There is a specific kind of silence that only exists in a redwood forest. It's a heavy, velvet-like quiet, broken only by the drip of Pacific mist or the distant call of a Steller's jay. Visiting Redwood National Park isn't just a sightseeing trip; it's a journey back to a prehistoric era when giants ruled the Earth.

Why is it called "Redwood"?

The name is wonderfully literal. The Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) is famous for its thick, cinnamon-colored bark. This bark is rich in tannins, which give the wood its distinct reddish hue. More than just a pretty color, these tannins act as a natural defense system, making the trees incredibly resistant to fire, insects, and rot—allowing them to live for over 2,000 years.

A Legacy of Survival: The History

The story of the Redwoods is one of near-loss and heroic rescue.

• Ancient Origins: These trees have existed in some form for 240 million years. During the time of the dinosaurs, they covered much of the Northern Hemisphere.


• The Gold Rush Impact: In the mid-1800s, the California Gold Rush brought a demand for lumber. Within just a few decades, 95% of the original old-growth redwood forest was logged.


• Conservation: The Save the Redwoods League was formed in 1918, leading to the creation of three California State Parks. In 1968, the National Park was established, and today, the state and federal parks are managed together as a unique partnership to protect the remaining 5% of the old-growth forest.

What Can You See and Do in the Park?

Redwood National Park is actually a complex of parks along the Northern California coast. Here is how to spend your time:

• Walk Through "Star Wars" History: Visit Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. With its 50-foot walls draped in seven different types of ferns, it was used as a filming location for The Lost World: Jurassic Park.


• Drive Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: If you prefer to explore by car, this 10-mile stretch is a spectacular alternative to Highway 101, cutting directly through the heart of the old-growth forest.


• Hike the Lady Bird Johnson Grove: This easy, 1.5-mile loop is one of the most famous in the park. It's often shrouded in fog, creating a moody, ethereal atmosphere that is perfect for photography.


• Spot the Roosevelt Elk: These are the largest of all elk in North America. You can often find them lounging in Gold Bluffs Beach or Elk Prairie.

Exploring the Surrounding Area

The magic doesn't stop at the park boundaries. The "Redwood Empire" has plenty to offer:

• The Avenue of the Giants: Located south of the park in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, this is arguably the most famous scenic drive in the world, featuring "drive-thru" trees and world-famous groves.


• Trinidad: This tiny, picturesque seaside town offers rugged cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and some of the best clam chowder on the coast.


• Trees of Mystery: Located in Klamath, this classic roadside attraction features a gondola ride (SkyTrail) that takes you through the forest canopy, plus a massive statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox.


• The Victorian Village of Ferndale: A bit further south, this beautifully preserved town looks like a movie set, filled with colorful "Butterfat Palaces" (Victorian homes built by wealthy dairy farmers).

If you plan to hike the popular Tall Trees Grove, remember that you must apply for an online permit at least 24 hours in advance. To protect the delicate ecosystem, the park limits the number of visitors to this specific area each day.