Step into the ancient forests of Redwood National and State Parks, where towering redwoods reach for the sky and carpets of ferns create a magical understory. Wander along trails and scenic drives, encounter plant- and wildlife, and feel the quiet majesty of an ecosystem that has thrived for millions of years. This guide helps you discover the best hikes, plant- and wildlife highlights, must-see spots, and seasonal tips to make the most of your time among these giants.

The James Irvine Trail is an incredible hike through a dense redwood forest, leading down to Gold Bluffs Beach and the popular Fern Canyon. Along the way, you can spot redwood sorrel, with its heart-shaped, clover-like leaves, banana slugs, or even Roosevelt Elk, that live in this unique habitat. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through this magical hike, share fascinating facts about the majestic redwoods, and my best tips for exploring this route!