Embark on an extraordinary journey through the towering wonders of Redwood National Park with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover unforgettable experiences, essential tips, and hidden gems for your ultimate family adventure!
While I won’t claim the title of a Redwood National Park expert – the sheer scale and majesty of this place are truly boundless – our recent three-day family escapade proved to be nothing short of spectacular. This wasn’t just another trip; it was, without a doubt, one of our most cherished family vacations ever, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. Fresh off an extended adventure through the diverse landscapes of Utah and California, our detour into the ancient groves of the Redwoods was the perfect, awe-inspiring grand finale.
The requests for details about our stay and activities poured in immediately after we shared glimpses on Instagram and in our newsletter. It became clear that a ‘quick and dirty’ guide, as I like to call it, was in order – a straightforward, no-fuss rundown of our incredible experience. Given that our Redwood visit was the tail end of a longer journey, meticulous planning for this segment was not on the agenda. Instead, I relied on a few quick Google searches and a wealth of fantastic recommendations from friends and followers.
My primary focus was on the southern end of the park, aligning with our driving route. Beyond that, spontaneity was our co-pilot. Perhaps it was luck, or maybe it’s just the inherent magic of the Redwoods, but every moment of our trip was phenomenal. So much so, that when asked if they’d prefer returning to Disneyland or the Redwoods, our children unanimously chose the latter! This speaks volumes about the profound impact of these ancient forests.
One of the most remarkable discoveries was the abundance of truly wonderful, **FREE** activities available throughout the Redwoods. This realization liberated us from the need for an overly rigid itinerary, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience. You truly don’t need to plan every minute to savor the grandeur of this natural wonder. Here’s a detailed look at how we maximized our three unforgettable days.
Where We Found Our Sanctuary Amidst Giants
For our stay, we chose the charming Elk Meadows Cabins, nestled near Orick, California, perfectly positioned on the southern edge of the Redwood National and State Parks. This was a completely unsponsored recommendation, a fortunate internet discovery during my initial, brief online searches. The primary draw was its capacity to comfortably sleep eight people, ideal for our family of seven plus my in-laws who joined us for a segment of the trip. The cabins also boasted a full kitchen and an outdoor grill, which was a huge bonus. This allowed us to save significantly on dining out and pack nutritious lunches for our daily hikes and explorations.
Upon entering Eureka, CA, we made a strategic stop at Winco and Costco, stocking up on groceries that easily sustained us for our entire three-day stay. This foresight not only kept our budget in check but also ensured we had all our favorite snacks and meals readily available after long days of adventuring.
I cannot speak highly enough of Elk Meadows Cabins. They are truly exceptional, offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Their Facebook page is also a great resource, filled with glowing reviews from satisfied guests. Strategically located just minutes from iconic destinations like Prairie Creek State Park and the mesmerizing Fern Canyon, these cabins are an ideal basecamp for exploring the Redwoods. If we are fortunate enough to return to this magnificent region, Elk Meadows Cabins will undoubtedly be our first choice for accommodation. It was impeccably clean, wonderfully quiet, and exuded a cozy warmth that made us feel right at home. The name “Elk Meadows” is truly fitting; each day, we were treated to the sight of dozens of majestic elk grazing peacefully in the meadows surrounding our cabin, adding another layer of magic to our experience. Our stay here was simply perfect, and I was beyond happy with our choice.
Our Unforgettable Redwoods Itinerary: What We Explored
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: Home of Giants and Junior Rangers
Our inaugural day was dedicated to immersing ourselves in the natural splendor of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Our primary objective was the renowned Big Tree Loop, a manageable 2.3-mile round trip that is mostly flat and incredibly family-friendly. Even our youngest, five-year-old Cam, managed most of the journey with impressive fortitude, though a piggyback ride from her “dear momma” was well-deserved for the final quarter-mile. The highlight, of course, was reaching Big Tree itself – a colossal wonder that truly lives up to its name. Standing before it, you can’t help but feel a profound sense of awe and insignificance in the face of such ancient grandeur. It’s a humbling and utterly worthwhile destination.
Insider Tip: If your visit coincides with the first Saturday of the month, take note that the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, which winds through the park, is closed to vehicles. This creates an incredible opportunity for cyclists to enjoy breathtaking views without traffic. While we didn’t have bikes, we witnessed many people cycling and couldn’t help but feel a twinge of envy – it looked incredibly fun! The next day, driving along the same parkway, my envy subsided slightly as I appreciated the scenic beauty from the comfort of our car, and my legs thanked me for the rest.
A friendly park ranger at the visitor center alerted us to the Junior Ranger program, and picking up the booklets for our kids was a fantastic decision. They absolutely adored it! The promise of earning a Junior Ranger badge kept them utterly engrossed, noses buried in their booklets as they meticulously worked through the requirements. Thankfully, despite their intense focus, no one suffered any serious tumbles from tripping over their own feet or the abundant tree roots. Prairie Creek State Park offers a vast network of trails catering to various difficulty levels. With our mixed age group, we opted for easier walks, allowing us to fully absorb the surroundings, observe the unique flora and fauna, and, of course, spot as many elusive banana slugs as possible!
Lady Bird Johnson Grove: A Serene Evening Encounter
In close proximity to our Elk Meadows cabins lies the peaceful Lady Bird Johnson Grove. After a satisfying day of hiking at Prairie Creek and a hearty dinner back at our cabin, we embarked on a scenic drive up the winding, picturesque road to the grove. The journey itself offered an unexpected highlight: Brian’s keen eye spotted a black bear leisurely ambling by the roadside! We slowed down, and to our delight, we then saw two playful bear cubs scrambling up a nearby tree. This incredible wildlife encounter alone made the drive to Lady Bird Johnson Grove absolutely unforgettable. It was a truly amazing moment that underscored the wild beauty of the Redwoods.
Upon arrival, we opted for a more relaxed exploration rather than undertaking any of the official hikes, prioritizing photo opportunities on the charming bridge that spans the road. While we didn’t delve deep into the trails here, I’ve heard that the hikes within this grove are truly spectacular, though perhaps a bit more challenging than what we were comfortable tackling with our five-year-old at the time. (We would soon learn, however, that Cam was far tougher than we gave her credit for!). Lady Bird Johnson Grove offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for an evening stroll or simply soaking in the serene environment.
Tall Trees Grove: A Challenging Reward
The following morning, our adventure led us to the iconic Tall Trees Grove. Accessing the trailhead requires a special code, which we easily obtained from a helpful park ranger at the Kuchel Visitor’s Center. The drive to the Tall Trees hike was approximately 45 minutes, a journey I can confidently say was well worth every minute. The route itself was incredibly picturesque, and we paused at several roadside lookouts to absorb the truly breathtaking panoramic views of the ancient forest canopy and distant landscapes.
We knew in advance that the hike down to the Tall Trees was predominantly downhill, involving an elevation drop of 800-900 feet. Our initial plan was to descend only halfway before turning back, but the kids, fueled by curiosity and an unshakeable determination, insisted on making it all the way to the bottom. I admit, I was apprehensive. Downhill is always the easy part, and I harbored a quiet dread that once we reached the base, no one would possess the motivation (or energy) for the arduous climb back up. As much as I adore my children, the thought of carrying them, one by one, up that steep ascent was, quite frankly, terrifying.
However, the sight of the magnificent tall trees at the bottom was truly spectacular, a reward for our efforts. The entire hike, from start to finish, offered unparalleled scenery. It feels almost redundant to continually praise the beauty of the Redwoods, but it truly cannot be overstated – it is an utterly amazing and unique natural wonder. To our delightful surprise, we discovered a lovely creek at the bottom, complete with an abundance of rocks. For my children, a creek filled with rocks is an instant recipe for hours of pure joy. They happily skipped rocks and splashed in the water for what felt like an eternity before we had to gently remind them of the inevitable journey back up.
And rock it they did! I clearly underestimated their resilience, as they powered their way back up to the car with incredible energy. Even little Cam, armed with a trusty walking stick she found on the descent, managed to walk the entire hill-slash-mountain by herself, a true testament to her newfound determination. Brian and I, on the other hand, were sweating and breathing heavily, secretly wishing our kids would assemble one of those chair carries they learned in Scouts for us! We made frequent stops to utilize the conveniently placed benches along the trail, but ultimately, I am so incredibly glad we undertook this hike. Not only was it stunningly beautiful, but our children’s unexpected strength and enthusiasm surprised and delighted us in the best possible way, reinforcing the notion that challenges can often lead to the most memorable triumphs.
Fern Canyon: An Otherworldly Oasis
Ah, Fern Canyon – if you do nothing else during your visit to the Redwoods, you simply must make your way to this natural wonder. While the access road can be a bit rugged and requires an $8 day pass (which we happily paid), this destination was, hands down, our family’s absolute favorite among all our stops in the Redwoods. The moment you step into Fern Canyon, you understand why rumors persist that scenes from iconic films like Jurassic Park and parts of Star Wars (specifically, the Ewok forest) were filmed here. It truly feels like stepping onto another planet.
The sheer lushness, the vibrant green of the ferns cascading down the impossibly tall cavern walls, and the intensity of the verdant beauty are simply breathtaking. We spent hours exploring, climbing over fallen trees that formed natural obstacles on the trail, and carefully crossing the numerous small creeks via charming plank bridges. Each turn revealed a new vista of emerald glory, making it an immersive experience unlike any other. The memory of Fern Canyon still makes me breathless, its stunning allure is truly unforgettable. Despite a fair number of other visitors, the canyon maintained a peaceful and serene ambiance, allowing us to feel completely connected to nature.
This was another instance where we practically had to drag the children away. And who are we kidding, Brian and I could have happily stayed for hours longer too, lost in the magic of it all. However, a certain mother (ahem) began to feel the pangs of hunger, and as anyone knows, when mom is hungry, peace is a distant memory for all. So, with promises of a delicious meal, we reluctantly bid farewell to the enchanting Fern Canyon, carrying with us memories of an truly spectacular natural marvel.
Klamath Drive Through Tree: A Classic Redwoods Photo Op
While some might consider it a bit of a tourist gimmick, my personal rule for visiting the Redwoods was non-negotiable: we absolutely had to drive through a Redwood tree. I mean, come on! How can you travel all this way and not capture that iconic, quintessential Redwoods photo? It’s a rite of passage for any visitor!
So, Brian and the kids, always good sports, humored me, and we cheerfully spent $10 for the experience of driving through a magnificent tree in Klamath. The entire affair, from queueing to driving through and snapping pictures, took only about ten minutes, but it was undoubtedly worth every penny for the sheer novelty and the unforgettable family photo opportunity. It’s a fun, lighthearted break from hiking and a memorable way to interact with these ancient giants.
Coastal Drive and Lookouts: Where Forest Meets Ocean
After our memorable drive-through tree experience, we dedicated the rest of the morning to exploring the breathtaking Klamath area. Our journey led us past the popular Trees of Mystery attraction. While many people adore this spot, and we certainly enjoyed some souvenir shopping there, we ultimately decided against paying the rather steep entrance fees for the trails and the seven-minute gondola ride. Our preference leaned towards embracing the myriad free, equally stunning activities the Redwoods offer.
Instead, we took full advantage of the numerous scenic drives, particularly the captivating Coastal Drive Route. This route offered incredible vistas that seamlessly blended the ancient forest with the rugged Pacific coastline. We paused for lunch at Enderts Beach, where we enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the shore, delighting in the hunt for sand dollars. The views from the various lookouts along the Coastal Drive are nothing short of spectacular. The coastline here is dramatically rocky and somewhat formidable, yet its raw, jagged beauty is utterly awe-inspiring. I was constantly struck by the incredible contrast – standing so close to the vast expanse of the ocean, yet only a stone’s throw away from the overwhelming enormity of the inland Redwood trees and their dense forests. It’s a unique geographical feature that truly highlights the diverse beauty of this region.
Stout Grove, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: A Profoundly Peaceful Sanctuary
Our visit to Stout Grove was an unplanned, spur-of-the-moment decision that turned out to be one of the best choices of our entire trip. After spending time near Klamath, we decided, on a whim and based on several excellent recommendations, to drive north to Stout Grove, located within Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Despite being roughly a 45-minute drive from our Elk Meadows cabin (and we were already halfway there), the journey was absolutely worth it.
Stout Grove is precisely as its name suggests: a magnificent expanse of exceptionally stout, immensely large, and truly awesome trees. Even after days of encountering countless giant Redwoods, Stout Grove possessed a distinct quality that set it apart. It was intensely peaceful and remarkably quiet, with an almost palpable sense of ancient tranquility. The trees themselves seemed to have a different aura, a unique texture and feel that captivated us. Whether there’s a scientific explanation or simply a profound spiritual one, this particular grove, alongside Fern Canyon, became Brian’s favorite spot. The drive into Stout Grove involves a somewhat bumpy and lengthy road, but the stunning hikes and unparalleled views are a more than adequate reward for the effort.
Like all the areas we visited, we could have easily spent a day or two exploring Stout Grove, but with only a couple of hours, we made the most of it. We enjoyed a gentle walking loop around the grove and ventured onto a side hike that led us over a charming bridge. Of course, the kids seized the opportunity to stop and throw rocks into the creek below, a timeless activity that never fails to bring them joy. The grove is also home to numerous colossal fallen trees, incredibly immense and humbling reminders of nature’s power and the passage of time. Seeing them up close made us incredibly grateful we weren’t around when they eventually took their majestic fall. Despite being a little out of our initial planned route, we absolutely adored Stout Grove and wished we had more time to explore Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park in its entirety.
And so concludes our whirlwind three-day itinerary! Our feet were undoubtedly tired, but our spirits soared. Each night, our children collapsed into bed more exhausted than I had ever seen them, a sure sign of a day well spent in the great outdoors. Brian, the kids, and I were constantly enveloped in a sense of wonder at the sheer majesty and miraculous beauty of nature’s creations. In our nightly prayers back at the cabin, the children consistently expressed simple, heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to feel God’s love for them through the breathtaking splendor of the natural world. We will forever cherish the experiences we had in the Redwoods, memories preserved not just in our hearts, but also in the nearly 1,000 pictures I (truthfully) managed to capture.
Experiences We Hope to Discover Next Time
As with any adventure, there were countless other incredible things we wished we could have done, but alas, the realities of work and home eventually called us back. I’ve already meticulously compiled a list for our next visit! At the very top of that list is the challenging yet rewarding Damnation Creek Hike. This trail begins amidst a magnificent old-growth Redwood forest and descends over 1,000 feet to the stunning coast. Several of you highly recommended this as an unmissable natural attraction, and while we sadly missed it this time, it promises an unparalleled experience blending ancient forest with rugged shoreline beauty.
Secondly, I am eager to explore the dramatic, rocky beauty of the Smith River. We drove past it on our way home (taking the northern route back to Idaho, with a delightful side stop at Crater Lake), and I’ve truly never witnessed anything quite like its craggy, rocky, and utterly stunning allure. The vivid blue-green waters contrasting with the ancient rock formations create a truly unique landscape that beckons further exploration.
While this guide is far from an exhaustive compendium of all the Redwood National and State Parks have to offer, it reflects the genuine and unforgettable experiences of our family. Based on our incredibly positive journey, I wholeheartedly recommend every single item on our list above! Each destination provided a unique insight into the unparalleled grandeur of this precious natural sanctuary.
For further planning and insights, these additional websites proved invaluable:
Official Website for the Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National Park According to TripAdvisor