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Things to Do in Redwood National Park

Things to Do in Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park California, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Immerse yourself in the natural grandeur with activities suited for all energy levels, from serene hikes to exciting water sports.

Hiking & Trekking

Easy Trails

Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail (1.5 miles loop), Stout Grove Trail (0.5-mile loop), various short interpretive walks on Newton B. Drury Parkway.

Moderate Trails

James Irvine Trail to Fern Canyon (4.5 miles one-way, stream crossings), Tall Trees Grove Trail (3.4 miles loop, strenuous descent/ascent, requires permit), Cathedral Trees Trail (1.5 miles loop).

Strenuous Trails

Damnation Creek Trail (3.5 miles round trip, steep descent to ocean), Miners' Ridge Trail (part of longer backcountry routes), Redwood Creek Trail (can be very long for backpacking).

Water Sports & Activities

  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Popular on calm, clear waters of Smith River (Middle Fork, South Fork) and coastal lagoons (Freshwater, Stone, Big Lagoons). Rentals available in Crescent City or Arcata.
  • Rafting: Guided trips available on Klamath and Smith Rivers, from calm floats to whitewater sections.
  • Fishing: Salmon and steelhead fishing is seasonal and requires a California fishing license, mainly on the Klamath and Smith Rivers.
  • Swimming: Smith River is popular for swimming in summer. Ocean swimming is usually very cold and dangerous due to rip currents.

Cycling & Biking

  • Paved cycling: Newton B. Drury Parkway, Humboldt Bay Trail (near Eureka/Arcata).
  • Gravel/Dirt: Howland Hill Road (Jedediah Smith), Lost Man Creek Trail (Prairie Creek).
  • Mountain biking: Limited within park boundaries; some opportunities in surrounding national forests.
  • Rentals available in Arcata or Crescent City.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Roosevelt Elk: Best at Elk Meadow (Prairie Creek), also along Hwy 101 and Gold Bluffs Beach. Maintain safe distance.
  • Birdlife: Diverse species, especially along coast and in wetlands; bring binoculars.
  • Marine Wildlife: Whales and sea lions along the coast from overlooks like Klamath River Overlook.
  • Forest Mammals: Smaller mammals and deer on forest trails.

Adventure Sports

  • Zip-lining: Available at private adventure parks outside the immediate park area (e.g., near Klamath or Southern Humboldt).
  • Horseback Tours: Guided tours through the redwoods offered by private outfitters near Orick and other areas.
  • Consider checking GetYourGuide for available adventure activities.

Safety Alert

Always check park conditions and weather forecasts before heading out. Inform someone of your itinerary, especially for longer hikes or backcountry trips.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with the local culture through workshops, performances, and community initiatives.

Workshops & Classes

  • Humboldt State University (Arcata) offers various public workshops and lectures.
  • Small craft shops in Trinidad and Ferndale may offer occasional workshops by local artisans.
  • Look for opportunities related to local art, craft, or traditional skills.
  • Language learning opportunities are not formally available for tourists; English is the main language.

Cultural Performances & Events

Traditional Ceremonies

Check with local tribal cultural centers (Yurok, Tolowa) for public events or educational programs, often around traditional holidays. Respectful participation is advised.

Live Performances

Dell'Arte International (Blue Lake) offers unique physical theater. Humboldt State University (Arcata) hosts concerts and performances. Redwood Curtain Theatre is in Eureka.

Community Initiatives

Support local businesses and purchase authentic crafts to engage with community-based tourism initiatives.

Art Galleries

Explore local art scenes in Old Town Eureka and Arcata, showing regional and contemporary artists.

Music & Festivals

Check local tourism boards (Humboldt County, Del Norte County) for seasonal festivals, fairs, and community events.

Performance Venues

Experience professional theater at Dell'Arte International or various performances at Humboldt State University.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find tranquility and rejuvenation amidst the redwood forests and coastal serenity.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Dedicated spa resorts are limited in the immediate park vicinity.
  • Day spas and massage therapists are available in larger towns like Eureka and Arcata.
  • Search local directories in those cities for specific services.
  • No natural hot springs are directly in or very near Redwood National Park.

Yoga & Meditation

Retreats & Studios

Some private retreats or studios in the wider Humboldt County area may offer classes or workshops.

Personal Practice

The park itself is a popular spot for personal meditation among the peaceful groves, offering a natural sanctuary for reflection.

Traditional Healing

Information on traditional healing practices is not publicly provided for tourist engagement.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music

Arcata has numerous bars and pubs with live music. Eureka also has venues in Old Town. Smaller towns have very limited options.

Theater & Performance

Dell'Arte International (Blue Lake) is a professional theater. Humboldt State University (Arcata) offers theater and music. Redwood Curtain Theatre is in Eureka.

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightclubs and dancing options are mainly in Arcata, catering to the university student population. Old Town Eureka has several pubs and breweries.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local crafts, unique souvenirs, and fresh produce at various markets and artisan shops.

Traditional Markets

  • Farmers' Markets: Seasonal options include Arcata Plaza Farmers' Market (Tuesdays/Saturdays) and Old Town Eureka Farmers' Market (Thursdays).
  • Offer local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and prepared foods.
  • Great for experiencing local community vibrancy and finding fresh, regional products.
  • Supermarkets: Major chains like Safeway or Fred Meyer in larger towns for general groceries.

Artisan Crafts & Souvenirs

Local Workshops

Trinidad features small shops with local art and crafts. Old Town Eureka has various galleries and boutiques demonstrating local artists.

Historic Craftsmanship

Blue Ox Millworks & Historic Park in Eureka demonstrates and sells traditional crafts, providing an unique shopping experience.

Souvenir Ideas

Redwood-themed items (carvings, jewelry, books, apparel), artisan pottery, local food products (jams, honey, roasted coffee). The National Park Store offers official park merchandise.

Luxury & Boutique

These options are limited but can be found mostly in Eureka's Old Town or Trinidad's small, upscale boutiques.

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans and businesses. Be aware of products made from illegally harvested redwood; always buy from reputable sources.

Shipping & Customs

  • Standard U.S. Domestic shipping rates apply.
  • For international shipping, use USPS, FedEx, or UPS offices in larger towns.
  • Be aware of customs regulations for your home country regarding plants, wood products, or food items.
  • Declare all items if required.

Helpful Shopping Information

Park Stores
  • National Park Store locations are available at visitor centers.
  • Offer official park merchandise, educational materials, and books.
  • Sales contribute to park conservation efforts.
Supporting Local
  • Seek out independent shops and galleries for unique items.
  • Your purchases directly support the local economy and community.
  • Inquire about the origin of products to ensure authenticity and ethical sourcing.

Local Information

For current market schedules or specific shop details, consult local tourism websites or inquire at visitor centers.

Activity Planning Summary

Recommended Activities

  • Explore scenic hiking trails for all skill levels.
  • Enjoy water sports on the Smith River or coastal lagoons.
  • Seek out unique photo opportunities in the forests and along the coast.
  • Discover local crafts and fresh produce at farmers' markets.

Practical Considerations

  • Check seasonal availability for activities like fishing and seasonal markets.
  • Be prepared for coastal weather variations; layers are advisable.
  • Utilize visitor centers and park websites for up-to-date conditions and permits.
  • Cell service can be spotty in park areas, download maps and information offline.