Planning a Trip to the Redwood Forest
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Getting There
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The drive through the Redwoods may be accomplished in a day, but the park and surrounding area is full of activities and sights that you won't want to miss. Plan on spending more than just a day if not in, at least in the vicinity of the park. To get there, the Redwoods are accessible off of US101, North of Mckinleyville, and South of Crescent City. Signage off of the 101 is self explanatory and there are multiple towns to stop along the way for a meal or a Redwood themed souvenir. If you're heading from San Francisco, be sure to stop in Mendocino and grab a snack at the Corners of the Mouth health food store, located at 45015 Ukiah. The Corners of the Mouth is pure Northern California; a health food store housed in a converted church and staffed by friendly and outgoing locals. Grab something to eat here and walk the few short blocks to Mendocino's ragged and eroding coastline, a great place to sit and enjoy your organic treats while watching the surf before heading back up the coast.
Hiking & Biking
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If you plan on hiking or mountain biking in the Redwoods, be advised that most of the hikes are of the shorter duration, and the bike trails of the preservationist variety: perfect for a day hike or an overnight adventure, but not much for the serious backpacker or "extreme" mountain biker. The trails range in length from a scant 0.3 miles to 9.5 miles and allow you to experience the biodiversity of the park, from hushed fern filled forests to majestic canyons and breathtaking ocean view vistas. Carry plenty of water, stay on the trails and travel with a buddy.
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Camping
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The Redwoods offer ample opportunity for camping, whether it be of the pack it in/pack it out variety or simple "car camping". Redwood Hostel offers accommodations within the park as well. In addition to camping opportunities within the park, there are multiple sites in the surrounding area, whether to the South in Humboldt County (Clam Beach) or the North in Del Norte (Del Norte Coast Redwoods).
Car Touring
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Redwood National Park also offers many a beautiful drive through the ancient forests, allowing you to take a scenic tour without ever having to step foot outside of the car. Whether following US101, US199, or Bald Hill Road, you can see as much of the Redwoods or travel as deep into the forests as you have time for (US101 is the most direct route and Bald Hill Road the most meandering).
Sightseeing & Lodging
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There's a great deal to see and do in and around both Redwood State and National Forests/Parks, and it's advised that you plan on spending several days in the area to truly appreciate the beauty of this portion of Northern California. There is much to see and do through the Redwoods, as well as on the adjacent and stunning stretch of coast to both the North and South. Lodging, whether in the form of bed and breakfast, or traditional hotel/motels are plentiful along the way, and, while it would be recommended that you make reservations, you may also feel comfortable "winging it" and traveling by the seat of your pants. If you feel more comfortable traveling with reservations, check out the Lost Whale Inn in Trinidad. The Lost Whale is a charming six room bed and breakfast complete with spa services and 2 miles of adjacent beach accessible by private trail from the hotel. For more information, or to make reservations, contact The Lost Whale at 1.800.677.7859.
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