Should You Visit Redwood National Park?

Are you thinking about visiting Redwood National Park, California? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.


Is Redwood National Park worth visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting this park for three to five days because of the many great activities. Redwood National Park is located along northern California's coastline and it is filled with impressive trails through old growth redwood forests. The park is adjacent to several state parks, and the area offers one of the best settings for experiencing ancient redwood trees. We first visited in 2009 and have returned several times. During our time here, we fell in love with its iconic and stunning setting.

Redwood National Park, California Redwood National Park, California

Reasons to Visit Redwood National Park

Hiking
Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Beaches
The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.




Is Redwood National Park worth visiting in the Summer?

Summer is the high season for travel in Redwood National Park, so expect more visitors and higher prices. This destination is quite popular with tourists, and in the high season it's even busier than usual as this is when most people like to visit. Expect crowds to be large, and prices to be a bit higher than normal. However, there's plenty to do here this time of year, too.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 14°C (57°F).

The gorgeous scenery this time of year is the main attraction. This is the perfect time to hike around the area and take in the amazing scenery. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to lounge on the beach and get out into nature.


Summer Weather in Redwood National Park
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
July 14°C (57°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
August 14°C (58°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
September 14°C (58°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)

Is Redwood National Park worth visiting in the Autumn?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Redwood National Park. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you can still find plenty of crowds, but better prices.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F).

During this season it's fun to experience the beautiful scenery and the hiking.


Autumn Weather in Redwood National Park
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
October 13°C (55°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
November 11°C (52°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
December 9°C (49°F) 153 mm (6 in)

Is Redwood National Park worth visiting in the Winter?

The weather in Redwood National Park can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 9°C (48°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

The low season for travel in Redwood National Park is during the winter. This destination is quite touristy, but in the low season you'll see fewer crowds and much better prices.

This is a great time of year to .


Winter Weather in Redwood National Park
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
January 9°C (48°F) 152 mm (6 in)
February 10°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
March 10°C (50°F) 135 mm (5.3 in)

Is Redwood National Park worth visiting in the Spring?

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Redwood National Park. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you can still find plenty of crowds, but better prices.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 10°C (50°F).

A visit this time of year should definitely be on your list, as the natural scenery is just breathtaking. Get out into the wilderness to take in the views, admire nature up close, and enjoy the fresh air. You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to admire the wonderful scenery.


Spring Weather in Redwood National Park
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
April 10°C (50°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
June 13°C (56°F) 13 mm (0.5 in)

Things to Consider Before Visiting Redwood National Park

Museums
Redwood National Park isn't a place that's filled with a huge number of sights and attractions. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Food
Redwood National Park doesn't top the list for most foodies. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Nightlife
Most people don't associate Redwood National Park with a lively nightlife scene. The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Shopping
Redwood National Park isn't exactly a shopper's destination. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Redwood National Park might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Redwood National Park here or see if Redwood National Park is expensive here.

Related

What is Redwood National Park most famous for?

Redwood National Park is most famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees. The park is very popular for its hiking. Many people love the beaches, too. It is often described as grand, impressive, and monumental.

What is the most famous sight in Redwood National Park?

The most popular sight in Redwood National Park is Stout Grove. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Redwood National Park on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Stout Grove and other attractions here.

How touristy is Redwood National Park? Is it a popular park to visit?

Redwood National Park is a popular park for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

How long should I spend in Redwood National Park?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Redwood National Park is at least three or as many as five days. Since Redwood National Park has a variety of activities such as hiking, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Redwood National Park?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Redwood National Park?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Redwood National Park?.