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Avenue of the Giants wilderness guide
Scenic Drive · CA

Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants is a world-renowned 31-mile scenic drive through Humboldt Redwoods State Park in Northern California, famous for its towering redwood trees.

Scenic Drive51,0004+ Trails

Designation

Scenic Drive

Total Wilderness Area

51,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Avenue of the Giants

Avenue of the Giants is a world-renowned 31-mile scenic drive through Humboldt Redwoods State Park in Northern California, famous for its towering redwood trees.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Avenue of the Giants runs parallel to Highway 101 and offers travelers the opportunity to experience the majestic beauty of old-growth redwoods. Located within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, this route provides access to some of the world's tallest trees, with many reaching heights over 300 feet. The area is rich in biodiversity, with a lush understory of ferns and a variety of wildlife including black bears, deer, and numerous bird species. Historically, the redwood forest has been a vital ecosystem for Indigenous peoples, and the area continues to be a site for both conservation and recreation. Visitors can explore various hiking trails, rivers, and groves such as Founders' Grove and Rockefeller Forest. The combination of serene natural landscapes and accessible recreational opportunities makes it a captivating destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Field Guide · Scenic Drive
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Avenue of the Giants

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Towering Giants of the Drury-Chaney Trail★ 8.7⌖ 10 miHiking
Drury-Chaney Trail

Towering Giants of the Drury-Chaney Trail

Explore the Drury-Chaney Trail in Avenue of the Giants. This easy hike winds through towering redwoods offering serene scenery and is perfect for families and photography buffs. Visit during late spring through fall for the best experience.

Discover King Range National Conservation Area★ 8.8⌖ 15 miHiking
King Range National Conservation Area

Discover King Range National Conservation Area

Explore King Range, featuring rugged coastlines and dense forests. This remote area offers hiking and beachcombing. Best visited in spring and fall, it's a quiet spot for adventure seekers. Don't miss wildlife along the Lost Coast Trail.

Hiking the Lost Coast Trail★ 8.5⌖ 25 miHiking
Lost Coast Trail

Hiking the Lost Coast Trail

Explore California's Lost Coast Trail, a remote 25-mile trek from Mattole Beach to Shelter Cove. With rugged beauty and solitude, this hike offers wildlife watching and beach camping. Best visited in spring or fall.

Tranquil Trails: Northridge Trail Loop★ 7.4⌖ 32 miHiking
Northridge Trail Loop Parking Lot

Tranquil Trails: Northridge Trail Loop

Explore the Northridge Trail Loop in Eureka, CA. This moderate, forested hike offers nature photography and bird-watching opportunities in one of California's serene redwood areas. Enjoy quieter trails year-round.

Shady Dell / Enchanted Forest of Candelabra Redwoods★ 8.8⌖ 33 miHiking
Shady Dell / Enchanted Forest of Candelabra Redwoods

Shady Dell / Enchanted Forest of Candelabra Redwoods

Explore the Shady Dell / Enchanted Forest of Candelabra Redwoods, located off Usal Road in Whitethorn, California. Known for its easy trails and unique redwood formations, it's ideal for hiking and photography. Experience peace and quiet year-round. Not wheelchair accessible.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Founders' Grove - a famous collection of some of the largest redwoods.✦ Rockefeller Forest - the largest contiguous old-growth redwood forest in the world.✦ Dyerville Giant - a massive tree that once stood over 370 feet tall.✦ Immortal Tree - a 950-year-old redwood that has survived lightning and floods.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Avenue of the Giants

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Avenue of the Giants
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Avenue of the Giants
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Avenue of the Giants
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Avenue of the Giants
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Avenue of the Giants
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Avenue of the Giants.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees required for general access.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Avenue of the Giants

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Burlington Campground

Located near the visitor center with amenities including restrooms and showers.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Avenue of the Giants

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Weott
⌖ 1.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Weott, California

A gateway community to the majestic Redwood National and State Parks offering rugged coastal forests, river access, and peaceful nature escapes.

Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Honeydew
⌖ 10.56 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Honeydew, California

A remote coastal gateway known for rugged outdoor adventures, pristine forests, and river-focused activities within California's famed Redwood region.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Phillipsville
⌖ 10.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Phillipsville, California

A quiet gateway to Northern California's rugged redwood coast, ideal for paddlers, hikers, and those seeking peaceful forest adventures.

Spring through early FallExplore Town
Redway
⌖ 14.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Redway, California

A small gateway community offering quiet access to Northern California’s redwood forests, rivers, and wildlife, ideal for nature lovers seeking offbeat outdoor adventures.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Scotia
⌖ 14.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Scotia, California

A peaceful community with access to Northern California's lush forests, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Rio Dell
⌖ 15.39 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rio Dell, California

A small riverside community offering rugged outdoor experiences along the Eel River with a focus on hiking, paddling, and forest exploration.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Avenue of the Giants

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.