Giants Redwoods State Park, part of the awe-inspiring redwood belt in Northern California, offers visitors an incredible opportunity to experience some of the largest and oldest trees on Earth. Situated in Humboldt County, the park is home to majestic redwood groves, scenic drives, tranquil rivers, and picturesque trails that showcase nature at its finest. With ancient trees towering over 300 feet, diverse wildlife, and serene landscapes, the park beckons travelers and outdoor enthusiasts to slow down and immerse themselves in the beauty of these giants. This article highlights the top six must-see sights in Giants Redwoods State Park.
Avenue of the Giants
The Avenue of the Giants is a 31-mile scenic drive that runs parallel to Highway 101, providing a breathtaking journey through some of the most impressive redwood groves in the world. This iconic drive offers several pullouts where travelers can park and venture deeper into the forest. Whether traveling by car, bike, or foot, the Avenue of the Giants guarantees a unique and memorable experience. Along the drive, stop to marvel at groves of ancient trees, explore short trails, and enjoy picnic areas with towering redwoods as your backdrop.
Some of the highlights along this route include Founders’ Grove and the renowned Dyerville Giant, a fallen tree that once stood at an incredible 362 feet. The Avenue of the Giants is not only a picturesque drive but also a gateway to several popular trails and attractions within the park.
Founders Grove Nature Trail
A short walk from the Avenue of the Giants leads to Founders Grove, one of the most iconic spots in the park. This easy, self-guided 0.5-mile loop trail offers a peaceful journey through a grove of ancient redwoods, including the towering Founders Tree, which stands over 340 feet tall. The trail provides an intimate experience with the forest, with interpretive signs along the way sharing the history and ecology of the redwoods.
Founders Grove is an ideal stop for families, casual hikers, and anyone looking to connect with the park’s natural beauty without venturing too far off the beaten path. The towering trees here provide ample shade, and the tranquil setting invites visitors to take in the sights and sounds of the forest.
Rockefeller Forest
For those looking to explore more remote and ancient sections of the park, Rockefeller Forest offers a true immersion into the largest contiguous old-growth redwood forest in the world. This area features some of the tallest trees on the planet and is accessible through several hiking trails, including the Bull Creek Trail South. The trails in Rockefeller Forest take hikers deeper into the heart of the redwoods, where the towering trees block out the sky and create an otherworldly atmosphere.
The dense canopy of trees, moss-covered trunks, and the quiet serenity of the forest make this a must-see destination for hikers and nature lovers. Despite its size, Rockefeller Forest feels secluded, offering a more intimate encounter with these ancient giants.
Shrine Drive-Thru Tree
One of the park’s most popular attractions, the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree, gives visitors the chance to drive through the base of a living redwood. This quirky roadside stop is both fascinating and fun, especially for families. The tree itself has been hollowed out, and small cars can fit through its base, providing a unique perspective of the tree’s immense size.
In addition to the drive-thru experience, there’s a nearby area where visitors can walk around other massive redwoods and explore the small playground made from tree stumps. Though the attraction is small, it offers a memorable experience and is a great photo opportunity.
Eel River
The Eel River winds its way through the heart of Giants Redwoods State Park, offering ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The clear, cool waters of the river are perfect for swimming, canoeing, and fishing, especially during the warm summer months. Along the riverbanks, picnic areas invite visitors to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the forest.
In addition to water activities, the river provides an excellent habitat for wildlife, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. In the fall and winter, anglers can try their luck at catching salmon and steelhead trout during the catch-and-release fishing season. Whether exploring the river by boat or sitting by its shores, the Eel River offers a peaceful retreat in the midst of the towering redwoods.
Burlington Campground
For those wishing to stay overnight in the heart of the redwoods, Burlington Campground offers a chance to camp beneath the towering trees. Located near the visitor center and the South Fork of the Eel River, this campground provides a variety of sites suitable for tents, trailers, and small RVs. Surrounded by second-growth redwoods, campers can wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy the serenity that comes with staying in such a remarkable setting.
The campground also serves as an excellent base for exploring the park’s numerous hiking trails and attractions. Campers can easily access the Avenue of the Giants and other nearby destinations from this central location.
Exploring Giants Redwoods State Park
With over 100 miles of hiking trails, Giants Redwoods State Park offers something for every type of adventurer. Trails such as the Gould Grove Nature Trail and the Addie Johnson Trail provide more accessible options for casual hikers, while longer and more challenging trails like the Grasshopper Peak Trail reward experienced hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Seasonal ranger-led programs and interpretive exhibits at the visitor center offer additional opportunities to learn about the park’s history, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Whether visiting for a day or camping overnight, Giants Redwoods State Park is a destination that offers both adventure and tranquility.
Final Thoughts
Giants Redwoods State Park is one of California’s most treasured natural wonders, offering visitors the chance to experience the majesty of the world’s tallest trees. From scenic drives along the Avenue of the Giants to peaceful hikes through ancient groves, this park provides a wide range of outdoor activities and breathtaking sights. Whether seeking a quiet moment by the Eel River or exploring the remote trails of Rockefeller Forest, Giants Redwoods State Park invites you to step into a world of awe-inspiring beauty and natural grandeur.
