The Best Hikes and Trails in Redwood National Park
- Sarah Brooks
- Sep 11
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 6
We spent our time in Redwood National and State Parks with three trails that let us wander beneath tree giants, feel the ocean wind, and soak up forest magic all in one go. First we wandered the gentle loop of Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail and marveled at towering redwoods with minimal effort. Then we ventured into lush green wonder with the lush and unforgettable Fern Canyon Trail, and finally climbed into the ancient old-growth cathedral of the Tall Trees Grove Trail (permit in hand) for a soul-stirring finale.
Redwood National Park is one of those rare places on Earth where you feel like you’ve stepped straight into another world. Wandering among the redwoods is like walking through a real life fairy tale. Be prepared to feel awed and very, very tiny!
Redwood was our second stop on a three-park road trip. We arrived on the south end, since we were coming from Lassen Volcanic National Park (check out that guide, here!) We spent two days exploring and it was the ideal amount of time for us.
Something I didn't fully grasp until we had a park map in hand - Redwoods is actually a series of National and State Park areas so this trail-tested guide covers a bit of both.
Tall Trees Trail Hike
This hike is the crown jewel of Redwood National Park—and my absolute favorite!
Planning ahead: You’ll need to secure a free permit from the NPS website before you go. (You can get that, here) They only release 50 per day, so plan early! Once you’re in, you’ll get an email with the gate code.
The drive: Six miles down a dusty, bumpy road—part of the adventure. Most folks say it takes about an hour, but we made it through in just over 30 minutes.
The trail: 4.5 miles total, dropping 600 feet into a quiet, cathedral-like grove where giant redwoods tower around you.
At the bottom, a loop trail winds through some of the most jaw-dropping trees and lush fern forests you’ll ever see.
Pro tip: When people say “pictures don’t do it justice,” this is exactly what they mean. It’s like stepping into a misty, enchanted fairy tale.
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous—downhill to the grove is a breeze, but the climb back up? That's a real butt-kicker.
Fern Canyon Trail
This trail is a close second for my favorite Redwood hikes! It’s actually in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and, yep—you’ll need a permit and a bit of an adventure to get there. (Notice a pattern?)
The drive: About 30 minutes of bumpy, winding dirt road. Pro tip: bring an SUV if you want to skip the worry. You’ll cross three water spots on the way—low when we went, but sedans definitely struggled.
The trail: Short and sweet—just half a mile—but absolutely unforgettable. Think lush canyon walls dripping with ferns, hiking along and sometimes through a stream. When we were there, wooden boards kept our feet dry, but plenty of folks say you’ll gotta get wet, so pack accordingly!
Movie nerd alert: This canyon was a filming spot for The Lost World: Jurassic Park. It feels totally different from Tall Trees Trail, making these two hikes a perfect combo for Redwood variety.
Loop or out-and-back? The trail loops, but honestly, I’d skip the loop and just go out and back to hang out longer in the canyon.
My only gripe? It’s too short… every step is stunning, and I wanted more!
Grove of Titans
Saving a true showstopper for last—the Grove of Titans is where you’ll stand among some of the mightiest, most ancient giants in the entire park.
This hike is also located in a state park - this time in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
Trail length: 1.7 miles roundtrip with just 147 feet of elevation gain, making it a short but deeply rewarding journey.
Trail type: An easy stroll over soft gravel and elevated metal walkways that gently lift you above the forest floor, protecting the delicate ecosystem while bringing you face-to-face with towering redwoods that feel almost otherworldly.
Accessibility: Smooth and welcoming—a perfect pit stop if you find yourself on the northern edge of Redwood National Park.
Why go? The moment you enter this magical grove, you’re enveloped by grandeur. It’s a rare chance to witness nature’s majestic cathedral up close—an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after the trail ends.
Pro tip: This is a very easy trail, which makes it a very popular stop. Try going early in the morning or later in the evening for a more peaceful experience.
Lady Bird Johnson Trail
I'm going to add the Lady Bird Johnson Trail as an honorable mention. It's a great intro to the redwoods and a very easy walk through the giants.
Trail length: 1.5 miles, a relaxed walk perfect for warming up to the redwood forests.
Trail type: Flat and gentle, winding through a quiet grove that offers a soft, calming introduction to the redwood forest.
Why go? This trail has a quiet beauty that lets you soak in the peaceful hush of the forest and get your first glimpse of these towering wonders.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for soft, golden light filtering through the trees and a peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
Skip it if: You’re short on time and already planning to explore the Tall Trees Trail or Grove of Titans—the real magic lies ahead on those trails!
