Redwoods in California—7 Epic Spots!

California’s redwoods are nothing short of iconic, and there’s no better way to experience their majesty than standing right under their towering canopies.

These redwoods only thrive in specific coastal areas, mostly in Northern California with a smidge in Oregon. So, where should you go to find them? Buckle up, because we’re about to spill the best spots to see redwoods in California!

1. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Think Jurassic Park vibes—minus the dinos! Prairie Creek Redwoods is home to towering trees, open meadows with Roosevelt elk, wild beaches, and lush fern canyons.

With 75 miles of hiking trails, you can explore this redwood heaven to your heart’s content. Fun fact: some scenes from *Jurassic Park* were filmed here!

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Highlights:

• Revelation Trail—A flat, easy trail that takes you past massive redwoods. Perfect for soaking in the views!
• Foothills and Cathedral Trees Trail—This loop takes you through the park’s biggest and oldest redwoods, including the massive “Big Tree.” A must-see.
• Gold Bluffs Beach—A gray-sand beach with massive dunes and driftwood everywhere. A bit hidden, but well worth a visit!
• High Bluff Overlook—If the fog’s cooperating, you’ll get epic ocean views. Perfect for a peaceful picnic!

2. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

Jedediah Smith is as wild as it gets—this redwood sanctuary has no roads in its center, just pure, untouched forest. It’s a magical place to roam.

The trees here are some of the tallest in the world, and the hiking trails will take you deep into this prehistoric wonder.

Highlights:

• Stout Grove—A jaw-dropping spot filled with 300-foot redwoods. Step into another world!
• Grove of Titans—Walk along elevated paths and see some of the largest redwoods, including the Lost Monarch and Screaming Titans. Epic doesn’t even begin to cover it.
• Boy Scout Tree Trail—An unforgettable hike into the forest. Think massive trees, hidden waterfalls, and peaceful streams.
• Howland Hill Road—Take a scenic drive through the redwoods on this narrow, dusty track. Pull over for hikes along the way.

3. Humboldt Redwoods State Park and Avenue of The Giants

Double the size of San Francisco, Humboldt Redwoods is home to the largest remaining area of old-growth redwoods in the world. It’s truly awe-inspiring.

One of the best ways to explore this park is to drive the famous Avenue of Giants, a road that takes you up close to the best of these magnificent trees.

Highlights:

• Avenue of Giants—This scenic drive packs in the highlights. Stop at trailheads and take in the beauty!
• The Rockefeller Loop—A dark, dense grove tucked away from the noise of traffic. Pure magic.
• Founders Tree—This iconic redwood is said to be around 3000 years old and was the inspiration for the Save-the-Redwoods League.

4. Muir Woods National Monument

Just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, Muir Woods is a go-to spot for city dwellers looking for an outdoor escape. It’s packed with towering redwoods and twisted trails that feel straight out of a fairy tale.

Located in Mount Tamalpais State Park, these redwoods reach up to 250 feet tall. Get ready to hike through some truly jaw-dropping landscapes.

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Highlights:

• Main Trail—A classic trail that winds through some of the park’s most impressive old-growth redwoods.
• Mount Tamalpais—If you’re craving more adventure, spend the day hiking the peaks of Mount Tamalpais. You won’t regret it!
• Stinson State Beach—A beautiful sandy escape just a short drive from Muir Woods, perfect for some post-hike relaxation or surfing.
• Canopy View Trail—For a bit more solitude, take this trail to enjoy forest views from above. The climb is worth it!

READ MORE: 5 of The Best Hikes in Muir Woods + Top Tips on How to Get Here

5. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this park is famous for its 40-acre grove of ancient redwoods and a historic train ride through the forest. Hop on board!

Beyond the redwoods, you’ll find fern-filled canyons, grasslands, and sandhills to explore. It’s an all-in-one nature escape!

Highlights:

• Redwood Grove Loop Trail—A popular hike through some of the park’s oldest and tallest trees.
• Cowell Highlights Loop—This trail takes you through the park’s best spots, including a beautiful observation deck and the Cathedral Redwoods.
• Fremont Tree—Step inside this massive tree for a unique experience. Don’t forget your flashlight!
• Roaring Camp Railroad—Hop on a steam train through the forest or up to Bear Mountain. A scenic ride through nature!

READ MORE: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

6. Navarro River Redwoods State Park

Navarro River Redwoods is a redwood-lined corridor along Route 128, perfect for a scenic drive. You’ll feel like you’re cruising through a tunnel of trees!

It’s an underrated gem for a road trip, offering quiet stops to check out towering trees and riverside views.

Highlights:

• Route 128—Driving through Navarro River Redwoods feels like a redwood tunnel above you. Seriously, the best way to experience it!
• Navarro River Redwoods State Park Beach—At the end of the redwood tunnel is this driftwood-filled beach. Take a stroll or just soak in the views.
• Navarro Point Scenic Trail—A bluff hike with stunning views over the Pacific. Keep an eye out for seals!
• Kayak the Navarro River—Take a kayak out on the scenic Navarro River for a peaceful paddle among the trees.

READ MORE: Navarro River Redwoods State Park: Redwoods With ZERO Crowds!

7. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is your southernmost spot to catch the giant redwoods. On the western slopes of the Santa Lucia Mountains, it’s a redwood haven with hiking, waterfalls, beaches, and jaw-dropping views.

With its scenic walks, biking trails, and even purple-sand beaches, there’s plenty to do here.

Highlights:

• Redwood Deck—Take the River Path to this peaceful deck, where towering redwoods block out the sun. A magical spot to soak it all in.
• McWay Falls—This waterfall cascades directly onto the beach below. A short hike, and you’re there!
• Partington Cove Trail—A steep trail down to a hidden cove with tunnels and gorgeous views. Totally worth the climb back up.

RELATED: Things To Do in Big Sur: 16 Best Stops on a Big Sur Drive

Final Thoughts on California’s Redwoods

The California redwoods are an absolute must-see! Whether you’re cruising along the PCH or exploring hidden trails, these trees will leave you speechless.

Want more? Don’t stop here—there are redwoods in Oregon waiting to be explored, too!

*GRAB THE BEST WEST COAST ADVENTURE MAP FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!*

We hope this guide helps you find the most amazing redwood spots in California. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!