California is home to an abundance of forests, with the Redwood National and State Parks housing some of the oldest and largest trees on Earth. But when it comes to the 10 parks which would you visit? Did you know there are over 70 parks in California that protect 2 million acres of redwood forest? Here's the good news - we've done the research for you and have come up with a list of five great places to see these giants of the forest.
Redwood National Park
Located on the coast north of Klamath, this park is home to some of the largest trees in the world. It was established in 1968 and covers 38 miles along Highway 101 between Crescent City and Orick. The visitor center has exhibits about local plants, animals, and history, as well as a gift shop with books on botany, geology, and wildlife. For those who want to get off-trail, there are several trails here ranging from easy walks through meadows to more strenuous hikes through heavily forested areas.
The Avenue of the Giants
This scenic route runs from Weott northward through Humboldt Redwoods State Park toward Fieldbrook, crossing several rivers along its way past old-growth redwoods that tower overhead like skyscrapers. The drive offers plenty of opportunities to stop and get out of the car for a closer look at these magnificent giants, which can reach heights of more than 350 feet. The Avenue of the Giants is also popular with bicyclists, who can rent bikes at Humboldt Redwoods State Park’s visitor center.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is another stunning destination where you can see some of the largest living things on earth! This park has a variety of hikes ranging from easy to difficult, so it’s perfect for all ages and abilities. If you have time, make sure to visit Castle Rock State Park while you’re there!
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is located just off Highway 101 near Crescent City, California. There are miles and miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and more! You can also enjoy educational programs at their visitor center year-round such as guided hikes with naturalists or nighttime hikes with flashlights. The park has many unique plant and animal species that you can see while you’re there!
Castle Crags Wilderness
Castle Crags Wilderness Area is located in Northern California between the towns of Dunsmuir and Mt. Shasta City. This national park encompasses almost 70,000 acres of diverse landscape including over 30 miles of hiking trails and magnificent granite spires known as Castle Crags which resemble the ruins of ancient castles with their jagged peaks and rock formations. The park is home to more than 70 species of mammals including mule deer, black bear and mountain lions as well as birds such as golden eagles, bald eagles, falcons, owls, and woodpeckers.
Conclusion
The redwood trees are an icon of California, and they have been heavily protected since the 1800s. If you want to explore the forest, there are some amazing places, such as Henry Cowell Redwoods Reserve and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park where you can immerse yourself in some of nature's earliest creations. Enjoy your time under the trees, but remember to tread lightly and give respect to these living giants.
Also, Read This: Where Is the Best Place to See the Giant Redwoods?