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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 pastimes appropriate for all energy levels, from serene treks 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 strolls 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 journey, 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: Favored 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 paths through the woods.

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 via private outfitters near Orick and different zones.
  • Consider checking GetYourGuide for available adventure activities.

Safety Alert

Always check park conditions and weather forecasts before you go out. Share your itinerary with someone, especially for longer hikes or backcountry trips.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with local customs through workshops, performances, and local projects.

Workshops & Classes

  • Humboldt State University (Arcata) has several 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.
  • Opportunities for language study are not formally reachable by tourists; English is the main language.

Cultural Performances & Events

Traditional Ceremonies

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

Live Performances

Dell'Arte International (Blue Lake) offers unique physical theater. Humboldt State University (Arcata) presents concerts plus live acts. 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, demonstrating regional and contemporary artists.

Music & Festivals

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

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 exclusive retreats or studios in the wider Humboldt County area may offer classes or classes.

Personal Practice

The park itself is a favorite spot for personal meditation in the middle of 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 having live bands. 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

Nightlife with dancing options are mainly in Arcata, catering to the university student population. Old Town Eureka has a number of 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 The Old center 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 hotel chains such as Safeway or Fred Meyer in larger towns for general groceries.

Artisan Crafts & Souvenirs

Local Workshops

Trinidad features small shops with area art and crafts. Old Town Eureka possesses several galleries and boutiques showing local artists.

Historic Craftsmanship

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

Souvenir Ideas

Redwood-items with a theme (carvings, jewelry, books, apparel), artisan pottery, local food products (jams, honey, roasted coffee). The National Park Store offers recognized 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 your home country's import rules regarding plants, wood products, or food items.
  • Declare all items if necessary.

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 small businesses and galleries for one-of-a-kind goods.
  • Your purchases directly support the local economy and community.
  • Inquire about the origin of items to ensure authenticity and ethical sourcing.

Local Information

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

Activity Planning Summary

Recommended Activities

  • Explore scenic hiking trails for every ability level.
  • Enjoy water sports on the Smith River or coastal lagoons.
  • Seek out unique photo opportunities in the forests plus along the coast.
  • Discover local crafts plus fresh market goods at farmers' markets.

Practical Considerations

  • Check seasonal availability of activities like fishing and varying with the season markets.
  • Be prepared for seaside 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.