7 Best Hikes in Redwood National Park

Discovering the Majestic Redwood National Park Hiking Trails

Redwood National Park, a realm of towering trees and breathtaking landscapes, beckons adventurers from around the globe. Its ancient redwood forests, sculpted coastlines, and verdant prairies offer a diverse tapestry of experiences. For hiking enthusiasts, the park presents a treasure trove of trails, each unveiling unique facets of this natural wonder. Choosing the right trail can be daunting, so we've curated a list of the 7 best hikes in Redwood National Park, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this arboreal paradise.

Exploring Redwood Creek Trail Unveiling Hidden Gems

Redwood Creek Trail is a moderate 8.2-mile out-and-back trail offering stunning views of Redwood Creek and the surrounding forest. It's known for its relative solitude compared to some of the more popular trails, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful escape. The trail meanders through lush undergrowth, showcasing diverse plant life and providing opportunities for wildlife sightings. Keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, and a variety of bird species. The trail's gentle elevation gain makes it accessible to hikers of varying fitness levels.

Trail Highlights:

• Old-growth redwood forest: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of ancient redwood trees.
• Redwood Creek views: Enjoy picturesque vistas of the creek and its surrounding landscape.
• Wildlife viewing: Observe the diverse wildlife that calls Redwood National Park home.
• Relative solitude: Escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful hiking experience.

Gear Recommendation: For Redwood Creek Trail, we recommend the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX hiking boots. These boots provide excellent ankle support, waterproof protection, and superior traction, ensuring a comfortable and safe hike on the sometimes-uneven terrain. The Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet dry in wet conditions, while the Contagrip outsole offers exceptional grip on slippery surfaces.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX - Usage Cases:

• Day hiking: Ideal for day hikes on moderate terrain.
• Backpacking (light loads): Suitable for backpacking trips with lighter loads.
• Wet conditions: Excellent for hiking in wet or muddy environments.
• Uneven terrain: Provides stability and support on uneven trails.

Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX - Detailed Information:

• Price: Approximately $160-$180
• Weight: Approximately 1.1 lbs per pair
• Waterproof: Gore-Tex membrane
• Outsole: Contagrip MA
• Midsole: EnergyCell
• Upper: Synthetic

Trillium Falls Trail Embarking on a Short but Sweet Adventure

Trillium Falls Trail is a short and easy 2.5-mile loop trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall cascading down moss-covered rocks. This trail is perfect for families with young children or those seeking a leisurely stroll through the forest. The trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it accessible to hikers of all abilities. The highlight of the trail is undoubtedly Trillium Falls, a picturesque waterfall that provides a refreshing respite on a warm day. The surrounding forest is lush and verdant, teeming with ferns, mosses, and other plant life.

Trail Highlights:

• Trillium Falls: Witness the beauty of a cascading waterfall.
• Easy hiking: Enjoy a leisurely stroll on a well-maintained trail.
• Family-friendly: Perfect for families with young children.
• Lush forest: Immerse yourself in the verdant beauty of the redwood forest.

Gear Recommendation: For Trillium Falls Trail, we recommend the Osprey Talon 22 backpack. This lightweight and comfortable backpack is perfect for carrying essentials such as water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. The AirScape backpanel provides excellent ventilation, keeping you cool and comfortable on warm days. The adjustable harness and hipbelt ensure a secure and comfortable fit, while the multiple pockets provide ample storage space for your gear.

Osprey Talon 22 - Usage Cases:

• Day hiking: Ideal for day hikes of varying lengths.
• Trail running: Suitable for trail running with minimal gear.
• Everyday use: Versatile enough for everyday use, such as commuting or running errands.
• Traveling: Can be used as a carry-on bag for travel.

Osprey Talon 22 - Detailed Information:

• Price: Approximately $130-$150
• Weight: Approximately 1.7 lbs
• Capacity: 22 liters
• Backpanel: AirScape
• Harness: BioStretch
• Hipbelt: BioStretch

Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail A Gentle Stroll Among Giants

Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail is a 1.5-mile loop trail that offers a gentle introduction to the majesty of redwood trees. Named in honor of the former First Lady, this trail winds through a grove of towering redwoods, providing ample opportunities to marvel at their size and beauty. The trail is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it accessible to hikers of all abilities. Interpretive signs along the trail provide information about the redwood forest ecosystem and the history of the grove. This trail is a great option for those seeking a short and easy hike that showcases the grandeur of Redwood National Park.

Trail Highlights:

• Giant redwood trees: Witness the awe-inspiring size of redwood trees.
• Easy hiking: Enjoy a leisurely stroll on a well-maintained trail.
• Interpretive signs: Learn about the redwood forest ecosystem.
• Historical significance: Discover the history of the Lady Bird Johnson Grove.

Gear Recommendation: For Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, we recommend the Black Diamond Spot 400 headlamp. While the trail is short and easy, it's always a good idea to carry a headlamp, especially if you're hiking in the late afternoon or early evening. The Black Diamond Spot 400 is a lightweight and compact headlamp that provides ample light for navigating the trail. It features multiple brightness settings, including a strobe mode for emergencies. The headlamp is also waterproof, making it suitable for hiking in wet conditions.

Black Diamond Spot 400 - Usage Cases:

• Hiking: Ideal for hiking in low-light conditions.
• Camping: Useful for navigating around the campsite at night.
• Backpacking: A lightweight and essential item for backpacking trips.
• Emergency preparedness: A valuable tool for emergency situations.

Black Diamond Spot 400 - Detailed Information:

• Price: Approximately $40-$50
• Weight: Approximately 3.4 oz
• Brightness: 400 lumens
• Battery life: Up to 200 hours on low setting
• Waterproof: IPX8
• Batteries: Uses 3 AAA batteries (included)

Tall Trees Grove Trail Descending into Redwood Giants Domain

Tall Trees Grove Trail is a challenging 3.3-mile out-and-back trail that leads to a grove of some of the tallest trees in the world. This trail requires a permit, which can be obtained at the Redwood National Park visitor center. The trail descends steeply into the grove, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of these towering giants. The descent is followed by a strenuous climb back up, making this trail suitable for experienced hikers. The grove itself is a truly awe-inspiring place, where you can feel dwarfed by the immense size of the redwood trees. The stillness and silence of the grove create a sense of profound peace and tranquility.

Trail Highlights:

• Tallest trees in the world: Witness the unparalleled height of redwood trees.
• Challenging hike: Enjoy a strenuous workout with rewarding views.
• Permit required: Plan ahead and obtain a permit before hiking.
• Peaceful atmosphere: Experience the tranquility of the redwood forest.

Gear Recommendation: For Tall Trees Grove Trail, we recommend trekking poles, such as the Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork trekking poles. These poles provide added stability and support on the steep descent and ascent, reducing strain on your knees and ankles. The ergonomic cork grips provide a comfortable and secure hold, while the adjustable length allows you to customize the poles to your height. Trekking poles are an essential piece of gear for this challenging hike.

Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork - Usage Cases:

• Hiking: Provides stability and support on various terrain.
• Backpacking: Reduces strain on joints during long backpacking trips.
• Trail running: Offers added stability on uneven trails.
• Snowshoeing: Can be used with snow baskets for snowshoeing.

Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork - Detailed Information:

• Price: Approximately $100-$120
• Weight: Approximately 1 lb 1 oz per pair
• Grip: Cork
• Shaft: Aluminum
• Adjustability: FlickLock Pro
• Tip: Carbide

Fern Canyon Trail Walking Through a Living Wall of Green

Fern Canyon Trail is a unique and unforgettable 1-mile loop trail that winds through a narrow canyon covered in lush ferns. This trail was featured in the movie "Jurassic Park 2," and it's easy to see why. The canyon walls are draped in a tapestry of ferns, creating a surreal and enchanting atmosphere. The trail requires wading through ankle-deep water in some sections, adding to the adventure. Fern Canyon Trail is a must-see for anyone visiting Redwood National Park, offering a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

Trail Highlights:

• Fern-covered canyon: Witness the unique beauty of a fern-draped canyon.
• Movie location: Explore the filming location of "Jurassic Park 2."
• Wading required: Prepare to get your feet wet.
• Immersive experience: Enjoy a truly unforgettable hiking adventure.

Gear Recommendation: For Fern Canyon Trail, we recommend waterproof hiking sandals or water shoes, such as the Teva Hurricane XLT2 sandals. These sandals provide excellent traction and support, while also allowing your feet to breathe. They are also quick-drying, making them ideal for wading through water. Avoid wearing hiking boots or sneakers on this trail, as they will get wet and uncomfortable.

Teva Hurricane XLT2 - Usage Cases:

• Hiking in wet environments: Ideal for hiking through rivers, streams, and canyons.
• Water sports: Suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
• Everyday wear: Comfortable and versatile enough for everyday wear.
• Traveling: A great option for traveling to warm and wet climates.

Teva Hurricane XLT2 - Detailed Information:

• Price: Approximately $70-$80
• Weight: Approximately 10 oz per sandal
• Upper: Recycled PET plastic
• Midsole: EVA
• Outsole: Durabrasion Rubber
• Closure: Hook-and-loop

Coastal Trail Exploring the Rugged Beauty of the Pacific Coast

The Coastal Trail stretches for over 70 miles along the rugged Pacific coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and beaches. This trail can be hiked in sections, allowing you to customize your experience. The trail traverses diverse terrain, including sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and forested bluffs. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife, such as whales, seals, and seabirds. The Coastal Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that showcases the dramatic beauty of the California coast.

Trail Highlights:

• Ocean views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean.
• Diverse terrain: Explore sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and forested bluffs.
• Wildlife viewing: Observe marine wildlife, such as whales and seals.
• Long-distance hiking: Challenge yourself with a multi-day hike.

Gear Recommendation: For the Coastal Trail, we recommend a reliable water filter, such as the Sawyer Squeeze water filter. Access to potable water can be limited along the trail, so it's essential to carry a water filter to purify water from natural sources. The Sawyer Squeeze is lightweight, compact, and easy to use, making it a perfect choice for backpacking and hiking. It can filter up to 1 million gallons of water, providing you with safe and clean drinking water throughout your hike.

Sawyer Squeeze - Usage Cases:

• Backpacking: Essential for purifying water on backpacking trips.
• Hiking: Provides access to clean drinking water on long hikes.
• Travel: Useful for purifying water in countries with questionable water quality.
• Emergency preparedness: A valuable tool for emergency situations.

Sawyer Squeeze - Detailed Information:

• Price: Approximately $30-$40
• Weight: Approximately 3 oz
• Filter life: Up to 1 million gallons
• Filter type: Hollow fiber membrane
• Removes: Bacteria, protozoa, and microplastics
• Includes: Squeeze pouch, cleaning syringe, and backwashing adapter

Muir Woods National Monument Contrasting Redwood Experiences

While technically not within Redwood National Park itself, Muir Woods National Monument is a close and worthwhile addition to any Redwood exploration. It offers a slightly different experience, with a more developed infrastructure and easier accessibility. The trails are paved and well-maintained, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. The grove is home to towering redwood trees, providing a similar sense of awe and wonder as Redwood National Park. Muir Woods is a great option for those seeking a more accessible and convenient redwood experience.

Monument Highlights:

• Giant redwood trees: Witness the awe-inspiring size of redwood trees.
• Easy accessibility: Enjoy paved and well-maintained trails.
• Convenient location: Located close to San Francisco.
• Visitor center: Learn about the redwood forest ecosystem.

Gear Recommendation: For Muir Woods National Monument, comfort is key. Since the trails are mostly paved and relatively flat, comfortable walking shoes are a must. We recommend the Allbirds Wool Runners. These shoes are made from merino wool, which is naturally breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping your feet cool and dry. They are also lightweight and flexible, providing all-day comfort. The minimalist design makes them versatile enough for both hiking and everyday wear.

Allbirds Wool Runners - Usage Cases:

• Walking: Ideal for walking on paved surfaces and easy trails.
• Everyday wear: Comfortable and stylish enough for everyday wear.
• Traveling: Lightweight and packable, making them great for travel.
• Light hiking: Suitable for light hiking on well-maintained trails.

Allbirds Wool Runners - Detailed Information:

• Price: Approximately $100-$120
• Weight: Approximately 7.8 oz per shoe
• Upper: Merino wool
• Midsole: SweetFoam (made from sugarcane)
• Outsole: FSC-certified natural rubber
• Sustainable: Made from sustainable materials

Comparing Hiking Gear for Redwood Adventures A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and safe hiking experience in Redwood National Park. Let's compare some of the recommended products across different categories:

Hiking Boots: Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX vs. Alternatives

• Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX: Excellent ankle support, waterproof protection, and superior traction. Ideal for moderate terrain and wet conditions.
• Alternatives:
  • Merrell Moab 2 Mid Waterproof: A popular and affordable option with good comfort and traction.
  • Keen Targhee III Mid Waterproof: Known for its wider toe box and durable construction.

Backpacks: Osprey Talon 22 vs. Alternatives

• Osprey Talon 22: Lightweight, comfortable, and versatile backpack for day hiking and everyday use.
• Alternatives:
  • REI Co-op Flash 22: A lightweight and packable backpack with a focus on sustainability.
  • Deuter Speed Lite 20: A streamlined and lightweight backpack designed for fast-paced activities.

Headlamps: Black Diamond Spot 400 vs. Alternatives

• Black Diamond Spot 400: Lightweight, compact, and reliable headlamp with multiple brightness settings.
• Alternatives:
  • Petzl Actik Core: A versatile headlamp with a rechargeable battery and a hybrid concept.
  • Nitecore NU25 UL: An ultralight and compact headlamp with a high lumen output.

Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork vs. Alternatives

• Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork: Durable and adjustable trekking poles with ergonomic cork grips.
• Alternatives:
  • Leki Makalu Lite Cor-Tec AS: High-quality trekking poles with a comfortable cork grip and anti-shock system.
  • REI Co-op Traverse Power Lock Trekking Poles: Affordable and reliable trekking poles with a comfortable grip.

Water Shoes/Sandals: Teva Hurricane XLT2 vs. Alternatives

• Teva Hurricane XLT2: Durable and comfortable waterproof sandals with excellent traction.
• Alternatives:
  • Chaco Z/Cloud: Customizable sandals with a durable construction and excellent arch support.
  • Merrell Hydro Moc: Lightweight and comfortable water shoes with a unique design.

Water Filters: Sawyer Squeeze vs. Alternatives

• Sawyer Squeeze: Lightweight, compact, and reliable water filter with a long lifespan.
• Alternatives:
  • LifeStraw Personal Water Filter: A simple and affordable water filter in a straw format.
  • Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter Bottle: A convenient water filter bottle with a fast flow rate.

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Allbirds Wool Runners vs. Alternatives

• Allbirds Wool Runners: Comfortable and sustainable walking shoes made from merino wool.
• Alternatives:
  • Brooks Ghost 14: A popular running shoe known for its cushioning and comfort.
  • New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v12: A comfortable and supportive running shoe with a plush ride.

Planning Your Redwood National Park Hiking Trip Essential Tips

Before embarking on your Redwood National Park hiking adventure, consider these essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Check the weather forecast: Redwood National Park can experience a variety of weather conditions, so be prepared for rain, fog, and sunshine.
• Obtain permits: Some trails, such as Tall Trees Grove Trail, require permits. Obtain these in advance at the Redwood National Park visitor center.
• Pack appropriately: Wear layers of clothing, bring plenty of water and snacks, and carry a map and compass.
• Leave no trace: Pack out everything you pack in and stay on designated trails.
• Be aware of wildlife: Redwood National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, mountain lions, and Roosevelt elk. Keep a safe distance and never feed the animals.
• Respect the environment: Redwood National Park is a precious natural resource. Treat it with respect and help preserve it for future generations.
• Tell someone your plans: Inform a friend or family member of your hiking plans, including your route and expected return time.
• Be prepared for emergencies: Carry a first-aid kit and know how to use it. Have a plan in case of an emergency.

Embracing the Redwood Experience A Journey Through Time

Hiking in Redwood National Park is more than just a physical activity; it's a journey through time. As you walk among these ancient giants, you'll feel a connection to the natural world that is both profound and humbling. The towering trees, the lush undergrowth, and the serene atmosphere create an experience that will stay with you long after you leave. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and prepare to be amazed by the beauty and majesty of Redwood National Park. The memories you create here will last a lifetime.

Remember to always check the official Redwood National Park website for the latest updates on trail conditions, closures, and safety information before your visit. Happy hiking!