Redwood National and State Parks is a unique and breathtakingly beautiful park system located in the northernmost part of California. This park system is a combination of state and national parks, which together create a massive 138,999-acre protected area that is home to some of the oldest and tallest trees in the world.
The park system consists of four different parks, namely Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. The entire park system is located along the Pacific Ocean coast and includes over 40 miles of coastline. The parks are open all year round, although some roads and facilities may be closed during the winter months due to weather conditions.
The most famous and awe-inspiring aspect of Redwood National and State Parks is, of course, the redwood trees. These towering giants can grow to heights of over 300 feet and have a lifespan of up to 2,000 years. The parks are home to numerous old-growth forests, which means that many of the trees have been standing for centuries, untouched by human hands. Walking through these ancient forests is a humbling experience that leaves visitors in awe of nature’s power and beauty.
In addition to the redwood trees, Redwood National and State Parks are also home to a diverse range of wildlife. Elk, black bears, and mountain lions all call the parks home, as do numerous bird species, including bald eagles and peregrine falcons. Visitors can also explore the parks’ rivers and beaches, which offer opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and tidepooling.
One of the best ways to experience Redwood National and State Parks is by taking a hike. There are over 200 miles of trails throughout the parks, ranging from short and easy strolls to strenuous multi-day backpacking trips. Some of the most popular hikes include the Tall Trees Grove Trail, which leads visitors through an ancient forest of some of the tallest trees in the world, and the Fern Canyon Trail, which takes hikers through a narrow canyon covered in ferns and mosses.
For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, there are also several scenic drives through the parks, including the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and the Howland Hill Road. These drives offer breathtaking views of the redwood forests and coastline and are perfect for those who want to experience the parks from the comfort of their car.
Redwood National and State Parks are a true wonder of California and a must-see for anyone who loves nature and the great outdoors. The parks offer a unique and awe-inspiring experience that is difficult to find anywhere else in the world. Whether you choose to hike, drive, or simply walk among the redwoods, the memories and experiences you’ll gain at Redwood National and State Parks will stay with you for a lifetime.
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