(December 21, 2024) Introducing Redwood National and State Parks: California's Ancient Giants

Introduction to Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks are places of ancient majesty, where the tallest trees on earth reach skyward, creating a cathedral of green that' s as humbling as it is beautiful. My first walk among the redwoods felt like entering a sacred space, where the sheer size and age of these giants inspired a profound sense of awe. The peace and tranquility of the forest, with sunlight filtering through the towering canopy and the scent of damp earth in the air, made every step feel like a journey back in time. The quiet majesty of these trees, some of which have stood for over 2,000 years, is a reminder of the enduring power and resilience of nature. Redwood is a place that stays with you long after you leave, its beauty etched into your memory like the rings of the ancient trees themselves

How to Reach Redwood National and State Parks

From the North (Eugene, OR): Travelers can take Interstate 5 south to Grants Pass, then follow US-199 southwest to Crescent City, CA, the gateway to the parks. The distance is approximately 200 miles, with a travel time of around 4 hours.

From the South (San Francisco, CA): Visitors from San Francisco can take US-101 north directly to the parks. This route covers about 320 miles and takes around 6 hours.

From the East (Redding, CA): From Redding, take CA-299 west to US-101 north to the parks. This journey spans approximately 150 miles and takes around 3 hours.

From the West (Pacific Ocean): The parks are located along the coast, with several access points from US-101.

Exploring Redwood: Must-Visit Sites

• Tall Trees Grove: Home to some of the tallest trees in the world, accessible via a permit-only hike.
• Lady Bird Johnson Grove: A scenic trail through old-growth redwoods, dedicated to the former First Lady.
• Fern Canyon: A lush canyon with walls covered in ferns, offering a unique hiking experience.
• Gold Bluffs Beach: A beautiful coastal area with opportunities for beachcombing and wildlife viewing.

Seasonal Variations

Redwood's ancient forests offer beauty year-round:

• Spring: Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers create ideal conditions for hiking and exploration.
• Summer: Warm weather and clear skies provide excellent visibility and access to all park areas.
• Fall: Cooler temperatures and fewer visitors create a peaceful environment, with vibrant fall foliage in some areas.
• Winter: Rainy weather brings lush green landscapes, and the parks are less crowded, offering a serene experience.

Visitor Updates for Redwood National and State Parks

Conservation Efforts

William Stanek's photography in Redwood emphasizes the park's ancient and majestic trees. His work highlights the importance of preserving these natural giants from the impacts of climate change, logging, and human activity, advocating for the protection of the park's unique ecosystems and biodiversity.

1 Day at Redwood National and State Parks: California's Coastal Giants

Introduction

Redwood National and State Parks, located along the coast of northern California, are known for their towering redwoods, lush forests, and scenic coastline. Here's a detailed guide to making the most of your visit, with expert tips from William and Hui Cha Stanek.

Morning: Sunrise and Ancient Trees

6:00 AM - Sunrise at Lady Bird Johnson Grove

• Overview: Start your day with a breathtaking sunrise at Lady Bird Johnson Grove, where the morning light filters through the towering redwoods.
• Tips from William: Arrive early to set up your tripod and capture the sunrise. Use a wide-angle lens to encompass the entire scene.
• Insights from Hui Cha: Dress warmly and bring a thermos of hot coffee or tea. The early morning forest air can be chilly.

7:30 AM - Breakfast in Orick

• Overview: Head to the nearby town of Orick for a quick breakfast at a local caf .
• Tips from William: Capture the morning light on the town's charming streets.
• Insights from Hui Cha: Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel your day. Grab some snacks and water for later.

Mid-Morning: Exploring the Redwoods

8:30 AM - Tall Trees Grove

• Overview: Hike to Tall Trees Grove, home to some of the tallest trees in the world.
• Tips from William: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the immense height of the trees. The morning light is perfect for photography.
• Insights from Hui Cha: The trail is moderately strenuous, so wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. The views are worth the effort.

10:30 AM - Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway

• Overview: Drive along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, which offers stunning views of old-growth redwoods.
• Tips from William: Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the colors of the forest. Stop frequently to capture the stunning vistas.
• Insights from Hui Cha: Take your time and enjoy the drive. The road can be narrow and winding, so drive carefully.

Afternoon: Coastal Views and Short Hikes

12:00 PM - Picnic Lunch at Gold Bluffs Beach

• Overview: Enjoy a packed lunch at Gold Bluffs Beach, a beautiful spot with stunning ocean views.
• Tips from William: Capture candid moments of your picnic with the beach and bluffs backdrop.
• Insights from Hui Cha: Pack a nutritious and energizing meal. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the coastal surroundings.

1:30 PM - Fern Canyon

• Overview: Hike through Fern Canyon, a lush canyon with walls covered in ferns and moss.
• Tips from William: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the unique landscape. The afternoon light enhances the colors and textures.
• Insights from Hui Cha: The trail can be damp, so wear waterproof shoes. The canyon is a magical place, perfect for photos and exploration.

3:00 PM - Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

• Overview: Visit Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, which offers more opportunities to see towering redwoods and wildlife.
• Tips from William: Use a telephoto lens to capture distant wildlife and the majestic trees. Late afternoon light is ideal for photography.
• Insights from Hui Cha: The area is rich in wildlife, so bring binoculars and be patient. Enjoy the scenic trails and viewpoints.

Late Afternoon: Photography and Relaxation

4:30 PM - Trillium Falls Trail

• Overview: Hike the Trillium Falls Trail, a 2.5-mile loop that offers views of a beautiful waterfall and lush forest.
• Tips from William: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the waterfall and surrounding forest. Experiment with different compositions and perspectives.
• Insights from Hui Cha: This is a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery. Bring a snack and enjoy the view.

Evening: Sunset and Dinner

6:00 PM - Sunset at Klamath River Overlook

• Overview: Head to Klamath River Overlook for a stunning sunset view over the river and ocean.
• Tips from William: Use a graduated neutral density filter to balance the exposure. Experiment with long exposures to capture the changing light.
• Insights from Hui Cha: Arrive early to find a good spot. Bring a light jacket as it can get cool after sunset.

7:30 PM - Dinner in Crescent City

• Overview: Return to Crescent City for a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant.
• Tips from William: Capture the evening atmosphere of the town. Try some local California cuisine to end your day.
• Insights from Hui Cha: Reflect on the day's adventures and enjoy a hearty meal. Crescent City offers a variety of dining options with a welcoming atmosphere.

Redwood National and State Parks (California)

Redwood National and State Parks, located along the northern coast of California, are home to the world's tallest trees, the ancient coast redwoods. Covering over 138,000 acres, the parks feature old-growth forests, scenic coastline, and diverse ecosystems, offering a unique and awe-inspiring destination for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Park History and Cultural Significance:

• Established as a national park in 1968 and combined with state parks, Redwood protects significant natural and cultural resources, including some of the tallest trees on Earth.
• The area has a rich history of Native American habitation, particularly by the Yurok, Tolowa, and Chilula tribes. The parks also preserve sites related to early European settlers and logging operations.

Visitor Centers and Facilities:

• Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center: Offers exhibits on the park's natural and cultural history, a park film, maps, information, restrooms, and a gift shop.
• Prairie Creek Visitor Center: Provides exhibits, maps, information, restrooms, and access to nearby trails.
• Hiouchi Visitor Center: Offers information, restrooms, and access to the Smith River and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
• Campgrounds: The parks have several campgrounds, including Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, and Gold Bluffs Beach, offering basic amenities like restrooms and picnic tables.

Best Times to Visit:

• Spring (April to June): Ideal for moderate temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
• Summer (July to September): Warm weather perfect for exploring the parks, though it can be crowded.
• Fall (October to November): Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make this a great time to visit, with beautiful fall foliage.
• Winter (December to March): Offers solitude and opportunities for winter activities like hiking and wildlife watching, but temperatures can be cold, and some roads and facilities may be closed.

Activities and Recreation:

• Hiking: Trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes, including the Tall Trees Grove Trail, Fern Canyon Trail, and the Boy Scout Tree Trail.
• Wildlife Watching: Opportunities to see Roosevelt elk, black bears, and a variety of bird species.
• Scenic Drives: The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and Howland Hill Road offer breathtaking views of the parks' landscapes and access to many trailheads and viewpoints.
• Camping: Campgrounds provide opportunities for both frontcountry and backcountry camping.
• Beachcombing: Explore the parks' rugged coastline and discover tide pools, sea stacks, and sandy beaches.
• Photography: The parks' towering redwoods and stunning landscapes provide endless opportunities for photography, particularly at sunrise and sunset.

Accessibility Information:

• The Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center, Prairie Creek Visitor Center, and Hiouchi Visitor Center are wheelchair accessible.
• Accessible trails include the Revelation Trail and the Elk Prairie Trail.
• Accessible campgrounds and restrooms are available throughout the parks.

Permits and Regulations:

• Entrance Fees: Required for entry to state park areas; passes can be purchased online or at park entrances.
• Camping Permits: Required for camping at designated campgrounds. Reservations are recommended during peak seasons.
• Backcountry Permits: Required for overnight stays in backcountry areas.
• Special Use Permits: Needed for activities such as weddings, commercial filming, and large group gatherings.

Nearby: Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

1. Humboldt Redwoods State Park: About an hour from Redwood National and State Parks, this park features the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic highway through towering redwoods.

   • Activities: Scenic driving, hiking, camping.
   • Notable Sites: Founders Grove, Rockefeller Forest.
   • Wildlife: Roosevelt elk, black bears, various bird species.

2. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: Located within the Redwood National and State Parks complex, this park features old-growth redwoods, Fern Canyon, and abundant wildlife.

   • Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, camping.
   • Notable Trails: Fern Canyon, James Irvine Trail.
   • Wildlife: Roosevelt elk, black bears, various bird species.

Important Updates for Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks (California)

Redwood National and State Parks, located along the northern coast of California, are renowned for their ancient, towering redwood trees, lush forests, and scenic coastal landscapes. The park complex, which includes Redwood National Park and several state parks (Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks), offers visitors a unique experience of both natural and cultural wonders. Renowned photographers William and Hui Cha Stanek have captured the park's breathtaking beauty through their lenses. This guide explores local attractions, nearby towns and cities, scenic drives, and the best hikes in and around Redwood National and State Parks, enriched by the Staneks' expertise and experiences.

 The nearby towns of Crescent City and Orick serve as primary gateways to the parks, providing a variety of amenities including lodging, dining, and shops. Crescent City is home to the Crescent City Harbor and Battery Point Lighthouse, offering picturesque views and maritime history.

The town of Arcata, located further south, offers additional amenities and attractions, including the Arcata Community Forest and the Humboldt State University Natural History Museum. Arcata's vibrant downtown area features shops, restaurants, and a lively farmers market.

For those interested in exploring more of California's stunning coastline, the nearby Trinidad State Beach and Patrick's Point State Park offer beautiful coastal scenery and opportunities for tide pooling, hiking, and wildlife viewing.