Howland Hill Road Crescent City California
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Howland Hill Road Crescent City California

4.6
·491k reviews·Crescent City, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Softer light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Howland Hill Road Crescent City California

Howland Hill Road Crescent City California

Best Time

Spring mornings

Softer light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Howland Hill Road was spectacular, offering an unforgettable experience close to the old towering Redwoods."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Howland Hill Road Drive

Howland Hill Road Drive

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

An unforgettable, mostly unpaved scenic drive through ancient, towering redwoods. Pure magic!

Instagram
Stout Memorial Grove

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.

Instagram
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Near Crescent City, California

Explore one of California's most beautiful redwood forests, offering stunning drives and trails.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Unpaved Path

Howland Hill Road is largely unpaved and can be rough. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially after rain, to navigate the terrain comfortably and safely. Check road conditions before you go, as closures can happen. Instagram

Timing is Everything for Redwoods

Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the towering trees. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photography and fewer crowds. Be aware of potential seasonal road closures. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Softer light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Another MUST hike trail, save for your next trip 📍Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Crescent City, CA ALWAYS check for any closures before you go . . . . #beautifuldestinations #dametraveler #californiatrip #californiatravel #girlstraveler, things to do in California, #visitcalifornia #womenwhohike #idhikethat #hikingadventures #hikerlife #nationalpark #roadtripping #hikecalifornia #travelcreat...
@talktraveltome
65.8K likes • 1.1M views

🚗 4WD Recommended

Howland Hill Road is unpaved; a 4WD vehicle is best for comfort and safety, especially in wet conditions. Instagram

🌲 Check Road Status

Always verify road conditions and potential closures before heading out, especially during certain seasons. TikTok

CRESCENT CITY SCENE 🎬 If the Horn can open portals and The Crown controls its bearer…. Think of the horror it could unleash! #crescentcity #sarahjmaas #brycequinlan #acotar
@lunathionsitgirl
51.8K likes • 602.1K views
California Roads Howland Hill Road #boyscouttreetrail #crescentcity
dusty_kingofcalifornia
6 likes • 164 views

🚶‍♀️ Stout Grove Hike

Don't miss the short, beautiful hike to Stout Memorial Grove for an immersive redwood experience. Instagram

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit late afternoon for stunning light filtering through the giant trees – perfect for photos. Instagram

🧿 🗺 Crescent City, California ⛅️ The way the sun hits the tree line… 📹 The drive on Howland Hill Road in the National Redwood State Park #crescentcity #california #redwoods #trees #trails #outdoors #gooutside #wildlife #boyscouttrail #nature #earthpix #travelguide #digitalnomad #travelgram #wanderingwoo
wanderingwoowoo
20 likes • 356 views

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. Instagram

🌲 Check Road Status

Always verify road conditions and potential closures before heading out, especially during certain seasons. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Stout Grove Hike

Don't miss the short, beautiful hike to Stout Memorial Grove for an immersive redwood experience. Instagram

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit late afternoon for stunning light filtering through the giant trees – perfect for photos. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Majestic ancient redwoods
Scenic unpaved drive
Stunning Stout Grove

What People Dislike

Rough road conditions

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🌲 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. Instagram

For photography, early mornings or late afternoons are ideal. The soft, filtered light through the redwood canopy creates a magical atmosphere. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Absolutely! Cloudy days provide diffused, soft light that can be excellent for redwood photography, reducing harsh shadows and bringing out rich colors. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

🚗 Adventurous Drivers

If you love off-road driving and unique road experiences, Howland Hill Road is for you. The unpaved, winding path through the redwoods offers a thrilling and scenic journey. Ensure you have a vehicle equipped for rough terrain, preferably 4WD, and check road conditions beforehand. Instagram Embrace the bumps and enjoy the unparalleled views of ancient giants. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those seeking immersion in nature, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, accessible via Howland Hill Road, is a paradise. The Stout Memorial Grove trail is a must-do for its stunning beauty and accessibility. Instagram Take your time to explore the forest floor, breathe in the fresh redwood air, and appreciate the sheer scale of these ancient trees. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Howland Hill Road

Howland Hill Road is a legendary, mostly unpaved scenic byway that winds through the heart of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. It's a stark contrast to paved park roads, offering a more rugged and immersive experience. The road's unpaved nature means it can be bumpy and uneven, making a 4WD vehicle highly recommended for comfort and to avoid getting stuck, especially after rain. Instagram Many visitors describe the drive as an adventure in itself, with towering redwoods lining the route, creating a natural tunnel effect. Instagram

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. TikTok 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. Instagram

The Enchantment of Stout Memorial Grove

Nestled along the Smith River, Stout Memorial Grove is a jewel within Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and a highlight for many visiting Howland Hill Road. This grove is renowned for its exceptionally large and ancient redwood trees, creating a truly cathedral-like atmosphere. The main trail is a relatively short, .7-mile loop that is mostly paved and flat, making it accessible for most visitors. Instagram

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. Instagram 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. Instagram

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