Redwood Coast California, USA Travel Guide
Public transit connects the larger towns and some inter-county routes. The Redwood Transit System (RTS) serves Humboldt County, linking communities like Eureka, Arcata, McKinleyville (including Arcata-Eureka Airport or ACV), Trinidad, and Fortuna. The Redwood Coast Transit (RCT) serves Del Norte County, covering Crescent City and routes towards Oregon and Gasquet.
Public transit generally operates weekdays and Saturdays, with limited or no service on Sundays and holidays. Frequency varies by route, with busier routes running every 30-60 minutes during peak hours. Both RTS and RCT buses are generally wheelchair accessible.
Public transit serves well for travel between towns but does not offer direct access to many remote park areas or trailheads.
Check schedules carefully, especially for weekend or holiday travel, as service is limited during these times.
Combine public transit with walking or a ride-share for reaching park entrances from town.
Major companies: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National/Alamo at ACV. Enterprise also at CEC.
Valid driver's license, major credit card in renter's name. 21 or OLDER (surcharge under 25).
Book your car in advance, especially during peak season, because of restricted inventory.
Very limited rentals, not a common tourist transport mode here.
Driving has the best method for discovering the Redwood Coast, offering flexibility for accessing various park areas and scenic drives.
No hop-on-hop-off services. Private tour operators offer guided bus/van tours of redwood parks, delivering narrated experiences.
No regular boat taxi services. Recreational kayaking, canoeing, and Stand-up paddleboarding popular (Humboldt Bay, Eel, Smith River).
Cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems are not applicable to the Redwood Coast region.
Redwood National and State Parks offer some trails for people with disabilities and facilities. This covers paved accessible paths, like the Newton B. Drury Parkway and Big Tree Wayside, which provide a welcoming experience for everyone visitors. Public transit buses in the region are also accessible, supporting travel for individuals with mobility needs.
A paved multi-use path stretching along Humboldt Bay. Ideal for walking and cycling.
Easy & Scenic
A scenic road within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, offering pullouts and trail access.
Accessible & Iconic
Miles of flat trails, popular for birdwatching and gentle walks near Arcata.
Nature & Observation
The Redwood Coast offers diverse landscapes and towns, each with its own character and transportation considerations.
The most extensive way to experience the vastness of the redwood region.
Ideal for budget-conscious travel between the main settlements and urban areas.
The best way to immerse yourself in the forest trails and charming town centers.
Whether by car, bus, or on foot, selecting the right transportation mode for each part of your Redwood Coast adventure helps maximize your experience.
