Wandering through the redwoods feels like stepping into another world – one where ancient giants tower overhead, coastal fog dances through the trees, and nature reigns supreme. Needless to say there’s some amazing things to do in Redwood National Park.
Tucked along Northern California’s rugged coastline, this collection of parks is home to the tallest trees on Earth and some of the most jaw dropping landscapes in the country. You’re planning a trip to the Redwoods, which means you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
In this guide, we’re sharing the very best things to do to help you make the most of your redwood adventure. Then at the end of the post, I’ll add any useful guides and tips that will help you with planning a trip to the redwoods.
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Best Things to do in Redwood National Park
Exploring the Redwoods is like stepping into a fairytale forest of giants. Here’s a list of the best things to do in the Redwood National and State Parks, including both popular highlights and hidden gems.
Scenic Drives in the Redwoods
One of the best things to do in the Redwood National Park is to experience the majesty from behind the wheel on one of the park’s iconic scenic drives. Scenic drives through the Redwoods are perfect for anyone who wants to soak up the views without needing to lace up your hiking boots.
Newton B. Drury Parkway
The Newton B Drury Scenic Parkway in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is a peaceful 10 mile stretch that winds through ancient groves, with frequent elk sightings, and plenty of spots to pull over and explore short walks.
This road through Redwood National Park is paved, has two-way traffic, and is a very scenic alternative to the US 101. This drive will take about 30 minutes without stopping, but you need to stop, so plan on spending an hour or two on this activity.
Howland Hill Road
Howland Hill Road is a 10 mile mostly unpaved, two way, narrow road that winds through Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. This was the first encounter I had of the Redwoods and it was mind blowing seeing the size of these trees.
This road gives access to some of the best hikes in Redwoods National Park like Stout Grove Trail and Grove of Titans. Plan to take it slow and stop often. To drive all the way through will take about 45 minutes.
🚐 Travel Tip: Howland Hill Road does not recommend RV’s or Trailers.
Bald Hills Road
Bald Hills Road offers a beautiful contrast to the towering redwoods nearby. This scenic drive in the Redwoods winds up from the shaded redwood forests into wide open hills and grassy prairies.
You’ll climb a steep ascent before the trees thin out and you’re treated to sweeping views of the coastline and golden meadows. Don’t be surprised to see elk grazing on the prairies. This road gives access to trails like Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Tall Trees Grove.
⚠️ Road Access, Bald Hills Road is narrow and winding – RV’s and trailers are not recommended. This drive is 17 miles one way and will take 45 minutes without stopping.
Coastal Drive Loop
The Coastal Drive Loop in Redwood National Park is a one-way (northbound only) road that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Klamath River Estuary.
One of the best stops is High Bluff Overlook, where you can watch waves crash below or spot whales during migration season. While the road is partly paved, motorhomes, RV’s, and trailers are prohibited.
Don’t miss the World War II radar station. It looks like a farmhouse and barn – that was its disguise in the 1940’s.
Take a Hike in Redwoods National Park
Hiking in Redwood National Park is a dream. Popular trails wind beneath coast redwoods that stretch hundreds of feet into the sky, some of the tallest trees on Earth 🤯.
Moss carpets the ground, ferns fan out like green lace, and sunlight filters through the canopy in golden beams. The quiet is broken only by birdsong, distant water flowing or the creak of massive trunks swaying slightly overhead.
With so many ecosystems packed into one region – old-growth, coastal cliffs, open meadows – Redwood National and State Parks offer a hiking experience that’s as humbling as it is unforgettable.
Many trails in the redwoods are beginner-friendly, making them perfect for families, photographers, or just about anyone. Below I listed some of my favorite hikes in Redwood National Park & State Parks.
- Stout Grove
- Simpson Reed
- Tall Trees Trail
- Damnation Creek
- James Irvine Trail
🥾 Read More: 12 Best Hiking Trails in Redwoods National Park
Drive Through a Tree (Literally!)
One of the most iconic things to do in Redwood National Park is to drive through a massive, hollowed-out-tree – and there are a few special places where you can do just that.
The Chandlelier Tree in Leggett is one of the most famous drive-thru trees, with a large tunnel carved into its trunk that allows cars to pass through. Another popular spot is the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree, located along the Avenue of Giants. You’ll also find Klamath Tour-Thru Tree.
If you’d rather stay on foot, several trails – like those in Tall Trees Grove – feature fallen redwoods you can walk through or under. It’s crazy how quickly your problems start to feel when in the presence of the redwoods.
Learn About the Redwoods on Scenic Walks
Hiking trails like Simpson Reed Grove and the Lady Bird Johnson Grove are not just scenic walks – they’re also opportunities to learn about the fascinating ecology and history of the redwoods.
Along both trails, you’ll find interpretive signs that explain the delicate forest ecosystem, the role of fire in redwood generation, and the importance of preserving old-growth habitats. It’s truly fascinating.
Fern Canyon
Fern Canyon Trail is my favorite thing to do in Redwoods National Park. The trail winds through a narrow, fern covered gorge where walls soar 50 to 80 feet high and drip with moss, mist, and ferns.
The path follows Home Creek, so be prepared to walk through shallow water, balance on downed logs, and splash your way through the canyon floor. It’s famously featured in The Lost World: Jurassic Park.
Summer visitors will find seasonal footbridges to help keep feet dry, but waterproof shoes are still a good idea. From late spring to early fall, you’ll need a permit to drive in via Gold Bluff’s Beach.
The experience is well worth it – Fern Canyon is one of the most magical hikes in the redwoods. Get a Permit for Fern Canyon here.
🌿 Read Full Post: Tips for Visiting Fern Canyon
Catch Sunset at Gold Bluff’s Beach
Gold Bluffs Beach is located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. You’ll pass Gold Bluff’s Beach on the drive to Fern Canyon. There’s even the Gold Bluffs Beach Campground on the beach complete with showers.
The beach feels wild and secluded, often with only the sound of crashing waves and the sight of elk grazing in the distance. This thing to do in Redwoods National Park is often combined with a visit to Fern Canyon and drive on Davison Road.
Explore the Coastal Trail
The Coastal Trail is an expansive trail system that runs for over 70 miles along the California coast. Segments weave through misty groves, open bluffs, and windswept beaches.
You can hike shorter sections for epic views of redwoods meeting the Pacific. Popular sections like Gold Bluffs Beach to Fern Canyon, Last Chance, Klamath River Overlook, and False Klamath Cove offer stunning coastal views.
Camp Among Giants | One of the Best Things to do in Redwoods National Park
One of the most unforgettable ways to experience Redwood National Park is to camp among the towering redwoods. Camp next to a river at Jedediah Smith Campground, surrounded by elk at Elk Prairie Campground, or falling asleep to the sound of ocean waves at Gold Bluff’s Beach Campground.
When Joe and I explored the redwoods we camped in Mill Creek Del Norte Redwoods State Park. This campground was awesome. Well-equipped, showers are hot, and you’re surround by redwoods.
There is also backcountry camping for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a remote experience (permits required to backcountry camp). With no lodge inside the park itself, camping is the best way to immerse yourself in the magic of the redwoods.
Kayak or Float the Smith River
The Smith River is one of the cleanest rivers in the country and a refreshing thing to do in Redwoods National Park. The main stem offers calm stretches perfect for a leisurely float, after hike dip.
If you’re up for more adventure, the North Fork has sections of rapids and remote scenery, better suited for experienced paddlers. Guided trips are also available, especially near Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, making it easy to enjoy the river even if you’re new to kayaking.
Spot Wildlife
Spotting wildlife in the redwoods add an extra layer of magic to any visit. As you wander through towering groves, keep your eyes peeled for Roosevelt elk grazing in open meadows, especially near Elk Prarie, Elk Meadow, Gold Bluffs Beach, Bald Hills Road, and Enderts Beach Road.
We saw elk grazing on our way to Fern Canyon at Gold Bluffs Beach and it was so cool as they were just chillin on the side of the road. Elk Meadow is one of the best places to spot Roosevelt elk grazing.
Elk Meadow is a quick stop off Newton B. Drury Parkway. Early mornings and dusk are the best times to spot animals, especially in Prairie Creek. While an elk encounter may stand out, remember to respect al wildlife by keeping your distance, You are in their home after all.
Trees of Mystery
Lastly, one of the most touristy things to do in Redwood National Park is to visit the Trees of Mystery. At the entrance, you’ll be greeted by giant statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, adding a playful touch to the experience.
We personally did not get to go inside the Trees of Mystery but wanted to put it on the list as this is a perfect thing to do in Redwoods National Park for families and first time visitors to the park.
One of the highlights is the SkyTrail gondola, which takes you up through the forest canopy to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the coast. With suspension bridges, informative signs, and plenty of phot-worthy spots.
Bonus Things to do in Redwoods National Park
The redwood trees are the world’s tallest trees on the planet and can soar over 350 feet tall and live for more than 2,000 years. While many people assume there’s just one national park, the area is actually a partnership of four parks.
- Redwoods National Park
- Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
- Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
- Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Together, they preserve over 130,000 acres of ancient forest, old-growth redwoods, rivers, meadows, and coastline. Humboldt Redwoods State Park is not officially part of Redwood National Park.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park is a separate California state park located farther south, along the Avenue of the Giants. One of Joe’s top things he wanted to do in Redwoods National Park was get a print worthy picture of Avenue of the Giants.
We absolutely loved Humboldt Redwoods State Park, that’s why I wanted to include it on the list of the best things to do in Redwoods National Park as a bonus day. This is particularly easy to visit if you are visiting the Redwoods starting from San Francisco.
Avenue of the Giants
The Avenue of the Giants is voted one of the most scenic roads in the Untied States. This iconic route parallels Highway 101 but feels like a world away, with towering trees lining the road, dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy, and quiet pull-offs where you can walk amongst the giants.
Along the way, you’ll find groves like Founders Grove (more details in the next section), Rockefeller Forest, and quirky roadside stops including gift shops and even the Shrine Drive-Thru tree.
Founders Grove Trail
Found towards the beginning of Avenue of Giants is the Founders Grove Nature Trail. The loop is short and flat and winds you through some massive trees.
One of the highlights is the Dyerville Giant, a fallen redwood that once reached over 370 feet tall and crashed to the ground with such force it was heard and felt for miles .
Redwood National Park Travel Tips
Before you go, here are some practical and helpful travel tips for visiting Redwoods National and State Parks to make the most of your adventure.
- 🌲 Know the Park System. These parks are co-managed and admission is free, though some day-use areas like Gold Bluffs Beach charge a parking fee or you can use an America the Beautiful Pass.
- 📵 Cell service can be spotty or nonexistent. Download offline maps or pick up a paper map at the visitor center (Hiouchi, Kuchel, or Prairie Creek).
- ⏱️ Space out your Itinerary. The parks stretch over 50+ miles of coast and forest. Don’t try to see everything in a day. Focus on one or two regions per day.
- 💦 Plan Around the Tides. If you’re visiting Fern Canyon, Enderts Beach, or doing any tide pooling, check the tide charts ahead of time. Low tide is key for access and safety.
- 🧺 Pack it in, Pack it out. Bring snacks, water, and anything else you need – and be prepared to take your trash with you.
- 🌦️ Dress in Layers. Even in summer months, mornings can be chilly and foggy while afternoons warm up. Wear breathable layers and waterproof gear if visiting in spring or fall.
- 🍃 Protect yourself from Poison Oak & Ticks which are common in the redwoods. Wear long socks, pants, and sleeves and stay on the trail.
- 📸 Bring a Wide-Angle Lens. To capture the scale of these towering trees, a wide angle lens or tripod helps, especially in low light under the canopy.
Redwoods Travel Vlogs
Would you rather see what some of the best things to do in the Redwood National Park? Joe and I filmed a travel vlog during our time spent exploring the Redwoods and it was nothing short of magical.
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Redwood National Park Travel Guides ↓
📍 Planning a trip to the Redwoods? Check out these guides for more inspiration and tips to plan your travels.
Redwoods National Park Itinerary 2-3 Days
Hiking Damnation Trail to the Coast | Redwoods National Park
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