Walking Among Giants: Redwood National Park

There’s something humbling about standing beneath a tree that’s been alive for over a thousand years. In May, we packed up the car and headed north to Redwood National and State Parks — a place where time slows down, the air smells like moss and salt, and everything feels just a little bit magical.

Emerald Forest Campground, Trinidad, CA

Our home for the trip was the Emerald Forest Campground in Trinidad, California — tucked under towering redwoods and just a short drive from the park’s main entrances. The campground was beautiful, peaceful, shaded, and perfectly located. Mornings meant coffee under the trees, the sunlight filtering through like golden mist. Evenings were filled with campfires, laughter, and smores. The campground was very clean, had hot coin operated showers and clean private bathrooms, recycling, and a mini arcade. A big plus is that this campground is only a mile or so from Trinidad State Beach which was a beautiful beach that we ended up having all to ourselves.

Lady Bird Johnson Grove: A Walk Through History

We started our adventures at the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, one of the most iconic walks in the park. The trail winds through ancient redwoods that seem to touch the clouds. The air here feels almost sacred — quiet, still, and perfumed with earth. Interpretive signs along the loop share the story of Lady Bird Johnson’s conservation legacy, reminding us how much effort it took to protect these forests. This trail is a short 1.5 mile walk along relatively flat land making it suitable for families of all kinds.

Fern Canyon: Walking Through a Prehistoric World

Next up was Fern Canyon, tucked in the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. The road to get there is a bit bumpy, but it’s worth every jolt. Researching online you'll read about several creek crossings to get here. Of course it depends on the season, but when we visited the creeks were very shallow and we were able to drive through in our sedan, seeing lots of other small cars there as well.  Advice is to check the water levels before you cross and don't attempt to cross if it seems too deep. Other word of advice is that this hike does require a permit and the permits are limited; please check the Redwood National Park website for permit information. The canyon walls rise 50 feet high, carpeted in ferns and dripping with mist — it’s no surprise they filmed parts of Jurassic Park 2 here. We walked through shallow streams, hopping from rock to rock, feeling like we’d stepped back in time. Fern Canyon also opens up into Gold Bluffs Beach with lots of picnic tables making it a great spot to stop for lunch and if you're lucky you could spot some Roosevelt elk!

Tip: Bring waterproof shoes (or just embrace wet feet). The stream crossings are part of the fun!

Trillium Falls: The Hidden Gem

While everyone flocks to the bigger groves, Trillium Falls Trail felt like a secret. The loop is only about 2.8 miles, winding through lush forest before arriving at a small but beautiful waterfall framed by ferns. We had the trail almost to ourselves, except for a curious banana slug or two. 

Fly Fishing on the Smith River

For a change of pace, we headed north to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park for a day of fly fishing on the Smith River. It’s one of California’s cleanest rivers — crystal clear, cold, and full of life. Casting a line beneath ancient trees, with sunlight glinting off the water, was as peaceful as it gets. Even if you don’t catch anything, just being there feels like a gift. Keep an eye out for snakes, as we did see a few.

Reflections Among the Redwoods

By the time we packed up camp, we felt recharged in that way only nature can deliver. The redwoods have a way of putting things in perspective — reminding you how small you are, and how beautiful that can be. If you're driving up from the Southern California the drive was beautiful and included many cute stops along the way including the Avenue of Giants, a beautiful 31 mile drive through redwood forest, and the Trees of Mystery, which provides you a different way to experience the redwoods with suspension bridges, canopy trails, and a gondola ride. Being in the heart of Bigfoot country, there's also Bigfoots galore!

If you’re planning a trip to Redwood National Park, go slow, look up often, and breathe it all in. The forest has stories to tell — all you have to do is listen.

Travel Tips & Essentials

🗓 Best Time to Visit:
Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant greenery. May was perfect — waterfalls were flowing, and mornings were misty and chilly so make sure to pack warm.

🏕 Where to Stay:

• Emerald Forest Campground (Trinidad, CA): Great mix of nature and comfort — close to the coast, with hot showers and friendly hosts.
• For a more rustic experience, try Elk Prairie Campground inside Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

🥾 Can’t-Miss Hikes:

• Lady Bird Johnson Grove: Easy, inspiring loop with interpretive signs.
• Fern Canyon: Short but spectacular — check if a day-use permit is required before driving in.
• Trillium Falls Trail: Peaceful, moderate hike through dense forest.

🎣 Activities Beyond Hiking:

• Fly fishing on the Smith River or surf fishing near Trinidad.
• Wildlife watching: Roosevelt elk, banana slugs, and countless birds.
• Beach time: Gold Bluffs Beach and Trinidad State Beach are both gorgeous and uncrowded.

🌲 Know Before You Go:

• Download offline maps — cell service is spotty.
• Pack layers; mornings can be chilly, foggy, and afternoons sunny. 
• Respect the ecosystem — stay on trails and never climb redwoods or disturb wildlife.
• Some areas (like Fern Canyon) may require free permits during peak months — check the National Park Service website before your trip.

☕ Local Favorites:

• Trinidad Coffee Co. for your morning brew.
• The Lighthouse Grill for burgers and shakes after a long hike.