The Four Best Hikes In Redwood National Park

Take a hike! No, seriously, when planning a visit to  Redwood National Park, adding a trek through this magnificent forest is a must-do. There is nothing like a first-hand encounter with these towering trees with enormous trunks and stunning greenery.

But with so many trails and acres, it’s important to focus on the best that Redwood National Park has to offer.

For this reason, we’ve compiled the four best hikes in Redwood National Park. There is a trail suitable for every age and ability. So come on, let’s go hiking!

Tall Trees Grove Loop Trail

This trail offers exceptional views of the redwoods and is popular with joggers and hikers. Plan on the 3.6-mile hike taking about 1 hr 52 min to complete and is best explored from March through October.

The trailhead is near Orick, California, and the loop offers lush ferns and groves of the massive redwoods. Hikers rank it as moderately challenging, and dogs are not allowed.

James Irvine Trail

Located in Orick, California, the James Irvine Trail is a 10.3 out-and-back trail that leads to the Fern Canyon entrance.

With an elevation gain of 1,400 feet, it is a challenging hike but worth the effort to see the valley of ferns and redwoods. The area is rich with various birds, so bring binoculars and keep a sharp eye out.

The path passes through creeks and wetlands, requiring sturdy, waterproof, or water-resistant boots. Hikers advise starting early in the day and packing snacks and water.

Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

If you need a shorter, less challenging hike, consider the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail. It is one of the four best hikes in Redwood National Park because it appeals to families, the elderly, and those with limited time.

This 1.4-mile loop trail near Orick takes about 35 minutes to complete. The path and bridge are suitable for strollers and joggers, but the bridge isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Because of its popularity, you’ll encounter more people than on some more challenging trails. But don’t let the short distance lure you into thinking the trail lacks wonder. Hikers will hike through a mixed forest of old-growth redwoods and conifers. It is open year-round, and like the other trails in Redwood National Park, dogs are not allowed.

Damnation Creek Trail

With an enticing name, this challenging hike offers the best of the forest and the California coast.
The trailhead is near Crescent City, California, and it is a 3.9-mile out-and-back path to the Pacific Ocean.

Hikers rank the trek as challenging due to the rugged terrain and elevation gain of 1,190 feet.
This adventure is accessible year-round and will take 2 hr. 22 min. to complete.

You’ll hike through redwoods and dense spruce trees and eventually the coastline. Here, visitors can spot sea stacks popping up out of the ocean as waves roll along the beach. Like our previous best hikes in Redwood National Park, dogs are not allowed.

Experience The Magic of Redwood Hikes

As promised, our four best hikes in Redwood National Park will suit any age or ability. Whether hiking for the first time or a seasoned trekker seeking new paths, these trails offer an immersive redwood experience. 

While each hike is unique, they all offer redwoods, stunning wildlife, and picturesque views, making for a memorable Redwood Coast vacation. 

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Updated 2025