and diverse. Roosevelt elk are among the park’s most iconic animals and are frequently seen grazing in meadows and forest edges. Other mammals include black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, river otters, and Roosevelt deer.

Birdlife is equally impressive, with species such as bald eagles, northern spotted owls, marbled murrelets, ospreys, and varied thrushes inhabiting the forests and coast. Streams support salmon and steelhead trout, while offshore waters host seals, sea lions, and migrating gray whales. The park’s varied habitats provide refuge for an extraordinary range of species throughout the year.

Redwood National Park plays a critical role in protecting one of the rarest forest ecosystems on Earth. Old-growth coastal redwoods once covered millions of acres along the Pacific Coast, but only a small fraction remains today. The park safeguards these ancient forests while protecting endangered species such as the marbled murrelet and northern spotted owl. Conservation efforts focus on restoring damaged forests, preserving watersheds, and maintaining habitat connectivity.

Redwood National Park is often compared to Sequoia National Park because both protect giant trees of extraordinary size and age. However, redwoods are taller, thrive in a coastal environment, and create a rainforest ecosystem unlike any other in North America. Today, Redwood National Park stands as one of the world’s greatest conservation success stories, preserving a living forest of giants that continues to inspire awe and wonder.

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Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park

Things to See

The redwood trees of the park are the pinnacle attraction; however, this is one of the most impressive rugged coastlines in the world featuring the towering giants looking out over the cliffs.

Standing up next to one of these massive giants leaves most people speechless.  It is hard to fathom some vegetation that has grown to these actual sizes.  They are unfathomable.

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Redwood National Park, a realm of ancient giants and lush forests along California’s northern coast, is a sanctuary for a myriad of wildlife species, each adding to the park’s mystique and offering visitors a chance to connect with nature’s grandeur.

Roosevelt Elk The majestic Roosevelt Elk, the largest of North American elk, thrive in the park’s prairies and meadows, a testament to successful conservation efforts.

Black Bear Adaptable and omnivorous, Black Bears roam the park’s forests, foraging for berries, nuts, and occasionally fish, embodying the wild spirit of the Redwoods.

Banana Slug A symbol of the rainforest’s rich biodiversity, the Banana Slug, with its bright yellow color, fascinates visitors and plays a crucial role in decomposition.

Northern Spotted Owl An emblem of Pacific Northwest forests, the elusive Northern Spotted Owl finds refuge among the ancient trees, a species of concern due to habitat loss.

Pacific Fisher The rare Pacific Fisher, a member of the weasel family, navigates the park’s dense forests, relying on its agility to hunt and evade predators.

Steller’s Jay Vibrant and vocal, Steller’s Jays are easily recognized by their striking blue plumage and bold behavior, adding color and sound to the forest.

Coastal Cutthroat Trout Inhabiting the park’s clear streams and rivers, Coastal Cutthroat Trout are a vital part of the aquatic ecosystem, supporting a diverse food web.

Gray Whale During migration seasons, Gray Whales can be seen off the coast, their impressive journeys from Baja to Alaska passing by the park’s rugged shoreline.

Sea Anemone Tide pools in the park reveal Sea Anemones, their tentacles a vivid display of marine life’s intricacy, thriving in the intertidal zones.

Bald Eagle Soaring above the forest canopy, Bald Eagles epitomize freedom and strength, their presence a sign of the park’s healthy, intact ecosystems.

Redwood National Park’s wildlife, from the towering Roosevelt Elk to the delicate Sea Anemone, showcases the incredible diversity and resilience of life in one of the planet’s most awe-inspiring natural settings, inviting all to explore and marvel at its beauty.

Tallest Trees in the World

Tallest Trees in the World

Redwood trees, scientifically known as Sequoia sempervirens, are among the most magnificent and iconic trees on Earth. These ancient giants are renowned for their immense size, longevity, and majestic beauty.

Redwoods are coniferous evergreen trees that can reach staggering heights, with some individuals towering over 350 feet (107 meters) tall, making them the tallest trees on the planet. Their massive trunks can exceed 20 feet (6 meters) in diameter, and their branches form a dense canopy that filters sunlight, creating a cool and shaded understory below.

Redwood trees are characterized by their distinctive reddish-brown bark, which is thick, fibrous, and deeply furrowed, providing protection against fire and insect damage. Despite their massive size, Redwoods have relatively shallow root systems, which spread out laterally to anchor the trees in the soft, moist soil of their coastal habitat.

These remarkable trees are not only awe-inspiring to behold but also play a vital ecological role, providing habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species and helping to maintain the health of the forest ecosystem.

Things To Do

Engaging Redwood National Park

Hiking

Explore the majestic groves of towering Redwoods on the park’s extensive network of hiking trails. Wander beneath the canopy of ancient trees, marveling at their immense size and tranquil beauty.

Choose from a variety of trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks, each offering opportunities to immerse yourself in the lush, verdant landscapes of Redwood National Park.

Scenic Drives

Take a leisurely drive along the park’s scenic byways, winding through old-growth forests, along rugged coastline, and past stunning viewpoints. Enjoy panoramic vistas of towering Redwoods, pristine rivers, and expansive meadows as you soak in the natural splendor of the park from the comfort of your car.

Redwood National Park Trails

There are almost 200 miles (320 km) of hiking trails across the four protected areas that make up the Redwood National and State Parks system.  Hiking is one of the best ways to discover and explore the majestic nature of these gorgeous giant trees.

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Tall Trees Grove Loop Trail

This is a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) loop trail that is rated moderate.  The trail meanders through some of the taller trees of the park.

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Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

This is an easy 1.3-mile (2.09 km) loop trail through one of the most beautiful areas of the park.  The easy access and easy short distance make it one of the most popular trails of the park.  This also means it has the most traffic as well. It delivers hikers to the fern-blanketed forest floor, gorgeous wildflowers, and of course, the towering redwood trees.

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Redwood Creek Trail

This long 15.6-mile (25.1 km) trail takes about seven hours to navigate along the Redwood Creek while being surrounded by the towering redwood giants.  This moderate rated trail is for those who are more physically fit.

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Fern Canyon Loop Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1 mile loop with minimal elevation gain

Description: This unique trail leads hikers through a lush, narrow canyon whose walls are completely draped with ferns, creating a prehistoric ambiance. Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (part of the Redwood National and State Parks system), it offers a flat, accessible path that meanders along the streambed, requiring crossings over logs and shallow water. It’s a magical experience, often used in films to depict ancient worlds.

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Tall Trees Grove Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3.3 miles round trip with an elevation gain of about 800 feet (244 meters)

Description: This trail offers an intimate encounter with some of the tallest trees on earth. Access requires a free permit from the park visitor center, ensuring a peaceful experience. The hike descends into a secluded grove of towering coast redwoods, providing a sense of awe and solitude. The return hike is steep, challenging but rewarding with its serene beauty.

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Coastal Trail: Gold Bluffs Beach to Fern Canyon

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 4.5 miles one way with minimal elevation gain

Description: Part of the longer Coastal Trail that spans California’s coastline, this segment offers stunning ocean views alongside the chance to walk among the dunes and beach. The trail culminates in the remarkable Fern Canyon, providing a diverse hiking experience that combines coastal and forested environments. Wildlife sightings, including elk and various bird species, are common.

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Trillium Falls Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.8 miles loop with an elevation gain of about 400 feet (122 meters)

Description: This trail takes hikers through lush old-growth forests to the charming Trillium Falls. The path includes a few short, steep sections but is mostly gentle and offers the opportunity to see redwoods along with a beautiful waterfall. It’s a great way to experience the diverse plant life and serene environment of the park.

FAQ’s

How do the Redwoods compare to the Squoias?

The Redwoods and the Sequoias are both iconic species of trees found in California, but they differ in several key aspects:

  1. Size: Sequoias (Sequoiadendron giganteum) are known for their massive size and are considered the largest trees in the world by volume. They can reach heights of over 300 feet (91 meters) and have trunks that can exceed 30 feet (9 meters) in diameter. In contrast, Redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) are the tallest trees in the world and can reach heights of over 350 feet (107 meters), but they have slightly smaller trunks compared to Sequoias.
  2. Habitat: Sequoias are primarily found in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, particularly in the western slope at elevations between 5,000 and 7,000 feet (1,500 to 2,100 meters). Redwoods, on the other hand, are typically found in coastal regions of Northern California and southern Oregon, where they thrive in the cool, moist climate along the Pacific coast.
  3. Bark: The bark of Sequoias is thick, fibrous, and deeply furrowed, providing protection against fire and insect damage. In contrast, the bark of Redwoods is thinner and fibrous, but it tends to be more fibrous and has a reddish-brown coloration, giving the trees their name.
  4. Cone Size: The cones of Sequoias are relatively small, typically measuring about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters) in length. In comparison, the cones of Redwoods are slightly larger, ranging from 0.75 to 1.5 inches (2 to 4 centimeters) in length.
  5. Age: Both Sequoias and Redwoods are known for their longevity, with some individuals living for thousands of years. However, Sequoias are generally considered to be older, with some specimens estimated to be over 3,000 years old, while Redwoods typically live for around 600 to 800 years.

Overall, while both the Redwoods and the Sequoias are awe-inspiring trees that attract visitors from around the world, they differ in their size, habitat, bark characteristics, cone size, and age. Each species has its own unique beauty and significance, contributing to the rich natural heritage of California’s forests.

What is the main reason people visit Redwood National Park?

Redwood National Park is primarily visited to experience the world’s tallest trees, ancient old-growth forests, rugged Pacific coastline, scenic drives, and diverse wildlife. Located along California’s northern coast, the park protects some of the last remaining old-growth coast redwood forests on Earth.

Visitors come to walk among towering redwoods that can exceed 370 feet (113 meters) in height, hike through lush forests, explore coastal landscapes, observe wildlife, and experience one of the most awe-inspiring natural environments in North America.

What animals can visitors hope to see in Redwood National Park?

Redwood National Park supports approximately 75 mammal species and a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and marine wildlife. The park’s forests, prairies, rivers, and coastline provide exceptional biodiversity.

Some of the most notable animals found in Redwood National Park include:

  1. Roosevelt Elk
  2. Black Bear
  3. Cougar
  4. Bobcat
  5. Coyote
  6. Gray Fox
  7. River Otter
  8. American Beaver
  9. Raccoon
  10. Striped Skunk
  11. Long-tailed Weasel
  12. American Marten
  13. Fisher
  14. Porcupine
  15. Black-tailed Deer
  16. Mule Deer
  17. Mountain Beaver
  18. Douglas Squirrel
  19. Northern Flying Squirrel
  20. Townsend’s Chipmunk
  21. Deer Mouse
  22. Brush Mouse
  23. California Vole
  24. Long-tailed Vole
  25. Pacific Jumping Mouse
  26. Vagrant Shrew
  27. Water Shrew
  28. Big Brown Bat
  29. Hoary Bat
  30. Silver-haired Bat
  31. Little Brown Bat
  32. Long-legged Myotis
  33. California Myotis
  34. Yuma Myotis
  35. Townsend’s Big-eared Bat
  36. Harbor Seal
  37. California Sea Lion
  38. Steller Sea Lion
  39. Sea Otter
  40. Harbor Porpoise
  41. Dall’s Porpoise
  42. Gray Whale
  43. Humpback Whale
  44. Killer Whale (Orca)
  45. Pacific Harbor Seal
  46. Banana Slug
  47. Rough-skinned Newt
  48. Pacific Giant Salamander
  49. Northwestern Salamander
  50. Various Salmon and Trout Species

What birds can visitors hope to see in Redwood National Park?

Redwood National Park is home to more than 280 bird species. Its forests, rivers, prairies, and coastal habitats support an impressive diversity of resident and migratory birds.

Some of the most popular birds seen in Redwood National Park include:

  1. Bald Eagle
  2. Golden Eagle
  3. Peregrine Falcon
  4. Osprey
  5. Cooper’s Hawk
  6. Sharp-shinned Hawk
  7. Northern Goshawk
  8. Great Horned Owl
  9. Barred Owl
  10. Northern Pygmy Owl
  11. Northern Saw-whet Owl
  12. Common Raven
  13. Steller’s Jay
  14. Gray Jay
  15. Chestnut-backed Chickadee
  16. Mountain Chickadee
  17. Red-breasted Nuthatch
  18. Brown Creeper
  19. Pacific Wren
  20. Winter Wren
  21. American Dipper
  22. Varied Thrush
  23. Hermit Thrush
  24. American Robin
  25. Cedar Waxwing
  26. Townsend’s Solitaire
  27. Pine Siskin
  28. Evening Grosbeak
  29. Red Crossbill
  30. White-winged Crossbill
  31. Dark-eyed Junco
  32. Fox Sparrow
  33. White-crowned Sparrow
  34. Savannah Sparrow
  35. Yellow Warbler
  36. Wilson’s Warbler
  37. MacGillivray’s Warbler
  38. Western Tanager
  39. Black-headed Grosbeak
  40. Hairy Woodpecker
  41. Downy Woodpecker
  42. Northern Flicker
  43. Pileated Woodpecker
  44. Marbled Murrelet
  45. Black Oystercatcher
  46. Tufted Puffin
  47. Rhinoceros Auklet
  48. Common Murre
  49. Belted Kingfisher
  50. Brown Pelican

Is Redwood National Park worth visiting?

Yes, Redwood National Park is absolutely worth visiting and is one of the most extraordinary forest destinations in the world.

The park offers visitors the opportunity to stand beneath the tallest trees on Earth, explore pristine old-growth forests, drive scenic roads through towering redwoods, hike coastal trails, observe Roosevelt elk, and enjoy spectacular Pacific Ocean views. Many visitors consider walking among the ancient redwoods to be one of the most memorable experiences in the United States.

The primary hesitation is that many people underestimate how large the park is and how spread out its attractions are along the northern California coast.

What is the best time to visit Redwood National Park?

The best time to visit Redwood National Park is from May through October.

Typical conditions include:

  • Spring: 45–65°F (7–18°C)
  • Summer: 50–70°F (10–21°C)
  • Fall: 45–70°F (7–21°C)
  • Winter: 40–60°F (4–16°C)

During this period:

  • Hiking conditions are favorable.
  • Coastal visibility is often better.
  • Wildlife viewing is excellent.
  • Temperatures remain comfortable.
  • Most roads and trails are accessible.

Summer offers the driest weather, although coastal fog remains common throughout the year.

How many days do you need to visit Redwood National Park?

The park is easily experienced in a day, but many visitors should plan for 2 to 3 days to get more out of the park.

  • 1 day: Scenic drives and major redwood groves.
  • 2 days: Forest hikes and coastal exploration.
  • 3 days: Wildlife viewing, beaches, and additional trails.
  • 4+ days: Extensive hiking and photography opportunities.

Because attractions are spread throughout the park, multiple days provide a much richer experience.

How do you get to Redwood National Park?

Redwood National Park is located along California’s northern coast between Crescent City and Orick.

The closest airports include:

  • Del Norte County Regional Airport – approximately 15 minutes from the park.
  • Arcata-Eureka Airport – approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour away.
  • Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport – approximately 2.5 hours away.

Most visitors follow this route:

  1. Fly into Crescent City, Arcata-Eureka, or Medford.
  2. Rent a vehicle.
  3. Travel via U.S. Highway 101.
  4. Explore the park’s various forest and coastal sections.

Redwood National and State Parks System

One unique feature of the area is that Redwood National Park is managed jointly with several California state parks, creating a larger protected complex that includes:

  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
  • Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
  • Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
  • Redwood National Park

Visitors typically explore all of these areas during a trip.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Many visitors begin at:

  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Highlights include:

  • Some of the tallest redwoods in the world.
  • Scenic river access.
  • Dense old-growth forests.
  • The famous Howland Hill Road.

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Another favorite destination is:

  • Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Known for:

  • Roosevelt elk viewing.
  • Fern Canyon.
  • Coastal forests.
  • Outstanding hiking trails.

Scenic Drives

Popular scenic routes include:

  • Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
  • Howland Hill Road
  • U.S. Highway 101 through the redwoods.

These roads provide some of the finest redwood forest scenery anywhere in the world.

Major Attractions

Popular destinations include:

  • Fern Canyon
  • Lady Bird Johnson Grove
  • Tall Trees Grove
  • Gold Bluffs Beach
  • Klamath River Overlook

Travel Times

Typical travel times include:

  • Crescent City to Jedediah Smith Redwoods: approximately 15 minutes.
  • Crescent City to Prairie Creek Redwoods: approximately 45 minutes.
  • Arcata to Prairie Creek Redwoods: approximately 1 hour.
  • Medford to Crescent City: approximately 2.5 hours.
  • Driving the major attractions of the park complex: approximately 2–4 hours, not including hiking stops.

Visitors should allow extra time because many of the best attractions are reached via scenic secondary roads.

Who is involved in protecting and supporting Redwood National Park?

Several organizations help protect and support Redwood National Park:

  • National Park Service – manages Redwood National Park.
  • California State Parks – jointly manages the Redwood National and State Parks system.
  • Redwood Parks Conservancy – supports education, conservation, and visitor programs.
  • National Park Foundation – supports projects throughout the National Park System.
  • Indigenous communities including the Yurok Tribe, Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation, and Karuk Tribe, who maintain longstanding cultural connections to the redwood region.

What is the tallest tree in Redwood National Park?

The tallest known tree on Earth is Hyperion, which stands at approximately 380 feet (116 meters) tall. Its exact location is not publicly disclosed to protect the surrounding ecosystem.

Can you drive through a redwood tree in Redwood National Park?

No. The famous drive-through trees are located outside the national park in privately operated attractions. However, visitors can drive through magnificent redwood groves along scenic roads within the park complex.

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