Redwood National Park vs Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Question

My daughter (16) and I are planning on traveling via Hwy 1 from San Fran to Redwood National Park in late July. What is a must-see at Humboldt Redwoods State Park as we quickly pass through? Also, I am assuming with our limited time, it is best to spend more time at Redwood National Park over Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Let me know if I am wrong and should spend more time at Humboldt instead of the National Park.

Answer

Both Redwood National Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park are incredible destinations for experiencing California’s iconic coastal redwoods, but they offer slightly different experiences. Since your time is limited, prioritizing the National Park generally makes sense, though Humboldt Redwoods is also worth a brief stop if convenient along Hwy 101.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park Highlights:

Avenue of the Giants: This scenic 31-mile drive is the main attraction, winding through old-growth redwoods. It’s perfect for a quick drive or short hikes, offering plenty of pull-offs for photos.
Founders Grove: A small, accessible loop trail featuring some of the largest and oldest trees in the park.
Immortal Tree & Founders Tree: Short trails and viewpoints showcasing massive redwoods that are over 300 feet tall.

For a quick visit, a 1–2 hour stop at Founders Grove or a short drive along the Avenue of the Giants allows you to see some of the best parts of Humboldt Redwoods without taking too much time from your main trip.

Redwood National and State Parks Highlights:

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: Trails like the James Irvine Trail or Fern Canyon are must-sees for towering trees and lush scenery. Fern Canyon is especially scenic, with canyon walls completely covered in ferns.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove: A moderate trail showcasing old-growth redwoods, ideal for a family-friendly hike.
Knee Deep Forest Walks & Scenic Drives: The Coastal Drive offers quick access to several trailheads and viewpoints, plus opportunities to spot wildlife like Roosevelt elk.

Given your limited time, spending a full day at Redwood National Park provides more varied experiences — from hiking trails and scenic drives to wildlife viewing — compared to Humboldt Redwoods, which is primarily a scenic drive experience.

Suggested Plan:

Drive north on Hwy 101 and briefly stop at Humboldt Redwoods State Park (Founders Grove or a short stretch of Avenue of the Giants, 1–2 hours).
Continue to Redwood National and State Parks and spend the remainder of the day exploring trails, scenic drives, and viewpoints.

This approach gives you a taste of Humboldt Redwoods without sacrificing the richer experiences at Redwood National Park, which is better for immersive hiking and exploring with your 16-year-old.