California Things To Do

California Redwoods Attractions & Things To Do

The California Redwoods region offers unforgettable ways to experience ancient forests, scenic roads, wild coastlines, and some of the tallest trees on earth. Explore the immense beauty and timeless atmosphere of this remarkable Northern California landscape.

Stout Memorial Grove with towering riverside redwoods in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Majestic riverside redwoods

Stout Memorial Grove

Towering redwoods shade this magnificent riverside grove in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Stroll along easy, flat paths winding among some of the park’s largest trees. The serene canopy and filtered sunlight create a dreamy, cathedral-like atmosphere perfect for peaceful walks.

Trail through misty old-growth redwoods at Lady Bird Johnson Grove in Redwood National Park

Misty ridge-top redwoods

Lady Bird Johnson Grove

Explore a loop trail through misty, old-growth giants dedicated to conservationist Lady Bird Johnson. Wooden bridges and interpretive signs highlight unique flora and park history along the way. The grove sits atop a ridge, rewarding visitors with both ancient trees and occasional coastal views.

Fern-covered canyon walls with a small stream running through Fern Canyon

Lush canyon adventure

Fern Canyon

Step into a living green cathedral where fern-draped canyon walls soar above a lush, winding stream. Rustic wooden footbridges add adventure as you wander through this otherworldly setting. Fern Canyon’s breathtaking scenery famously appeared in blockbuster films.

Scenic road winding through towering redwoods along Avenue of the Giants

Legendary scenic redwood drive

Avenue of the Giants

Cruise a legendary scenic highway surrounded by the planet’s tallest trees. Numerous pullouts and groves invite exploration amid the hushed majesty of ancient redwoods. The drive offers outstanding photo opportunities and instant immersion into primeval forest beauty.

Tall Trees Grove trail surrounded by towering redwoods in Redwood National Park

Secluded giant redwoods

Tall Trees Grove

Journey by permit on a secluded trail to stand among the world’s tallest living trees. Sunbeams slice through thick forest as birdsong echoes overhead, creating a magical, tranquil escape. The awe-inspiring size and solitude of the grove leave a lasting impression.

Hikers walking along the Boy Scout Tree Trail beneath towering redwoods

Classic forest hiking trail

Boy Scout Tree Trail

This winding hiking trail loops beneath an enormous redwood canopy, revealing moss-draped trees and lush undergrowth. The trek leads to the iconic Boy Scout Tree and a hidden waterfall called Fern Falls. Wildlife encounters and forest vistas make the adventure memorable.

Elevated boardwalk winding through massive redwoods in the Grove of Titans

Walk among giant titans

Grove of Titans

Marvel at giant, ancient trees once shrouded in mystery and secrecy. New boardwalks now protect fragile roots and offer stunning up-close views. Walk among some of earth’s largest living organisms and feel the quiet power of the forest.

Narrow dirt road winding through dense redwood forest along Howland Hill Road

Scenic backroad through giants

Howland Hill Road

Take a scenic drive along a narrow, serpentine dirt road enveloped by towering redwoods. Numerous trailheads and picnic spots beckon for quick stops or deeper exploration. Every curve unveils new perspectives on the park’s wild, primeval heart.

Hiker walking along the Karl Knapp Foothill Trail beneath tall redwoods

Peaceful trail beneath giants

Karl Knapp Foothill Trail

Wander peaceful paths beneath a soaring canopy standing tall above thriving forest life. Listen for tumbling creeks and spot wildlife tucked among the ferns and moss. Experience both grandeur and intimacy in this diverse ecosystem.

Trillium Falls cascading through lush forest along the Trillium Falls Trail

Waterfall loop through forest

Trillium Falls Trail

Follow a lush forest loop where colorful wildflowers and ferns flank the route year-round. At its center, cascading Trillium Falls creates a storybook setting for hikers and photographers alike. Verdant surroundings and cool shade make this a favorite spot for all ages.

Wide sandy shoreline and bluffs at Gold Bluffs Beach along the California coast

Wild beach and bluffs

Gold Bluffs Beach

Stroll broad sandy shores adorned with wildflowers and framed by dramatic bluffs and distant forest. Picnic with sweeping views of surf and sky as Roosevelt elk graze nearby. Ocean breezes and crashing waves invigorate your spirit in this coastal refuge.

Ocean view of Crescent Beach and offshore sea stacks from Crescent Beach Overlook

Dramatic coastal viewpoint

Crescent Beach Overlook

Take in sweeping ocean vistas dotted with rugged sea stacks from this perfect viewpoint. Bring binoculars to spot seabirds and watch waves crash against wild headlands. Sunsets here deliver dramatic light and a sense of coastal tranquility.

Roosevelt elk grazing in a grassy meadow bordered by redwood forest

Outstanding elk watching

Elk Meadow & Roosevelt Elk Viewing

Watch majestic Roosevelt elk graze and roam freely in sprawling meadows bordered by ancient trees. Wide-open spaces offer exceptional wildlife viewing and photo opportunities. The sense of wild California is unmistakable in this peaceful natural arena.

Sweeping view over forests and ridges from Redwood Creek Overlook along Bald Hills Road

Panoramic mountain road views

Bald Hills Road & Redwood Creek Overlook

Wind along panoramic mountain roads offering sweeping forest, prairie, and valley views. Pull off at Redwood Creek Overlook to savor endless horizons and golden sunsets. Scenic drives here connect you to the vastness and variety of the redwoods landscape.

Trees of Mystery attraction with redwood canopy and elevated SkyTrail gondola

Skywalk and forest fun

Trees of Mystery

Explore a quirky outdoor attraction where uniquely shaped redwoods and forest legends delight all ages. Ride the SkyTrail gondola high above the canopy, or brave the Redwood Skywalk for a treetop adventure. Hands-on exhibits and fun photos make it a memorable stop for travelers.