Driving Avenue of the Giants

Question

Hi experts

Is south to north or north to south better? Or, should I have the time, like we did for the Icefields Parkway, do both as you see different things?

How long does one way take roughly, allowing for several stops? Which are the top sights/stops/trees? I mean between Pepperwood/exit 674 and Phillipsville/exit 645. Is there a Visitor Center or place to pick up auto tour maps at the north end as we are starting from Eureka direction, coming from Oregon?

Oh, any suggestions for lodging north of the driving route?

Thank you all

Answer

Driving the Avenue of the Giants is a fantastic way to experience the redwoods of Northern California, and both directions—south to north or north to south—offer slightly different perspectives. Many travelers coming from Eureka (north end) choose to drive south to north because it allows you to gradually get deeper into the forest and finish near Phillipsville, which is convenient if you plan to continue northward or stay in nearby towns.

The drive itself, from Pepperwood (exit 674) to Phillipsville (exit 645), is roughly 31 miles. Without stops, it can take about 45–60 minutes, but allowing time for multiple scenic stops, short hikes, and photo opportunities, it’s best to budget 3–4 hours for a relaxed one-way trip.

Top sights and stops along the route include:

Immortal Tree: A massive redwood you can walk around and admire its size.
Founders Grove: Features an easy walking trail through old-growth redwoods and interpretive signs.
Big Tree: A 370-foot-tall redwood with a short trail loop.
Dyerville Giant Site: Location of a fallen giant that once was one of the tallest trees in the world.
Chandelier Tree (near Leggett, slightly off the main Avenue): Famous for the drive-through tree.

Visitor information:

The Humboldt Redwoods State Park Visitor Center is located near the south end of the route, but if you’re coming from Eureka, check for information kiosks in Myers Flat or at Founders Grove. Auto tour maps are often available at these points or online beforehand.
Interpretive signs along the route provide historical and ecological information.

Lodging north of the Avenue of the Giants:

Eureka: Offers a variety of hotels, motels, and bed & breakfasts.
Arcata: Close to Humboldt State University, with several hotels and inns.
Redway or Myers Flat: Smaller towns closer to the forest, offering cozy inns, cabins, or vacation rentals.

If time allows, driving both directions is enjoyable as the light and perspective change, but most travelers pick one direction and focus on stopping frequently to fully appreciate the trees, trails, and scenic viewpoints.

Driving Avenue of the Giants

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