Redwood NP and SP
The North - California
General information about the National Park
This area of the Redwood National Park protects 50% of the world's population of coast redwoods.
Number of visitors
In 2023 Redwood NP ranked 44th in the visitor statistics of the most visited national parks.
Best time to visit: Between May and October.
Our visits:
So far 1 visit: July 1998
Entrance fees and opening hours
- Free of charge
- Covered by the Anual Pass*
- Open 24h all year round.
*The Anual Pass is so to speak the "flat rate" for all Parks managed by the National Park Service. The pass costs a one-time fee of $80 and can be purchased at the entrance to each National Park, National Monument, etc. The pass is valid for 13 months.
Redwood NP
Description: The area around Redwood NP and the surrounding SP was placed under protection after almost all of the naturally growing coast redwoods were cut down. The protected area contains 50% of the naturally growing coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens). The California Redwood is the tallest tree in the world. Since the whole protected area stretches along the coast of California, you never know if you are in a state park or a national park. But in the end it doesn't matter, the trees are equally impressive everywhere.
Our rating: The trees are gigantic and it is very hard to describe how huge they are. Just like the Grand Canyon, you have to see these huge trees with your own eyes to get an impression of their size. We were very impressed and will definitely stop by again if we are ever in the area again. High recommendation!
Fern Canyon Trail
Description: The trail in Fern Canyon was recommended to us by a ranger at the visitor center. In June 1998, when we were there, the road to the trailhead was unpaved and a bit of an adventure for us. We don't know how it is currently, but since this is a very popular trail, it is certainly reasonably accessible. The trail is about 0.6mi long and leads through a canyon covered with thousands of ferns.
Our rating: Fern Canyon was definitely a highlight during our visit to Redwood NP. You should definitely come here, it's worth it. Also, it is very likely that you will meet a herd of wapiti deer here.
