Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Step into a world of giants at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. Explore ancient groves and scenic drive...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and find peace
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds and find peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a world of giants at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. Explore ancient groves and scenic drives.
"It is impossible to explain how amazing these old growth redwoods are to someone who hasn't seen them."
🚗 Drive Howland Hill Road
Experience the redwoods up close on this iconic, narrow dirt road. Go early to avoid traffic! :car:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails are well-maintained, but some can be uneven. Be prepared for walking and exploring! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grove of the Titans Trail
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Walk among some of the world's tallest and most ancient redwood trees. An awe-inspiring experience that photos can't capture .
Stout Memorial Grove Trail
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
A short, accessible loop through a cathedral of colossal redwoods, often featuring a footbridge over the Smith River .
+1
Howland Hill Road
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
An unforgettable scenic drive winding directly through the heart of the ancient redwood forest. Feels like stepping back in time .
Boy Scout Tree Trail
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
A moderate 6-mile hike leading to a unique double-trunked redwood and a small waterfall .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Early Bird
Navigate Narrow Roads
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Howland Hill Road
Experience the redwoods up close on this iconic, narrow dirt road. Go early to avoid traffic! :car:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails are well-maintained, but some can be uneven. Be prepared for walking and exploring! :athletic_shoe:
☔ Pack a Poncho
Rain is common here, even a surprise shower. A poncho will keep you dry and comfortable. :umbrella:
📸 Capture the Magic
Look for light rays ('god rays') in the early morning or late afternoon for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Howland Hill Road
Experience the redwoods up close on this iconic, narrow dirt road. Go early to avoid traffic! :car:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails are well-maintained, but some can be uneven. Be prepared for walking and exploring! :athletic_shoe:
☔ Pack a Poncho
Rain is common here, even a surprise shower. A poncho will keep you dry and comfortable. :umbrella:
📸 Capture the Magic
Look for light rays ('god rays') in the early morning or late afternoon for stunning photos. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Check Trail Status
Always verify trail conditions and any potential closures before your visit. :information_desk:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking scale and ancient beauty of the redwoods, with Howland Hill Road being a standout scenic drive. The park offers a serene and immersive experience, though some note that popular trails can become crowded later in the day.
"Absolutely beautiful and a must-see. True wonder of nature! We went and walked on the Grove of Titans trail, which is about two miles total. They ask that you stay on the trail (because your footsteps can damage the forest floor) and there are some raised metal walkways because of this.
Though there’s a lot of roads and trails, it’s still a good idea to be prepared. There are countless areas where there’s no service, roads are dirt and are extremely narrow (but there are turnouts/shoulder areas where you can pass). BRING WATER AND SNACKS! It costs $8 per car if you park within fee areas. The parking lot by the Grove of Titans trailhead was free, and there’s a restroom there as well.
Absolutely amazing. Even within five minutes of our hike, a deer walked across the pathway. Didn’t seem to mind humans. It’s worth a visit! Also, if you get the chance, visit the Smith River — the water looks like glass."
Anonymous
"Absolutely surreal and euphoric! Walking among these ancient redwoods feels like stepping into another world. The towering trees, peaceful trails, and crystal clear Smith River make it a truly magical experience. Far less crowded than other parks; pure bliss."
Sidney young
"Amazing in every way. I recommend doing the Boy Scout Tree trail first. It’s the longest, but well worth it. The trail has tons of roots and hiking boots would be preferable. The Boy Scout tree is easy to miss since it is off the trail. It’s on the right side of the trail before you get to the waterfall."
Siegfried Naumann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is located near Crescent City, California. From San Francisco, it's about a 6.5-hour drive, and from Portland, Oregon, it's around 5.5 hours.
No, Howland Hill Road is a narrow, unpaved dirt road. While it's accessible for most vehicles, drive slowly and be prepared to yield to oncoming traffic, as it's often one lane.
Absolutely! Howland Hill Road offers an incredible drive directly through the towering redwoods, allowing you to experience their grandeur from your car. The park also has other scenic drives and pull-offs.
The park is excellent for those who prefer to see the redwoods by car. Howland Hill Road provides a stunning drive, and there are many pull-over areas to admire the trees and take photos.
Yes, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is one of the three state parks that make up the Redwood National and State Parks complex, managed in partnership with the National Park Service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the park itself is generally free. However, there may be fees for specific activities like camping or if you plan to visit other parts of the Redwood National and State Parks system that have entrance fees. It's always best to check the official California State Parks website for the most current information.
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is typically open year-round from dawn to dusk. However, specific facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers may have different operating hours. Always check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
Generally, there are no entrance fees to drive through and explore the main areas of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Fees typically apply to camping or specific tours if offered.
Yes, camping reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. You can usually book campsites through the California State Parks reservation system. Check their website for details and availability.
Yes, the park has a visitor center that can provide maps, information, and insights from helpful personnel. It's a great place to start your visit and get oriented.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the Grove of the Titans Trail (for massive trees),
Yes, the trails are generally well-maintained and marked, making them easy to navigate. Some trails feature elevated platforms and bridges to protect the delicate forest floor.
You might spot various birds, and hear rustling in the underbrush indicating other small forest creatures. The park's diverse ecosystem supports a range of wildlife.
Absolutely! The park offers incredible photographic opportunities, especially with the dramatic light rays (god rays) that appear in the early morning and late afternoon. The sheer scale of the redwoods is also a photographer's dream.
Yes, the Smith River, known for its clarity and beauty, flows through the park. While it's stunning, be aware that the water is very cold, even in summer.+1
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most dramatic lighting, with 'god rays' filtering through the redwood canopy. These times also coincide with fewer crowds, allowing for more peaceful photography sessions.
The Grove of the Titans and Stout Memorial Grove are iconic for their massive trees.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the immense scale of the redwoods. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the river. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the greens and blues.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check with park management for specific regulations.
Include a person or a familiar object in your shot to provide a sense of scale. Shooting from a low angle can also emphasize the height of the trees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities within the park are limited. The drive on Howland Hill Road can be exciting for kids, but ensure they are secured safely. The sheer size of the trees is often a highlight for children, sparking wonder and imagination. The park's natural beauty provides an excellent opportunity for kids to connect with nature and learn about these incredible trees.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with nearby Crescent City for lunch or explore other coastal attractions. The park's proximity to Highway 101 makes it a convenient addition to any itinerary. Remember to check for any park closures or road conditions before you go, especially if you're on a tight schedule.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
For those seeking the most impressive trees, the Grove of the Titans Trail is essential, though it can get crowded.Beyond the popular trails, the park offers miles of opportunities for forest bathing and immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere. Look for the magical light rays filtering through the canopy, especially during the golden hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of the Ancient Redwoods
feels like stepping into a prehistoric world. The sheer scale is difficult to comprehend from photos alone; you need to be there to feel the immensity and the profound sense of peace they inspire.Many of the trails, like the Grove of the Titans, feature elevated wooden platforms and walkways. These are not only helpful for navigating the sometimes uneven terrain but also crucial for protecting the delicate undergrowth and root systems of these ancient giants. This thoughtful infrastructure allows visitors to get close to the trees without causing damage, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
For an unparalleled driving experience, Howland Hill Road offers a narrow, winding dirt path that takes you directly through the heart of the redwood forest. It’s a slow, immersive journey where the trees loom on either side, creating a tunnel of green. Arriving early is key to experiencing this road with minimal traffic and maximizing the feeling of solitude.
The Serene Smith River
Several trails offer access to the Smith River, including the Stout Memorial Grove Trail, which often features a footbridge connecting to the campground during summer months.
The sound of the river flowing adds another layer to the park's tranquil atmosphere, creating a peaceful soundtrack to your exploration. It’s a perfect place to pause, listen, and appreciate the natural beauty of Northern California.Whether you're enjoying a picnic by its banks or simply admiring its clarity from a trail, the Smith River is an integral part of the Jedediah Smith Redwoods experience. It complements the grandeur of the redwoods, offering a refreshing and picturesque element to the park's diverse landscape.
Filming Location: A Touch of Hollywood
While you won't find Ewoks roaming the trails, imagining the scenes filmed here can add a fun element to your exploration. The Simpson-Reed Trail, an easy 1.7 km loop, is often cited as a good place to experience the kind of scenery that made it onto the big screen.
This cinematic connection makes Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park a destination for more than just nature lovers; it's also a pilgrimage site for Star Wars enthusiasts looking to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters.
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