Redwood park
How many days to visit the parks staying in hiouchi
Hiouchi is a small community located just south of the main areas of Redwood National and State Parks, making it a convenient base for exploring the parks. How many days you should spend depends on how much you want to see and how active you plan to be, but here’s a detailed suggestion.
For a first-time visit with moderate hiking and sightseeing, 2 to 3 full days is ideal. This allows you to see the major highlights without rushing and to enjoy both the tall old-growth forests and some coastal areas.
- Day 1: Explore the northern part of the parks, such as the Tall Trees Grove and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Stop at Fern Canyon if you enjoy short hikes and unique scenery.
- Day 2: Visit the southern and central areas, including Lady Bird Johnson Grove, Big Tree Wayside, and the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. Take a leisurely hike among the giant redwoods.
- Day 3 (optional): Explore coastal areas near the park such as Gold Bluffs Beach, end-of-the-road viewpoints, or take a drive through Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. This day is also good for any hikes or drives you missed on previous days.
Tips for staying in Hiouchi:
- All park entrances are within 30–60 minutes drive, so you can start early each day.
- Pack snacks and water for the day since services inside the parks are limited.
- If you enjoy photography, plan your visits in the morning or late afternoon for softer light among the trees.
Overall, 2 full days will cover the essentials, while 3 days allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore hidden gems without feeling rushed.
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