1 day suggestions from klamath?

Question

Hi! we are staying at the Klamath RV park in september and will have 1 full day and the next morning to see the redwoods before heading up the oregon coast. I know its not much time, so what would you suggest to make the most of our limited time. we can do short, 2-3 mile easy to moderate hikes, and have a travel van as our driver. thanks for your help

Answer

With just one full day and a half morning to explore Redwood National and State Parks from Klamath, you can still see some of the most iconic sights and enjoy a few easy to moderate hikes. Staying flexible and focusing on highlights close to Klamath will help you make the most of your limited time.

Day 1: Full Day Itinerary

Morning: Drive through the Redwood Highway (US-101) and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: Start early to see towering redwoods without crowds. Stop at scenic pullouts along the way for photos.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail: 1.5-mile loop, easy to moderate. Beautiful old-growth redwoods with interpretive signs. Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.
Fern Canyon: About 10 minutes from Klamath, this short, scenic hike (1 mile roundtrip) is famous for vertical canyon walls covered in ferns and featured in films. Wear good shoes as it can be damp.
Lunch in Klamath or picnic in the park: There are picnic areas along the scenic drives where you can relax and enjoy the forest ambiance.
Afternoon: Big Tree Wayside or Trees of Mystery: Trees of Mystery offers a short trail under some of the largest redwoods, and the Sky Trail gondola gives a fun aerial perspective. Big Tree Wayside is a quick stop to see massive redwoods and the Big Tree itself.

Evening: Optional Coastal Drive

Take a short drive west to the coast near Klamath River Overlook for sunset views where the river meets the Pacific.
Watch for Roosevelt elk along the way; Prairie Creek area is known for herds.

Day 2: Half Morning

Gold Bluffs Beach: Easy stroll along the beach in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Great for tidepooling and morning views.
Short stop at Howland Hill Road: If you have a bit of extra time, this scenic drive offers more giant redwoods and quieter spots before heading north along the Oregon Coast.

Tips

Start early to avoid crowds, especially at popular trails like Fern Canyon.
Wear layers, as September mornings and forests can be cool and damp.
Carry water and snacks for the day; picnic areas are available if you prefer to bring your own food.
Check tide schedules if planning any beach walks along Gold Bluffs Beach.
Use your travel van for flexible access to scenic overlooks and trailheads close to Klamath.

Even with limited time, focusing on Fern Canyon, Lady Bird Johnson Grove, a scenic drive, and a coastal stop will give you a memorable glimpse of the redwoods and the rugged Northern California coastline.

1 day suggestions from klamath?

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