Here are some of the best ways to get around and explore Redwood National and State Parks in California:
1. Driving Your Own Vehicle
The most convenient way to navigate Redwood National and State Parks is by car. The park is located along U.S. Highway 101, which makes it easily accessible from various points. Popular scenic routes like the Avenue of the Giants and Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway are best explored by car. These routes offer multiple stops, allowing visitors to enjoy the towering redwoods and scenic viewpoints.
- Avenue of the Giants: A 31-mile scenic drive through Humboldt Redwoods State Park, showcasing the massive trees with multiple stops for exploring and short hikes.
- Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: A 10-mile route that runs through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and provides easy access to several trailheads and attractions.
It’s advisable to arrive early during peak seasons, as popular trailheads may have limited parking.
2. Shuttle Services
While the park does not offer internal shuttle services, there are external shuttle options available to access certain areas:
- Redwood Adventures Shuttle: Provides shuttle services to trailheads such as James Irvine Trail, Fern Canyon, and Tall Trees Grove. This is a convenient option for visitors who want to do one-way hikes and return via shuttle.
- Redwood Parks Conservancy: Offers free transportation for individuals with disabilities to various park events and activities within the park and surrounding areas, with prior reservations.
3. Public Bus Services
For those without a vehicle, public transportation can be used to reach various parts of the park:
- Redwood Coast Transit (RCT): Offers several routes within Del Norte County, with connections to Crescent City, Orick, and Arcata. The routes are especially useful for getting to the northern parts of the park.
- Amtrak Thruway Bus: Provides service to Crescent City from cities like Smith River, Brookings, and Grants Pass. It is a good option for those traveling from out of state to reach the park.
4. Biking
Cycling is a popular way to explore the park, particularly along designated bike trails:
- Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: This parkway offers a "Hike and Bike" day once a month, from October to May, when the road is closed to motor vehicles and open to cyclists and pedestrians.
- Hike/Bike Trails: The park has several trails suitable for cycling, mainly on former logging roads, which provide an excellent way to experience the redwoods from a different perspective.
5. Public Transportation to the Park
If you are traveling from afar, here are some transportation options:
- Amtrak to Klamath Falls, OR: From Klamath Falls, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach the park.
- California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport (ACV): Located just north of Arcata, this regional airport offers flights from major cities. From the airport, you can rent a car to explore the park.
6. Navigation Tips
- Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for limited cell phone reception in many areas of the park. It is recommended to download maps and trail information ahead of time.
- Use Park Maps: Due to the remoteness of some park areas, GPS may not always be accurate. Rely on physical maps and park signs to navigate around the park.
With these transportation options, you can efficiently explore Redwood National and State Parks, whether you’re driving, biking, or using public transportation.
