Planning a trip to see Redwoods near San Francisco is not only Instagram-worthy but soul-nourishing, too! After countless weekends exploring these ancient giants, I’ve got all the insider tips to make your natural getaway unforgettable and revitalizing. First things first: pack your coziest flannel and comfiest hiking boots. We’re about to embark on a journey that’ll have you hugging trees in no time.
The Redwood Lowdown | SF’s OG Skyscrapers 🌲
Imagine this: you’re standing at the base of a tree taller than the Statue of Liberty. Mind. Blown. Right? That’s the redwood experience in a nutshell. These bad boys can grow over 350 feet tall and live for thousands of years. My first redwood encounter left me slack-jawed and starry-eyed. It’s like stepping into a real-life fantasy novel, minus the elves and fairies (although I’m still holding out hope!).
Redwoods aren’t just pretty faces, though. They’re the ultimate eco-warriors. Think…
- Carbon-sequestering champions
- Home to countless critters
- Natural air purifiers
- 1000+-year-old living history books
5 Places Near San Francisco to Spot These Gentle Giants
Ready for your redwood rendezvous? Here are my top picks, all within day-trip distance from San Francisco…
- Muir Woods National Monument
- Big Basin Redwoods State Park
- Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
- Portola Redwoods State Park
Let’s break this list down and start planning, shall we?
Muir Woods National Park
Just a hop, skip, and a jump from SF (okay, a 30-minute drive), Muir Woods is most travelers’ go-to for a quick redwood fix. This means it’s a classic yet sometimes busy choice for first-timers.
Why I’m obsessed with Muir Woods…
- Easy-peasy hiking trails (your non-outdoorsy friends will thank you)
- That sweet, sweet redwood scent (bottled forest, anyone?)
- Cathedral Grove (it’s like nature’s own Notre Dame)
Pro tip: Book your parking spot in advance. Nothing kills a redwood buzz like circling for parking!
Big Basin | Where the Wild Things Are
About 90 minutes south of SF, Big Basin is where you go when you’re ready to level up your redwood game. It’s like Muir Woods’ cooler, slightly wilder cousin. Unfortunately, some of Big Basin’s most popular waterfall trails and campsites have been closed due to wildfire damage, but check back for updates and hours of operation.
Fun fact: Some of the trees in this park were saplings when the Roman Empire was still a thing. Mind = blown. 🤯
Armstrong Redwoods | The Hidden Gem
Two hours north of SF, Armstrong is my go-to when I want to avoid the crowds but still get my redwood fix. It’s like finding a secret speakeasy, but instead of cocktails, you get centuries-old trees.
What makes Armstrong my secret redwood crush…
- The Parson Jones Tree (taller than a 30-story building!)
- Romantic picnic spots
- That peaceful, “I’m-one-with-nature” vibe
Insider tip: Pack a picnic and pretend you’re dining in a prehistoric forest. Because, well, you are!
Henry Cowell | Family Fun Central
About 1.5 hours south of SF, Henry Cowell is perfect for when you want to share the redwood love with the whole fam.
Why Henry Cowell is scrapbook worthy…
- Roaring Camp Railroads (choo-choo through the forest!)
- The Fremont Tree (a hollowed-out tree you can stand inside – hello, perfect family photo op!)
- Summer swimming holes (because who doesn’t love a forest dip?)
Did you know? The Fremont Tree was once a hideout. I like to imagine it was for woodland fairies, but apparently, it was just some explorer dude.
Portola Redwoods | Off-the-Grid Goodness
About an hour south of SF, Portola is where I go when I’m feeling like a redwood hipster. It’s visited less, which means there are more trees for me!
What makes Portola my secret redwood getaway…
- Peters Creek Grove (some of the tallest trees in the forests)
- Pescadero Creek (perfect for a mid-hike splash)
- Camping under the stars (and redwoods, of course)
Pro tip: The drive is twisty-turny, so pop a dramamine if you’re prone to car sickness. The redwoods are so worth it though, I promise!
Your Epic Redwood Weekend Itinerary
Alright, nature lovers, here’s the moment you’ve been waiting for – the ultimate three-day redwood weekend! Buckle up, buttercup!
|
Day |
Morning |
Afternoon |
Evening |
|
Friday |
Drive to Muir Woods |
Hike the beginner trails and bask in the natural wonders. |
Rent a cabin and bond with friends and fam |
|
Saturday |
Early rise for exploring Portola (pack a picnic!) |
Continue hike, cool off with a dip in Pescatola Creek |
Set up camp or check into nearby lodging, stargaze |
|
Sunday |
Morning yoga among the redwoods |
Drive to Henry Cowell, ride the Roaring Camp Railroad |
Dine at Cafe Cruz & head home; already planning your next redwood adventure! |
What to Bring on Your Redwood Expedition Near the Bay Area
Pack your bags, forest friends! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Hiking boots (your feet will thank you)
- Layers (redwood weather is as unpredictable as Bay Area traffic)
- Reusable water bottle
- Digital Camera
- Binoculars
- Snacks (hangry hikers are no fun)
- Your sense of wonder (most important of all!)
Conservation Chat | Keeping the Giant Redwoods Rad
Now, let’s get a little serious for a hot sec. These magnificent trees need our help to stick around for another few thousand years. At my venue near Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Ridgefield in Arcata, we’re all about that redwood love. We recently gifted our land to the city as a conservation easement. Why? Because we want future generations to experience the same awe we feel standing among these giants. :)
Ridgefield isn’t just a venue; it’s a promise to nature. When couples tie the knot in our Redwood Grove, they’re not just saying “I do” to each other, but to protecting these incredible forests too. How’s that for relationship goals?
Here are some tips for staying eco-friendly during your trip to the Redwood National Parks…
- Leave No Trace
- Carry a small trash bag to collect your litter (and maybe pick up any you find along the way)
- Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging delicate ecosystems
- Use Reusables
- Bring a reusable water bottle (bonus points if it’s insulated to keep your drink cool)
- Pack your snacks in reusable containers or beeswax wraps
- Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation
- Consider renting a hybrid or electric vehicle for your trip
- Use shuttle services when available
- Support Local and Sustainable
- Stay at eco-lodges or campgrounds that prioritize sustainability
- Eat at local restaurants that use locally-sourced ingredients
- Respect Wildlife
- Observe animals from a distance – no feeding or approaching
- Educate Yourself and Others
- Read up on the ecology of redwood forests before your trip
- Share your knowledge (and these tips!) with your travel buddies
- Support Conservation Efforts – Put your money where your heart is!
- Donate to organizations like Save the Redwoods League or the Sempervirens Fund
FAQs | Planning Your Redwood Adventure
Q: What’s the weather like in Redwood Country?
A: The coastal redwood forests are often cool and misty, even in summer. Expect temperatures between 40-70°F year-round. Pack layers and prepare for possible drizzle.
Q: Are there good lodging options near the redwoods?
A: You bet! From cozy cabins to luxury resorts, there’s something for every taste and budget. For a unique experience, try “glamping” in a treehouse or yurt surrounded by redwoods.
Q: What are some must-try restaurants in the area?
A: After a day of hiking, you’ll have earned a feast! In Santa Cruz near Henry Cowell, I love Cafe Cruz for farm-to-table goodness. Near Armstrong Redwoods, check out Boon Eat + Drink in Guerneville for more locally-sourced deliciousness. For a sweet treat, check out this 100-year-old french bakery in Healdsburg!
Q: What’s the nearest airport to the redwood parks?
A: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is your best bet for most parks. For Armstrong Redwoods, you might also consider flying into Sonoma County Airport (STS) in Santa Rosa.
Q: Any tips for renting a car?
A: Absolutely! While you can get to Muir Woods via shuttle from the San Francisco Bay Area, a car is essential for exploring the other parks. Rent a compact car for easier navigation on winding roads, but make sure it has enough oomph for hills.
Q: Are the redwoods dog-friendly?
A: It depends on the park. Muir Woods doesn’t allow dogs on trails, but many other parks do. Always check park websites for the most up-to-date pet policies.
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Q: What’s the best time of day to visit the redwoods?
A: Early bird gets the worm! Or in this case, the peaceful forest. Arrive early for the best parking and fewer crowds. Plus, morning mist in the redwoods is pure magic.
Q: Any hidden gems I shouldn’t miss?
A: Look for albino redwoods! These rare, ghostly white trees are parasites that lack chlorophyll. They’re scattered throughout the forests and are a true marvel of nature.
Q: How long should I plan for my redwood trip?
A: If you’re short on time, you can do a day trip to Muir Woods. But to really soak in the redwood magic, I’d recommend at least 3-4 days to explore a couple of different parks.
Q: Are the coast redwoods accessible for people with mobility issues?
A: Many parks have accessible trails and facilities. Muir Woods and Armstrong Redwoods, in particular, have excellent paved trails suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Q: What are some of the most popular redwood hikes in Northern California?
- The Redwoods Loop Trail
- Old Growth Loop
- The Bohemian Grove Trail
- The Peters Creek Loop
- The Slate Creek Trail
- The Pioneer Tree Trail
- The Ridge Trail Loop
- The Ben Johnson Trail
Fall in Love With Natural Wonders
Remember, the redwoods are more than just a destination off Highway 101 – they’re an experience. Take your time, breathe deep, and let the magic of these ancient forests work its wonders on you. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or dreaming of a redwood wedding, remember: every visit, every photo, every moment spent among these trees is a chance to fall in love with nature all over again. See you in the forest, friends! 🌲✌️
