Redwood National and State Parks is a collection of state and national parks located on the northern California coast. The parks cover more than 130,000 acres of land and are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, including the famous coast redwoods. In this article, we will provide an overview of Redwood National and State Parks and share some tips for visitors who are planning a trip to this unique and awe-inspiring destination.
Location and History of Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks are located in northern California, along the Pacific Ocean coastline. The parks are comprised of four separate areas: Redwood National Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park. The parks were established in the 1960s and 1970s in order to protect the remaining stands of old-growth coast redwoods, which were rapidly disappearing due to logging and development.
The Landscape of Redwood National and State Parks
The landscape of Redwood National and State Parks is dominated by the towering coast redwoods, which can grow up to 379 feet tall and are some of the tallest trees on Earth. The parks are also home to a diverse array of other plant species, including ferns, wildflowers, and mosses, as well as a variety of wildlife, such as Roosevelt elk, black bears, and gray whales.
Visiting Redwood National and State Parks
There are many ways to experience the beauty and wonder of Redwood National and State Parks. Some of the most popular activities include hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The parks contain over 200 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy, family-friendly trails to more strenuous backcountry routes. Some of the most popular hikes in the parks include the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, which offers stunning views of the coast redwoods, and the Fern Canyon Trail, which passes through a beautiful canyon filled with ferns and other lush vegetation.
Camping is also a popular activity in Redwood National and State Parks, with several campgrounds located throughout the parks. Some of the most popular campgrounds include Elk Prairie Campground, Jedediah Smith Campground, and Gold Bluffs Beach Campground. Backcountry camping is also allowed in designated areas with a permit.
In addition to hiking and camping, visitors to Redwood National and State Parks can also enjoy a variety of other activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The parks are home to a variety of wildlife species, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, and bald eagles, and there are many opportunities for wildlife viewing throughout the parks.
One of the unique features of Redwood National and State Parks is the opportunity to experience the parks by car. The parks contain several scenic drives, including the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, which winds through old-growth redwoods and offers stunning views of the park’s diverse landscape.
Visitors to Redwood National and State Parks should also take the time to learn about the parks’ cultural history. The parks are home to several Native American tribes, including the Yurok, Tolowa, and Hupa, and visitors can learn about their history and culture by attending cultural events, visiting museums and cultural centers, and participating in guided tours and hikes.
Redwood National and State Parks is a destination that should be on every nature lover’s bucket list. With its towering coast redwoods, diverse array of plant and animal species, and rich cultural history, the parks offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a family looking for a scenic picnic spot, Redwood National and State Parks is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of your visit.
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