
Howland Hill Road Crescent City California
Drive through a tunnel of ancient giants on the unpaved Howland Hill Road, a magical journey in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds

Howland Hill Road Crescent City California
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive through a tunnel of ancient giants on the unpaved Howland Hill Road, a magical journey in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.
"Howland Hill Road was spectacular, offering an unforgettable experience close to the old towering Redwoods."

🚗 4WD Recommended
Howland Hill Road is unpaved; a 4WD vehicle is best for comfort and safety, especially in wet conditions.
🌲 Check Road Status
Always verify road conditions and potential closures before heading out, especially during certain seasons.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Howland Hill Road Drive
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
An unforgettable, mostly unpaved scenic drive through ancient, towering redwoods. Pure magic!

Stout Memorial Grove
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
A short, enchanting hike through a cathedral of giant trees, with an option to reach the Smith River.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Near Crescent City, California
Explore one of California's most beautiful redwood forests, offering stunning drives and trails.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unpaved Path
Timing is Everything for Redwoods
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4WD Recommended
Howland Hill Road is unpaved; a 4WD vehicle is best for comfort and safety, especially in wet conditions.
🌲 Check Road Status
Always verify road conditions and potential closures before heading out, especially during certain seasons.
🚶♀️ Stout Grove Hike
Don't miss the short, beautiful hike to Stout Memorial Grove for an immersive redwood experience.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning light filtering through the giant trees – perfect for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4WD Recommended
Howland Hill Road is unpaved; a 4WD vehicle is best for comfort and safety, especially in wet conditions.
🌲 Check Road Status
Always verify road conditions and potential closures before heading out, especially during certain seasons.
🚶♀️ Stout Grove Hike
Don't miss the short, beautiful hike to Stout Memorial Grove for an immersive redwood experience.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning light filtering through the giant trees – perfect for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty and immersive experience of Howland Hill Road and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. The towering ancient trees and the scenic, albeit unpaved, drive are consistently highlighted as unforgettable. Some caution is advised regarding vehicle suitability and road conditions.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Howland Hill Road is located about 30 minutes east of Crescent City, California, within Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. It's a scenic drive that leads you deep into the heart of the redwoods.
A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended for Howland Hill Road as it is largely unpaved and can be rough. While some visitors have managed with other vehicles, a 4WD offers a more comfortable and safer experience, especially if it has rained recently.
Howland Hill Road is a narrow, winding road. It's best to use GPS or a reliable map app, but be prepared for the unpaved sections. The road is known for its stunning redwood scenery throughout.
While generally accessible, it's crucial to check for any seasonal closures or road condition updates before your visit, especially during winter or after heavy rainfall.
Yes, Howland Hill Road is a drive-through road, offering a continuous scenic experience. However, be mindful of its unpaved nature and potential for slow travel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Howland Hill Road is located within Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, which is part of the Redwood National and State Parks system. While there isn't a specific entry fee for the road itself, standard park entrance fees may apply depending on how you access the park.
The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific facilities or areas within the park might have different hours, so it's always best to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
The Stout Memorial Grove trail is within Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. While the hike itself is free, you may need to pay an entrance fee for the park.
There is no reservation system for driving Howland Hill Road. It's a public road, and access is on a first-come, first-served basis.
The primary restriction is the road's unpaved nature, making it unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles. It's also a narrow road, so large RVs or trailers might find it challenging.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
The Stout Memorial Grove trail is a must-do, offering a .7-mile loop through magnificent redwoods. There are also opportunities to hike to the Smith River from the grove.
For photography, early mornings or late afternoons are ideal. The soft, filtered light through the redwood canopy creates a magical atmosphere.
Facilities are limited directly on Howland Hill Road. It's advisable to use restrooms at the park entrance or designated picnic areas before venturing onto the road.
You might spot various birds, squirrels, and other small forest creatures. Keep an eye out, but remember to maintain a safe distance and respect their habitat.
While possible, cycling on Howland Hill Road can be challenging due to its unpaved and uneven surface. It's more suited for experienced cyclists comfortable with off-road conditions.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Every turn on Howland Hill Road offers a photo opportunity! Focus on capturing the scale of the redwoods, the light filtering through the canopy, and the textures of the forest floor.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the trees. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions and to ensure sharp images. Experiment with aperture to control depth of field.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to give a sense of scale. Shooting from a low angle can also emphasize the height of the trees.
Absolutely! Cloudy days provide diffused, soft light that can be excellent for redwood photography, reducing harsh shadows and bringing out rich colors.
Look for fallen logs, moss-covered trees, and the way sunlight dapples the forest floor. The winding nature of the road itself can also create compelling leading lines in your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚗 Adventurous Drivers
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Howland Hill Road
This road is a prime example of the old-growth redwood forests that make this region so special. The sheer scale of the trees is awe-inspiring, and the quiet solitude of the drive allows for a deep connection with nature. It's essential to check road conditions before you go, as sections can be closed due to weather or maintenance. Plan to drive slowly and stop frequently to soak in the views and take photos. The drive is not about speed, but about experiencing the majesty of the ancient forest at a more intimate pace.
The Enchantment of Stout Memorial Grove
What makes Stout Memorial Grove particularly special is the ethereal quality of light that filters through the dense canopy. On a clear day, sunbeams pierce the foliage, illuminating the forest floor and highlighting the mosses and ferns. There's an optional offshoot that leads you to the banks of the crystal-clear Smith River, offering a different perspective and a chance to enjoy the riverside scenery. It's a place where you can truly feel the ancient presence of the forest and find a sense of peace and wonder. Many visitors describe it as a magical, must-see spot.


Social
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