Hikes

Question

Best hikes to see beauty, waterfalls possibly? 4-5 miles max. In the redwoods. Thx!

Answer

Crescent City is a fantastic gateway to the northern California redwoods, with several moderate hikes under 5 miles that showcase towering trees, lush forest scenery, and some beautiful waterfalls.

Here are some of the best options for hikes around Crescent City:

Mill Creek Falls Trail: Located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, this roughly 2-mile round-trip hike takes you through old-growth redwoods to a stunning waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and family-friendly.
Boy Scout Tree Trail: About 3.5 miles round-trip, this trail winds through impressive old-growth forest and leads to the Boy Scout Tree, a remarkable giant redwood. No waterfalls, but incredible forest scenery.
Stout Grove Loop: A short 0.5–1 mile loop that’s perfect if you want an easy stroll among some of the largest redwoods. While it’s shorter than 4-5 miles, you can combine it with other nearby trails in Jedediah Smith SP for a longer outing.
Hiouchi Trail to Prairie Creek Redwoods: Around 4 miles round-trip, this trail provides a mix of redwood forest and creek views. Check for seasonal waterfalls along small streams during wetter months.
Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park Trails: Trails like Enderts Beach Trail or the Cliff Creek Trail offer 3–4 mile hikes through coastal redwoods with occasional creek crossings and small waterfalls, plus spectacular views of the Pacific if you extend to the coast.

Tips for hiking in Crescent City redwoods:

Wear sturdy shoes, as trails can be muddy or slippery near waterfalls.
Bring water and snacks; cell reception may be limited in some areas.
Plan for at least 2–3 hours to fully enjoy each trail and take photos.
Check the park websites for current trail conditions and parking information.

With these options, you can easily enjoy 4–5 miles of some of the most iconic redwood scenery in California, including a few waterfalls and the quiet beauty of old-growth forests.

Hikes

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