How to Hike the Redwoods: Trails, Tips, Gear & Photo Advice
Whether you want a short, accessible stroll or a multi-mile backcountry route, redwood hikes deliver dramatic scale, lush understory, and plenty of photo ops. Here’s how to get the most from the experience.
Why redwood forests feel different
Coastal redwoods create a microclimate: cool, damp air hangs low, ferns and moss carpet the ground, and the forest absorbs sound so steps feel hushed. Fog and “fog drip” keep the forests green year-round, so trails can be damp even on sunny days. Expect rich biodiversity — from banana slugs and salamanders to songbirds and owls — and a sense of deep time that makes crowded moments feel smaller.
Top trail types and picks
– Easy, accessible walks: Look for paved or boardwalk loops near visitor centers that give massive tree views with minimal elevation. These are ideal for families and photographers who favor stable ground.
– Classic day hikes: Old-growth groves, fern-lined creeks, and redwood cathedrals appear on many 2–6 mile routes. Popular areas include well-known coastal parks and state reserves that house some of the tallest trees accessible by short hikes.
– Backcountry treks: For solitude, longer routes move from coastal bluffs into fog-draped valleys and high ridgelines.
Bring navigation tools and plan for limited cell coverage.
Practical planning tips
– Check reservations and permits: Many popular groves use timed-entry reservations, parking passes, or shuttle systems to manage crowds. Confirm requirements on park websites before you go.
– Time your visit: Mornings and late afternoons tend to offer softer light for photography and fewer visitors.
Coastal fog can make midday light magical but bring a rain shell for visibility changes.
– Parking and access: Some trailheads have limited parking or require shuttle access. Arrive early or book transit options where available.
– Trail conditions: Trails can be rooty, muddy, and slippery. Good traction footwear and awareness of footing are essential.
What to pack
– Layered clothing and a lightweight waterproof jacket — humidity and fog can make temperatures feel cooler.
– Sturdy shoes with good tread; trekking poles help on steep or wet sections.
– Water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit. Even short hikes benefit from hydration.
– A wide-angle lens or phone with panorama mode, and a small tripod for low-light shots.
Leave No Trace and wildlife etiquette
Redwood forests are fragile. Stick to trails, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Close encounters are rare but possible — keep distance from mammals and never feed wildlife.
Fallen logs and nurse trees are ecological treasures; admire them without walking on them.
Photography tips
Show scale by including a person or a familiar object in frame. Early light through fog creates mood; for tall trunks, try a vertical panorama or shoot with a wide aperture to isolate foreground ferns against towering trunks.
Bring spare batteries — damp and cool conditions drain power faster.
Accessibility and safety
Many parks offer accessible trails and boardwalks; check park accessibility pages for details and facilities. Cell service can be spotty — download maps offline and let someone know your route. Be mindful of changing weather, especially on coastal trails where conditions shift quickly.
A redwood hike can be meditative, adventurous, or simply joyful. With a bit of preparation and respect for these ancient forests, you’ll leave with stronger lungs, quieter thoughts, and memorable images of giants beneath the canopy.