Hike Among Giants This Fall
Last week, we were walking among the giants at Dinosaur Valley State Park in Texas. This week, we’re walking among an entirely different kind of giant at Redwood National Park in California. Redwood National Park is home to the tallest trees in the country, but it’s so much more than that. The park is pure magic, a place where you can connect with nature in a way that you can do nowhere else.
Redwood National Park and Redwood State Park are located in Humboldt County, California, just north of what is known as California’s Lost Coast. This stretch of Northern California is untouched, remaining in its wild and natural state in a way few things are in California these days. No major roads access this stretch of coast, which is part of what lends it such an air of mysterious attraction.
Aside from heading south to explore the Lost Coast further, the real star of any trip to this part of Northern California is the trees – some of which reach an astounding height of 370 feet. To put that in perspective, that is 5 stories taller than the Statue of Liberty! Redwood National Park is a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve, as it protects nearly half of the world’s old-growth redwoods that remain.
Once you emerge from your time in Redwood National Park, take the time to visit the charming coastal communities nearby. From Eureka to Ferndale, there’s plenty to love along this stretch of Northern California’s coast. There are also two amazing Select Registry properties to stay while you’re there visiting, both of which offer an unparalleled glimpse of life in this beautiful part of California.
What to See at Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park and Redwood State Park are actually unique partnerships between federal and state lands. Combined, the park system includes 200 miles of hiking trails between Jedediah Smith Redwoods, Del Norte Coast Redwoods, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks. It’s more than just a place to see the world’s tallest trees, too.
These parks also do a magnificent job of protecting prairies, oak woodlands, wild rivers, and 40 miles of California’s rugged coastline. There are so many wonderful things to do in Redwood National Park, whether you have an hour or several days.
If you’re short on time and want the biggest bang for your buck in Redwood National Park, then don’t miss the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. This 10-mile drive takes you through the scenic heart of Redwood National Park. It’s found in the southern portion of the park, and we can confidently say it will be one of the most beautiful drives you will ever take. Expect the drive to take at least 20 minutes, more if you stop along the way.
Another top attraction in Redwood National Park is the aptly named Big Tree. This area is just off the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and is the quickest way to get up close and personal to some massive trees.
Other top highlights in Redwood National Park, for those who have more time to explore, include the following:
- Walk the Stout Memorial Grove Trail, a majestic 44-acre grove filled with some pretty incredible 300-foot tall trees.
- Take your car down Howland Hill Road – the trees get so close to your car at times you won’t believe you can squeeze past. The road is very narrow, so only attempt this with smaller cars and SUVs.
- For an all-day hike option, consider taking the James Irvine Trail to Fern Canyon Loop. The 12-mile loop takes you all the way to the Pacific Ocean and back, looping through a variety of forests along the way. You can also hike the Fern Canyon Loop Trail.
- Another great scenic drive in Redwood National Park is Bald Hills Road. This drive is less about the trees and more about enjoying sweeping views of prairies, valleys, and oceans.
- Get into the backcountry of Redwood National Park and away from the crowds with a hike to Tall Trees Grove. It’s limited to just 50 permits a day, and you can get permits online up to 48 hours in advance.
If you’re looking for even more ways in which to spend your time in the stunning Redwood National Park, here’s a comprehensive guide for you.
A Coastal Getaway Near the Redwoods
As you leave Redwood National and State Park, consider spending a few days relaxing along the stunning California coast nearby. There, you’ll find quaint towns like Eureka and Ferndale, along with two stunning Select Registry Bed and Breakfasts.
Eureka
The charming coastal town of Eureka is well-known for its preserved Victorian architecture. It’s also home to Sequoia Park, which is home to even more massive old-growth redwood trees.
Get out on the water in Eureka, and take guided boat cruises aboard the early-1900s Madaket ferry. It’s a great way to take in the sights, seals, and birdlife of Humboldt Bay. Afterward, spend your time browsing Eureka’s old town, home to a variety of wonderful shops and restaurants.
Ferndale
Ferndale is a short drive south of Eureka, another quaint community known for its well-preserved Victorian-style buildings. Here, you’ll find an abundance of small-town charm, natural beauty, and beautiful architecture.
Ferndale also happens to be a wonderful place from which to launch your adventure into California’s Lost Coast.
Wherever you choose to stay, you’ll have the Select Registry guarantee of quality and comfort to rely on. Each of these Inns has passed a high-quality inspection and will deliver a level of personalized service that you can’t find at large hotel chains. It’s the personalized stay you crave in our increasingly impersonal modern world.
Browse our select California Bed and Breakfasts below, and start planning your trip to the incredible Redwood National Park today!
Lodging Near Redwood National Park
Carter House Inns
The Carter House Inns, a premier inn, is an enclave of three magnificent Victorians perched alongside Humboldt Bay in Old Town Eureka. The luxurious accommodations at Carter House Inns and the sumptuous dining at Restaurant 301 (considered among Northern California’s best restaurants) set an indulgent tone for a marvelous visit to the giant redwood forests, rugged Pacific beaches, and more.
Our accommodations and service are unparalleled; our award-winning cuisine is prepared with local organic products and fresh herbs, greens, and vegetables from our gardens and local purveyors.
Gingerbread Mansion Inn
Gingerbread Mansion is a romantic bed and breakfast with attentive and caring staff. The Mansion, often described by guests as the perfect fairy tale setting, is located in the preserved historic town of Ferndale, surrounded by the wild and majestic nature of California’s Lost Coast.
It has long been recognized as an architectural landmark thanks to its mixture of Eastlake and Queen Anne styles, gingerbread trim. Inside the mansion, Victorian-themed rooms feature high ceilings, private baths, and decadent wallpaper. Modern amenities include flat-screen televisions, gas or electric fireplaces, and complimentary wifi.
