If you’re craving misty forests, winding coastal roads, and the quiet awe of standing beneath trees older than most civilizations — this California Redwood Road Trip is calling your name.
As a California native, I’ve been lucky to grow up near these towering giants, and I still get chills every time I walk among them. The redwoods aren’t just trees — they’re living legends. Some stretch over 350 feet into the sky, and many have been around for over 2,000 years.
This 7-day Northern California redwood road trip will take you from buzzing city life to the tranquil heart of redwood country. Along the way, you’ll explore ancient forests, coastal cliffs, hidden beaches, and charming small towns that feel like time forgot them. Whether you’re an avid hiker, scenic driver, or forest bather in training — there’s something on this itinerary for you.
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7 Day California Redwood Road Trip Itinerary Breakdown:
Starting Your Californian Redwood Road Trip:
This road trip can kick off from either San Francisco or Sacramento, making it an easy getaway whether you’re flying in or already exploring California. From there, head north along the legendary Highway 101 into redwood country — where every bend in the road brings a new jaw-dropping view.
This road trip can kick off from either San Francisco or Sacramento, making it an easy getaway whether you’re flying in or already exploring California. From there, head north along the legendary Highway 101 into redwood country — where every bend in the road brings a new jaw-dropping view.
📍 Optional Detour: Shelter Cove on the Lost Coast
Want to start your journey with dramatic ocean cliffs and secluded black sand beaches? Take a scenic detour to Shelter Cove, a hidden gem tucked along the remote Lost Coast. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs and breathe in that salty sea air before diving into the redwoods.
📝 Read more in my full guide: Visiting Shelter Cove: California’s Lost Coast Paradise
🌲 California Redwood Road Trip Itinerary at a Glance
| 🗺️ Trip Duration | 7 Days / 6 Nights |
|---|---|
| 🚘 Start Point | San Francisco or Sacramento, CA |
| 🏁 End Point | Crescent City, CA |
| 📏 Total Distance | ~500–600 miles (depending on detours) |
| 🏕️ Trip Style | Scenic drive, camping, small towns, nature & wildlife |
| 🐾 Dog Friendly? | Yes — many trails, beaches & lodging options allow pets! |
| 🚗 Vehicle Type Needed? | Standard car okay (all paved roads) — large trailers not recommended on windy roads |
Day 1: Avenue of the Giants – A Magical Redwood Welcome
Route: San Francisco/Sacramento ➝ Fortuna
Distance: ~220 miles (from San Francisco) or ~150 miles (from Sacramento)
Drive Time: 4–5 hours (depending on stops)
Your California Redwood Road Trip kicks off with one of the most iconic drives in the state — the Avenue of the Giants. As you cruise north on Highway 101, you’ll enter a 31-mile stretch of old Highway 101 that weaves through the heart of Humboldt Redwoods State Park, home to some of the tallest and oldest trees on Earth.
Get ready to trade skyscrapers for redwoods, city noise for forest silence, and straight roads for winding tree tunnels.
🌲 Must-See Stops on the Avenue of the Giant
- Founders Grove
- A short, easy trail with massive payoff. This grove is home to the Founders Tree, which towers an incredible 346 feet tall. You’ll walk among fallen giants, hollow trunks big enough to stand in, and a silence that feels sacred. It’s a perfect introduction to the magic of the redwoods.
- Drive-Thru Trees
- Sure, it’s a little kitschy — but when else can you literally drive your car through a living redwood? There are three options along the route (including the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree in Myers Flat), each charging a small fee. Whether you’re road-tripping with kids or just want a one-of-a-kind photo op, it’s a fun stop worth making.
- Myers Flat Visitor Center
- This small but helpful stop has maps, ranger advice, and a great overview of redwood ecology. It’s also a good place to ask about current trail conditions or grab a souvenir from the local gift shop.
- Scenic Pullouts & Groves
- Don’t rush the Avenue — the beauty is in the journey. Pull over at the signed groves or scenic vistas for short walks, towering trees, and photo ops without the crowds. Some of the best groves feel like outdoor cathedrals where sunlight filters through the canopy in golden beams.
➡️ Pro Tip: The Avenue of the Giants can be driven in about an hour — but you’ll want to give yourself 2–3 hours minimum to truly enjoy the groves, take photos, and soak in the serenity.
🌿 Overnight Stop: Fortuna – Gateway to the Redwoods
After a full day of forest wandering, head north to Fortuna, a relaxed small town with all the conveniences you need. It’s a great base for the night before diving deeper into redwood country.
We stayed at the Redwood Riverwalk Hotel — it’s dog-friendly, has cozy rooms, and serves up a hearty breakfast that hits the spot after a long day of exploring. Fortuna also has several restaurants and grocery stores, making it an easy stop to refuel before Day 2 of your adventure.
Day 2: Grizzly Creek Redwoods & Wildlife Encounters on the California Coast
After a peaceful night in Fortuna, it’s time to dive even deeper into the redwood forest. Today’s route takes you from the quiet beauty of Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park to the wildlife-rich wetlands of Humboldt Bay, before wrapping up in the charming coastal town of Trinidad. It’s a perfect blend of forest, wildlife, and ocean views — a true highlight of your California Redwood Road Trip.
🌲 Morning: Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park
📍 Drive Time from Fortuna: 30–45 minutes
Grizzly Creek may be one of the smaller redwood parks, but that just adds to its peaceful charm. Nestled along the Van Duzen River, it feels like a hidden world of towering trees, fern-filled trails, and soft, mossy silence.
- 🌿 Redwood Creek Trail
- A gentle 1.5-mile loop that immerses you in the forest from the moment your boots hit the ground. Perfect for families or anyone easing into their hiking legs, this trail winds beneath ancient redwoods and beside a babbling creek.
- 🎬 Cheatham Grove (Star Wars Fans, Don’t Miss This!)
- Just outside the main park, this short, flat trail leads you through the filming location for Return of the Jedi. If it feels familiar, it’s because you’ve seen it as the forest moon of Endor. Even if you’re not a movie buff, it’s a magical place to wander.
Other Trails & Wildlife
- Bald Hills Trail – A short, moderate climb with lovely forest views
- Spruce Creek Trail – A 3.5-mile challenge for more experienced hikers
Keep your eyes open — Roosevelt elk, deer, and all kinds of birds call this forest home.
🐦 Afternoon: Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge
📍 Drive Time to Refuge: ~45 minutes to 1 hour
Ready for a change of scenery? Head north toward Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge, where this 16,000-acre refuge of wetlands and marshes host a rich ecosystem of wildlife.
🚗 Wildlife Drive: Take the self-guided loop drive for panoramic views of the bay and easy wildlife spotting. Bring binoculars if you have them — you might catch a glimpse of egrets, herons, hawks, and even tundra swans during migration seasons.
🚣♀️ Optional: Kayak Tour – If you’re up for a little more adventure, book a kayak tour of the bay. It’s an unforgettable way to see the landscape from a whole new perspective — and the wildlife encounters are even more intimate.
🏘 Optional Stop: Historic Eureka
📍 Detour Mileage: ~25 miles
If you have extra time or are craving a dose of Victorian charm, take a detour into Eureka. This coastal town is home to the largest collection of Victorian-era homes west of the Mississippi. Wander down Second Street, grab a coffee, and admire the colorful architecture. Eureka is also a great place to grab a bite, refuel, or browse local boutiques.
Evening: Arrive in Trinidad – Where Redwoods Meet the Sea
📍 Drive Time: 20 miles from Eureka or ~35 miles from Humboldt Bay Refuge
Welcome to Trinidad, a quaint seaside village perched above the Pacific. It’s the perfect end to Day 2 — quiet, coastal, and full of charm.
🌅 What to Do in Trinidad:
- Explore tide pools at College Cove
- Watch the sunset from Trinidad Head Trail
- Dine on fresh seafood with an ocean view — Seascape Restaurant is a local favorite
🛏 Where to Stay in Trinidad:
We stayed at the Trinidad Inn, a charming roadside inn just minutes from the beach. It was clean, cozy, and made a perfect base for exploring the area. There are also B&Bs, oceanfront lodges, and vacation rentals if you’re staying longer.
Day 3: Coastal Bliss in Trinidad – Ocean Views, Scenic Trails & Beach Treasures
After two days of exploring ancient forests, Day 3 of your California Redwood Road Trip offers a refreshing shift: a full day soaking in the beauty of the rugged Northern California coastline. Nestled between sea cliffs and redwood groves, Trinidad is the perfect place to slow down and savor the coast.
☀️ Morning: Ocean Views & Trail Time
Start your day with breakfast at a local café — Beachcomber Café or Headies Pizza & Pour are great spots to grab a hearty bite or a coastal coffee. Then, lace up your hiking shoes and get ready to stretch your legs with a panoramic trail right from town.
🥾 Hike the Trinidad Head Trail
- Distance: ~2.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Moderate
This scenic headland trail offers sweeping views of Trinidad Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and, on clear days, the distant curve of the Lost Coast. From December to May, this is also a prime whale-watching spot, so bring binoculars if you have them!
🌊 Afternoon: Agate Hunting & Coastal Exploration at Sue-Meg State Park
📍 Drive Time from Trinidad: ~10 minutes
Head south to Sue-Meg State Park (formerly Patrick’s Point State Park), a lesser-known coastal treasure filled with forested trails, tidepools, and pebble-strewn beaches.
🌈 Agate Beach
- A paradise for beachcombers, this stretch of sand is famous for its colorful agates, jasper, and semi-precious stones. Sift through the tide lines and see what nature leaves behind.
🧭 Beachcombing & Rockhounding Tips:
- Bring a small bag to collect treasures
- Visit during low tide for the best finds
- Nearby Stone Lagoon and Big Lagoon also offer peaceful walks and the occasional shell or fossil
You can also take shorter hikes to viewpoints like Wedding Rock, which offers a dramatic perch above the ocean and is a great picnic or photo stop.
🌅 Evening: Sunset at College Cove + Coastal Dining
Wrap up the day with a magical sunset at College Cove, just north of Trinidad. At low tide, the beach opens up to reveal tidepools and sea life, but in the evening, it’s all about the colors — purples, golds, and fiery reds reflecting on the waves.
Bring a jacket, perch on a driftwood log or rock, and let the sound of crashing waves cap off your coastal day.
Dinner & Overnight in Trinidad
After sunset, head back into town for a cozy night in. Whether you’re looking for fresh seafood by the water or a relaxed drink by the fire, Trinidad offers a handful of charming options.
We spent another night at the Trinidad Inn, which felt just right — quiet, comfortable, and just minutes from both forest and shore.
Day 4 & 5: Camping Beneath Giants – Elk Prairie & the Heart of Redwood National & State Parks
The next leg of your California Redwood Road Trip takes you into the core of redwood country — where towering trees, waterfalls, and quiet forest trails await. For two days, you’ll trade hotels for campfires and sleep beneath the stars at Elk Prairie Campground, one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich spots in Redwood National and State Parks.
🏕️ Getting There: From Trinidad to Elk Prairie Campground
📍 Distance: ~27 miles
🕐 Drive Time: ~40 minutes
Start your morning with a relaxing breakfast in Trinidad, then hit the road heading north along Highway 101. This short but scenic drive offers glimpses of the Pacific Ocean, open meadows, and, of course, groves of redwoods.
Elk Prairie Campground: Base Camp Among the Redwoods
Tucked just off the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, Elk Prairie Campground is a magical place to set up camp. Surrounded by ancient trees and open meadows, it’s a favorite for spotting Roosevelt elk, especially at dawn and dusk.
🎒 Tip: If you’re visiting Trillium Falls on Day 4, consider hiking before you set up camp to avoid backtracking.
Day 4: Towering Trees & Hidden Waterfalls
Your first full day in the park is all about immersing yourself in some of the most iconic (and otherworldly) natural spaces on the West Coast.
🌲 Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
- Distance: ~1.5 miles loop
- Difficulty: Easy
One of the most famous trails in the park, this peaceful grove was named in honor of the former First Lady’s dedication to conservation. Walk through hushed corridors of towering redwoods and learn about the park’s history from interpretive signs along the trail.
💦 Trillium Falls Trail
- Distance: ~1.5 miles out-and-back
- Difficulty: Moderate
This short hike winds through younger second-growth redwoods and lush ferns before arriving at a small but beautiful waterfall. It’s a perfect midday escape that’s just challenging enough to keep things interesting.
🌿 Fern Canyon (A Must-See Stop!)
A highlight of any California Redwood Road Trip, Fern Canyon is straight out of a fantasy novel (or Jurassic Park — it was filmed here!).
- Distance: ~1-mile loop (can be extended)
- Tip: Expect to get your feet wet — the canyon floor is a shallow stream, and the trail requires walking across rocks, downed logs, and makeshift footbridges.
- Important: Check weather and road conditions before visiting. Fern Canyon may be inaccessible after heavy rains.
🌄 Evening Elk Watching:
Return to camp and keep your camera ready. The meadows around Elk Prairie are known for Roosevelt elk sightings, especially at sunrise and sunset. Seeing them graze in the golden light is a redwood road trip memory you won’t forget.
Day 5: Trails, Drives & Deep Forest Wandering
Spend your second day exploring even more of what makes this region so special — peaceful trails, scenic drives, and quiet moments beneath towering trees.
🌳 Elk Prairie Trail Network
There’s no need to drive — multiple trails start directly from the campground. Whether you’re in the mood for a short stroll or a moderate loop, you’ll find trails winding through prairies, redwood groves, and lush forest floors.
🐾 Optional: Cal-Barrel Road Trail
Traveling with a dog? This dog-friendly trail is a rare find in the redwoods. It’s a quiet, mostly shaded road that winds through a peaceful second-growth redwood forest — perfect for an easy walk with your furry companion.
🚗 Scenic Drive: Newton B. Drury Parkway
If your legs need a break, take a leisurely drive along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway — an alternative to Highway 101 that cuts through the heart of the park. Pull over at the Big Tree Wayside, Prairie Creek Visitor Center, or any of the many unsigned trailheads to wander at your own pace.
🔥 Evening Campfire & Stargazing
As your second night at Elk Prairie winds down, enjoy a campfire dinner under the redwood canopy. Bring a warm drink, wrap yourself in a blanket, and take in the silence of the forest. Without city lights, the stars above the redwoods shine brilliantly — a perfect close to a couple of unforgettable days in the park.
Day 6 & 7: Redwood Farewell & Coastal Charm in Crescent City
As your California Redwood Road Trip nears its end, the journey continues with one last stretch of redwood wonder and a relaxing coastal finale in Crescent City. From quirky roadside attractions to historic lighthouses and some of the tallest redwoods on Earth, these final days are the perfect send-off.
Day 6: A Fun Detour & a Coastal Welcome
📍 Route: Elk Prairie Campground ➝ Crescent City
📏 Mileage: ~100 miles
🕐 Drive Time: ~2.5 hours (without stops)
🍳 Morning: Camp Coffee & Redwood Goodbyes
Ease into your day with breakfast at your Elk Prairie Campground site, soaking in the cool forest air one last time. As you pack up and head north, make time for one last redwood stop…
🌲 Stop at Trees of Mystery (Highly Recommended!)
Located just off Highway 101 near Klamath, Trees of Mystery is a roadside favorite featuring towering redwood sculptures, a redwood canopy SkyTrail, and the famous 49-ft-tall statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox.
- 🐾 Dog-friendly
- 🪜 SkyTrail: Take an aerial gondola ride through the canopy
- 📚 Fun for families, couples, and solo travelers alike
It’s touristy in the best way and adds a fun, lighthearted twist to your journey.
🌊 Afternoon: Arrive in Crescent City
Welcome to Crescent City, a relaxed town with rugged coastal beauty and fascinating maritime history. After checking into your hotel or inn (many are budget-friendly and dog-friendly), take a moment to breathe in that fresh ocean air.
🏛️ Explore Crescent City’s Coastline
- Battery Point Lighthouse: One of California’s oldest lighthouses, accessible only at low tide via a short causeway. Time your visit right, and you can take a short tour inside for sweeping ocean views and local lore.
- Pebble Beach & South Beach: Perfect for a coastal walk or beachcombing
- Stroll the harbor and watch for seals, pelicans, and other wildlife
📸 Pro Tip: Sunset here is absolutely magical — especially with the lighthouse in silhouette!
Day 7: Last Hikes Through the Giants at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Park
📍 Drive Time to Trailheads: 10–25 minutes from downtown Crescent City
Your California Redwood Road Trip deserves a grand finale — and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park delivers just that. Known for its incredibly dense and untouched forests, it’s a must-see gem in the redwood crown.🥾 Stout Grove Trail
- Distance: ~0.5-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
This short but spectacular walk immerses you in some of the tallest and most photogenic redwoods in the region. Expect cathedral-like quiet and filtered golden light streaming through the canopy.
🎒 It’s often chilly here — pack layers!
🌲 Grove of Titans Trail
- Distance: ~1.5 miles out-and-back
- Difficulty: Moderate
Recently made more accessible thanks to a new elevated boardwalk, the Grove of Titans is home to some of the largest trees on Earth. Their size will leave you speechless, and the experience is deeply humbling.
🌿 Look for odd companions like sycamores and vine maples growing right out of the redwoods!
🥾 Boy Scout Tree Trail
- Distance: ~5.5 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
If you’re up for a challenge, this trail is the perfect sendoff. Hike through deep forest silence to the towering Boy Scout Tree, one of the largest known coast redwoods at over 238 feet tall.
👉 The tree is located about 2.5 miles in — watch for a subtle arrow pointing up a smaller path to the left.
🍽️ Evening: Seafood & Sunsets
Return to Crescent City for a final dinner on the coast. Local favorites include:
- SeaQuake Brewing – casual vibes, craft beers, and seafood
- Chart Room Restaurant – ocean views and hearty portions
- Crescent Seafood – for a more local takeout-style experience right by the marina
As the sun sets on your redwood journey, toast to unforgettable hikes, coastal memories, and the awe of standing among giants.
Redwood Road Trip Recap: Towering Trees & What Comes Next
As your California Redwood Road Trip comes to a close, take one last deep breath of that crisp coastal air. You’ve walked beneath thousand-year-old giants, camped under the stars, traced the Pacific coast, and uncovered some of the most magical landscapes in the Golden State.
Whether it was the misty hush of Stout Grove, the towering cliffs of Fern Canyon, or the golden hour glow at College Cove — this journey has been nothing short of unforgettable.
What’s Next? Your Adventure Doesn’t Have to End Here
🚗 Heading South: More California Coastline
If you’re looping back toward your starting point in San Francisco or Sacramento, continue your scenic journey down Highway 101. Relive coastal views, stop at favorite spots, or discover new ones you missed on the way up.
🌊 Heading North: Oregon Coast Awaits
Can’t get enough of the wild coastline? The Southern Oregon Coast is just up the road — filled with sea stacks, wind-swept beaches, and small towns full of character.
➡️ Craving more coastal inspiration? Check out my detailed itinerary: Unforgettable Southern Oregon Coast Camping: A 5-Day Itinerary
📌 Planning your own California Redwood Road Trip?
Save this post, share it with your travel buddies, and don’t forget to check out my other California itineraries for even more hidden gems, hiking trails, and road trip tips!
P.S. Like the vibe of these photos?
I’ve turned some of my favorite travel shots into art prints over on my Etsy shop! Not every place I write about makes it into the shop, but if you’re into dreamy landscapes, vintage surfers, or just love a cute puffin, come take a look: Night Star Studio on Etsy
