Get Lost Among Giants

See the Tallest Redwoods in the World in Humboldt

Humboldt County defies hyperbole. Here, you’ll encounter the tallest living trees, the biggest ferns, and stretches of the most dramatic coastline on earth. Venture to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, a sanctuary of old-growth redwoods, golden beaches, and vibrant green canyons. Herds of Roosevelt elk make their home here, and quite often you’ll find them grazing roadside.

Hike amongst prehistoric giants, like the 1,500-year-old Big Tree, and Corkscrew Tree, whose four braided trunks coil magnificently skyward. Find your way to Fern Canyon, a 50-foot-tall gorge with walls covered by seven kinds of ferns. It’s not at all uncommon to feel as though you’ve been transported to prehistoric times while gazing up at these giants. Fern Canyon, after all, was the backdrop for Jurassic Park II: The Lost World.

Don’t miss the incredible sunsets at Gold Bluffs Beach, a wild stretch of coast with unmatched views of the great blue Pacific. Now, the big question: Will you be visiting these giants this spring?

STAY: Eureka and Arcata are great jumping-off points for any journey, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and lodging options.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Hike to New Lights

    For an enlightening late-day hike, catch the San Francisco skyline at sunset from high atop Ring Mountain in Tiburon. This 2-mile (round-trip) hike to Turtle Rock is a perfect late afternoon wander.

    View
  2. Three Cheers

    Good things come in threes when you visit Sonoma. Head out on a short hike right from town, sip and stroll the historic plaza, then take in the magical holiday lights.

    View
  3. Hikers stand atop Lassen Peak in Lassen Volcanic National Park

    Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  4. Island Tree Topper

    The light display atop Angel Island State Park’s Mount Livermore has long been a cheerful twinkle visible from many cities throughout the Bay Area on holiday season nights. Get into the festive spirit by hiking the 2-mile (one-way) trail from Ayala Cove up to the "Angel Lights."

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View
  2. Dune It Right

    Want a beach that will really get you away from it all? Monterey's Fort Ord Dunes State Park is just the ticket. And it often glows golden toward sunset.

    View
  3. A woman walks the path next to the beach at sunset at Palisades Park in Los Angeles County

    Santa Monica’s Most Beautiful Walk

    With its sweeping views of Santa Monica Bay and the Santa Monica Pier, the 26-acre Palisades Park, perched along the beach bluffs, may be a tourist’s delight for its quintessential California vibes–but it’s just as beloved by locals. Follow this 2.5-mile loop to experience it like one.

    View
  4. Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian

    Three Sisters

    Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.

    View