Redwood National and State Parks, CA itinerary for 3 days / 5 days?

RedwoodNPTraveller

What is the ideal itinerary for exploring Redwood National and State Parks in California, whether you have 3 days or 5 days to spend? Considering the park's vast landscapes, key attractions, and diverse activities, what are the must-see spots and recommended trails to visit during a 3-day visit, and how can the itinerary be expanded to make the most of a 5-day trip, allowing for a more immersive experience in the redwood forests, coastal areas, and scenic viewpoints?

GlacierNPTraveller

Here’s a suggested itinerary for Redwood National and State Parks in California, whether you have 3 days or 5 days to explore the area. Both itineraries cover key attractions, hiking trails, and scenic spots, ensuring you experience the best of the park in the time available.

3-Day Itinerary for Redwood National and State Parks

Day 1: Northern Parks and Coastal Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Crescent City, the gateway to the northern section of the park.
- Visit the Redwood National and State Parks Visitor Center to get maps, park information, and any necessary permits.
- Head to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and explore the Stout Grove, an easy, short loop trail through towering redwoods.
- Take a drive on Howland Hill Road, a narrow, winding road through a lush redwood forest, perfect for scenic views and photography.
Afternoon:
- Visit the Smith River and enjoy the views or, if you're feeling adventurous, try kayaking or fishing in the river.
- Stop at Jedediah Smith Campground to picnic or relax in the shaded forest.
Evening:
- Head to Crescent City for dinner, and if you’re up for it, take a walk to the Battery Point Lighthouse at sunset for beautiful views.

Day 2: Central and Southern Parks

Morning:
- Head to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park for a morning hike. The Drury-Chaney Loop offers a beautiful 2.5-mile loop through lush forests and elk-watching opportunities.
- If you want more wildlife encounters, visit Elk Prairie to see Roosevelt elk.
Afternoon:
- Hike the Fern Canyon Trail, a short trail that leads through a stunning canyon covered in lush ferns (filming location for Jurassic Park 2).
- After your hike, visit Gold Bluffs Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the ocean and some scenic coastal views.
Evening:
- Head to Orick for a casual dinner. If you're staying nearby, consider camping or staying at a local inn.

Day 3: Coastal Views and Scenic Drives

Morning:
- Start with a drive along the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic 31-mile route through Humboldt Redwoods State Park, where you can stop for photos and short hikes.
- Visit Founders Grove to see some of the tallest trees in the world and learn about the park’s history.
Afternoon:
- Take a short detour to Big Tree Wayside and explore the Big Tree trail, a short walk leading to one of the largest redwoods.
- Stop at Humboldt Redwoods State Park and visit The Humboldt Redwood State Park Visitor Center for a final overview of the park’s natural history.
Evening:
- End your day with a relaxing dinner in Eureka and explore the town’s Victorian architecture.

5-Day Itinerary for Redwood National and State Parks

Day 1: Northern Parks and Crescent City

Morning & Afternoon: Follow the same itinerary as Day 1 of the 3-day plan. Spend extra time in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, exploring additional trails and spots like Boy Scout Tree Trail.
Evening: Stay in Crescent City and enjoy the evening at Battery Point Lighthouse.

Day 2: Exploring More of the Northern Parks

Morning: Spend the morning hiking Tall Trees Grove, one of the tallest redwood groves in the world. Pick up your free permit for this trail at the Redwood National Park Visitor Center.
Afternoon: Visit Redwood Creek Overlook for panoramic views of the forest and the coast. If time permits, explore Hiouchi Visitor Center and learn more about the history of the region.
Evening: Head back to Crescent City for the night.

Day 3: Central and Southern Parks – Prairie Creek and Fern Canyon

Morning: Follow the same itinerary as Day 2 of the 3-day plan, but take your time at Fern Canyon and explore its quiet beauty. If you’re up for more hiking, tackle the James Irvine Trail.
Afternoon: Spend additional time at Gold Bluffs Beach, exploring tide pools and enjoying the coastal views.
Evening: Stay in Orick or Trinidad, with a relaxing evening.

Day 4: Hiking and Scenic Drives

Morning: Start with the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, which provides access to trailheads such as Redwood Creek Trail and Rhododendron Trail.
Afternoon: Explore the Avenue of the Giants in depth, stopping at multiple points such as The Immortal Tree, The Drive-Thru Tree, and Founder’s Grove.
Evening: Spend time in the charming town of Eureka with its Victorian architecture, and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Day 5: Additional Scenic Views and Departure

Morning: Take a final drive through Humboldt Redwoods State Park and stop at Big Tree Wayside and Founders Grove for one last walk among the giants.
Afternoon: If you’re interested, take a detour to visit Lost Coast, a remote and rugged part of the park that's worth the drive.
Evening: Head out of the park, or if you have time, stay in Eureka for the night.

Key Tips for Both Itineraries:

Accommodations: The park offers a mix of campgrounds, lodges, and nearby towns with motels and inns. It's important to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall is the best time to visit for mild weather and to experience the full range of outdoor activities. Winter offers fewer crowds but comes with cooler, wetter conditions.
Packing Tips: Be sure to bring layers, as the weather can be unpredictable with fog and rain, especially along the coast. Hiking shoes and sunscreen are also essential.

With these itineraries, whether you have 3 or 5 days, you can enjoy a mix of short hikes, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and the majestic beauty of the redwoods.