If you’re looking for an adventure, a road trip through the Redwoods is an excellent choice. The Redwood National and State Parks in California offer some of the most beautiful scenic drives in the country. Here’s how to road trip through the Redwoods.
Plan Your Trip
Before hitting the road, it’s essential to plan your route and decide which parks you want to visit. The Redwood National and State Parks consist of four parks: Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast, Prairie Creek, and Redwood National Park. Each park has its unique attractions, so it’s essential to do your research and plan accordingly.
What to Pack
When road tripping through the Redwoods, packing appropriately can make all the difference. Be sure to bring comfortable clothing for hiking and layering as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Other essentials include sunscreen, bug spray, a first-aid kit, snacks, water bottles, and a map or GPS.
Where to Stay
The Redwood National and State Parks have several campsites that offer stunning views of towering trees and wildlife. However, if camping isn’t your thing, there are also plenty of lodging options nearby.
Scenic Drives
There are several scenic drives through the Redwoods that will take your breath away. Here are a few must-see routes:
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
This 10-mile drive offers stunning views of old-growth redwoods from your car window. The parkway has several pull-offs where visitors can take short hikes or explore nearby trails.
Howland Hill Road
This 6-mile dirt road takes visitors through some of the tallest trees in the park while offering breathtaking views of surrounding mountains.
Hiking Trails
The Redwood National and State Parks offer a vast network of hiking trails that range in difficulty from easy to strenuous. Here are a few trails worth exploring:
Fern Canyon Trail
This trail takes visitors through a lush canyon with walls covered in ferns. The trail ends at the beach, where visitors can relax and enjoy the ocean views.
James Irvine Trail
This 10-mile trail takes hikers through old-growth redwoods, over streams, and past waterfalls. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a more challenging hike.
Wildlife Viewing
The Redwood National and State Parks are home to several species of wildlife, including elk, black bears, and gray whales. Here are some spots to keep an eye out for wildlife:
Elk Meadow
Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this meadow is home to a herd of Roosevelt elk. Visitors can watch these majestic creatures from a safe distance.
Klamath River Overlook
This overlook offers stunning views of the Klamath River and is an excellent spot for whale watching during migration season.
In conclusion, road tripping through the Redwoods is an adventure you won’t forget. Whether you’re looking for scenic drives or challenging hikes, the Redwood National and State Parks have something for everyone. Remember to plan your route, pack appropriately, and be prepared to be awed by nature’s beauty at every turn.