A Weekend at Redwood National Park

By Oliver Palopo, SB Redwood City Manager
 

Top things to do

 
Avenue of the Giants

While not technically a part of Redwood National Park, the Avenue of the Giants is on the way and well worth the stop (or drive) to admire being surrounded by some of the tallest trees you’ve ever seen. There are hundreds of mini hikes you can do along the way, and you can even drive a car through one of the trees if you have that one friend who doesn’t like hikes (but then again, why did you bring them??)

• It's a great way to break up the long drive and stretch the legs
• Only ~4 hours from the Bay Area

Fern Canyon

If you’re a Jurassic Park fan, then Fern Canyon is a must see. Fans of the series may recognize this hike as one of the scenes from the franchise, and that’s because it is! Along the way, you’ll find the canyon's walls are lined with thousands of ferns and other water loving plants. Bring your waterproof hiking boots, because this mile long hike follows a cobbled stream with some downed trees that you’ll have to navigate your way through. It’s great if you’re the adventurous type!

• Day use permits required between May 15th-September 15th. Missed out on the permit window, but here on once in a lifetime opportunity? You can still access the Fern Canyon hike without a permit through the 4.5 mile (one way) James Irvine Trail, which extends your total hike by 9 miles.
• Most hikes in the park have very little elevation gain, which makes it great for hikers of any experience level. If you’re looking for short hikes, Stout Grove and Lady Bird Johnson trails offer some of the best scenery in the park

Elk Meadow

If you’re lucky enough to see an elk be sure to snap some photos, but admire them from a distance! It’s very possible to see elk throughout all areas of the park, but your best chance at seeing them unobstructed is over by Elk Meadow, which is right off the main road and a great place to talk to a ranger. There are a good number of hikes that start in this area as well

There’s a ton of other places, hikes and sights to see in Redwood National Park. But if you only have a weekend to spend, then I'd like to think that my suggestions are a great way to experience a lot of what Redwood National Park has to offer. Best of all, this national park is free to visit!
 

Breathtaking Detours

If you like to break up the drive like I do and make a day out of it, stop by Mount Tamalpais State Park for some of the best views of Marin and the San Francisco Bay, then grab coffee/pastries/lunch at Stinson Beach’s Parkside Cafe. You can then choose to get back on 101 for a faster, more direct route, or take the pacific coast highway all the way up through Point Reyes for some incredibly scenic views.

Oliver’s gear list

 
Black diamond trekking poles

Why? Other than the adjustable length, the flip lock is also adjustable and can be tightened/loosened as needed unlike twist lock styles. Plus, the cork handles are naturally moisture wicking and I find them to be more comfortable than rubber handles. Trekking poles are helpful for balance if you find yourself walking across a log in Fern Canyon, plus they double as ski poles in the winter if you throw on the included Black Diamond Powder Basket. You can also buy rubber tips if you plan on using these on hard surfaces like concrete or granite.
 

PrAna Brion Pant

Why? Stretchy, comfy, UPF 50+, DWR finish (water repellent coating), and they’re casual enough to be worn off the trail. They also make them in shorts if it’s a warmer day!…Need we say more?
 

Outdoor Research Echo Hoody

Why? Lightweight, moisture wicking, ultra breathable, UPF 20 and comes with a hood for extra protection from wind and/or sun (comes in a short sleeve, hood-less, and even with graphic designs if that is more your style). Works great as a first layer for skiing as well!
 

Natrapel

Although we were lucky enough to not encounter that many mosquitoes this time, I never go out without packing some Natrapel in my bag. Picaridin is a great alternative to deet. It's odorless and doesn’t leave a greasy feeling on your skin, it also won’t deteriorate your gear like deet can if left unwashed.
 

Comfy hiking boots

Your choice of hiking boots will depend largely on your preference and foot shape, but choose one that you find to be most comfortable. What works for me may not work for you and vice versa. A pair like these Moab 3 Mid GTX is an example of a great versatile option. They come in standard or wide fits for those of you who are like me and have wide feet. They also come in a low top, or mid top option for a little extra protection against water and debris entering your boot.