Closest Airport to Redwood Forest
Did you know the Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is just 40 miles from Redwood National Park? This makes planning your trip to the redwood forests of California easy. Choosing the right airport is key for a smooth journey to see these giants.
When looking for flights, remember there are several airports near the redwoods. Arcata-Eureka Airport is the closest, but Crescent City, CA (CEC) and Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) are also good choices. This guide will help you pick the best airport for your trip to these amazing forests.
Discovering the Majestic Redwood Forests
Start an exciting journey through California’s redwood forests. Here, nature’s beauty is unmatched. You’ll see the tallest trees, some over 370 feet tall. These giants, called Sequoia sempervirens, can live up to 2,000 years.
The Allure of California’s Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks are a joint effort between the National Park Service and California State Parks. They protect nearly half of the world’s remaining old-growth redwoods. This vast park system in northern California is a must-see.
When planning your trip, think about airports near the redwoods. Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport is the closest, about a 3-hour drive. San Francisco, Oakland, and Sacramento airports are about 6 hours away, perfect for a weekend trip.
If you’re starting your journey from a major city, check out our guide on San Francisco to Redwood National Park for tips on the best scenic routes.
Unique Features and Attractions of the Redwood Forests
The parks are full of natural wonders. You’ll find stunning beaches, calm rivers, and lush canyons. Look out for Roosevelt elk in the meadows, adding to the magic.
| Park/Reserve | Size (Acres) | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve | 805 | Serene experience among towering redwoods |
| Trione-Annadel State Park | 5,092 | Seasonal streams, lush meadows, and diverse redwood habitats |
For an exciting adventure, try a zipline tour with Sonoma Zipline Adventures in Occidental. You’ll zip through seven lines, cross bridges, and rappel down a 700-year-old redwood. It’s a unique way to see these trees.
When choosing airports and places to stay, consider Highland Dell Lodge in Monte Rio. Built in 1906, it offers views of the redwoods and Russian River. Golf lovers will enjoy Northwood Golf Club, designed by Alister MacKenzie, in the Russian River Valley.
Planning Your Trip to the Redwoods
Visiting the redwood forests is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. As you plan, think about the best time to go, where to stay, and how to explore the Redwood National and State Parks. With some preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy the beauty of these ancient giants.
Best Time to Visit the Redwood Forests
The summer months, from June to August, are the best time to see the redwoods. The weather is sunny, perfect for enjoying the trees’ grandeur. But the redwoods’ dense canopy keeps the weather cool all year.
If you want fewer crowds, visit in May, September, or October. These months offer beautiful views and comfortable weather without the crowds.
Accommodation Options Near the Redwoods
There are many places to stay near the redwoods, from camping to hotels. Camping in the parks, like Jedediah Smith or Elk Prairie, lets you live among the trees. For more comfort, cities like Eureka and Arcata have hotels and vacation rentals.
These places offer easy access to the parks and modern amenities. They’re great for exploring the area.
Getting Around the Redwood National and State Parks
Driving is the best way to see the Redwood National and State Parks. The parks cover over 130,000 acres with many scenic drives and trails. Having a car lets you explore at your own pace.
Get a map at a visitor center to navigate the roads. There are no park shuttles, but airports like Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) and Crescent City Airport (CEC) are close. With a rental car, your adventure through the redwoods will be unforgettable.
| Campground | Location | Number of Sites | RV Length Limit | Open Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jedediah Smith Campground | Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park | 86 | 25 feet (RV) / 21 feet (trailer) | Year-round (reservable May 1 – Oct 1) |
| Elk Prairie Campground | Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park | 75 | 27 feet (RV) / 24 feet (trailer) | Year-round |
| Mill Creek Campground | Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park | 145 | 28 feet (RV) / 24 feet (trailer) | May 18 – September 30 |
| Gold Bluffs Beach Campground | Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park | 26 | 24 feet (RV) | Year-round |
Closest Airport to Redwood Forest
Planning your redwood forest vacation? Picking the right airport is key for a great trip. Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is the closest major airport to the redwoods. It’s a perfect start for your adventure in Northern California’s majestic forests.
Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV): The Nearest Gateway
Arcata-Eureka Airport, also known as California Redwood Coast – Humboldt County Airport, is in McKinleyville, California. It’s the closest to Redwood National Park, making it easy to get to the park’s southern entrance. ACV has daily flights to San Francisco and other big cities. This means quick check-in and security, making your travel smooth.
Choosing ACV for your redwood park trip has many benefits:
- It’s close to the redwoods, so you can spend more time exploring.
- The airport is smaller, which means less crowded and shorter waits.
- The drive from the airport to the park is scenic, showing off the beautiful landscapes.
Distance and Travel Time from ACV to the Redwoods
Arcata-Eureka Airport is about 40 miles from Redwood National Park’s southern entrance. The drive takes about 40 minutes, depending on traffic. This close location makes ACV the best choice for those wanting to dive into the redwood forests.
| From | To | Distance | Approximate Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) | Redwood National Park (Southern Entrance) | 40 miles | 40 minutes |
| Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) | Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park | 55 miles | 1 hour |
| Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) | Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park | 92 miles | 1 hour 45 minutes |
ACV is the closest major airport to the redwoods, but it has fewer flights and higher prices. Yet, the convenience and time saved by flying into ACV make it a great choice for your redwood forest vacation.
Other Nearby Airports to Consider
The Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is the closest to the redwoods. But, other airports near the redwoods are worth looking into. They offer different flights, destinations, and amenities. Let’s check out a few airports and how close they are to the redwoods.
Crescent City, CA (CEC) Airport
The Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC) in Crescent City, California, is a good choice for northern redwoods. It’s 20 miles from the Oregon border and 65 miles from Redwood National Park’s north entrance. CEC has limited flights, but they’re affordable, with fares around $200. It’s 7 miles from downtown Crescent City, a 10-minute drive.
Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR)
The Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) in southern Oregon is another option. It’s 115 miles from Redwood National Park’s north part. MFR has more flights and amenities than ACV and CEC. But, it’s a 2-hour drive to Crescent City. If you’re okay with the drive, MFR might offer better flights and prices.
| Airport | Distance to Redwoods | Drive Time | Flight Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crescent City, CA (CEC) | 65 miles to northern entrance | 10 minutes to Crescent City | Limited, mostly smaller airlines |
| Rogue Valley International-Medford (MFR) | 115 miles to northern part | Over 2 hours to Crescent City | More options, serves various cities |
When picking an airport for your redwoods trip, think about how close it is to your destinations. Also, consider flight availability and prices. Whether you choose CEC or MFR, you’ll be closer to the stunning redwoods of California.
Major Airports for Redwood Forest Travel
Planning a trip to the Redwood Forests? You have several airports to choose from. Arcata-Eureka (ACV) and Crescent City (CEC) are closer. But San Francisco International (SFO) and Portland International (PDX) are great starting points.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is a top pick for Redwood Forest visitors. It’s about 330 miles from the parks. SFO has many airlines and flights, making it easy to find a good deal.
From SFO, you can drive along the California Coast. This route offers stunning views as you head to the redwood groves.
| Airport | Distance to Redwood National Park | Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco International (SFO) | 330 miles | 6 hours |
Portland International Airport (PDX)
Traveling from the Pacific Northwest? Portland International Airport (PDX) is a good choice. Like SFO, it’s about 330 miles from the parks. PDX offers many flight options.
From PDX, take Interstate 5 south to Grants Pass. Then, follow the Redwood Highway (Hwy 199) to Crescent City. You’ll be near the magical redwood forests.
| Airport | Distance to Redwood National Park | Driving Time |
|---|---|---|
| Portland International (PDX) | 330 miles | 6 hours |
Whether you fly into SFO or PDX, you’ll find car rentals and other transport services. Explore the Redwood Forests and see the iconic groves. Enjoy the peace and beauty of these ancient forests.
Getting from the Airport to the Redwoods
After landing at an airport near the California redwoods, you’ll need to figure out how to get to these amazing forests. Renting a car is the best way to travel. It lets you explore at your own pace and see all the parks and groves in the area.
Rental Car Options and Recommendations
At airports like San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Sacramento International Airport, you’ll find many rental car companies. Booking through Costco Travel can get you discounts on Avis, Budget, Alamo, and Enterprise. These deals often come with free cancellations, so you can change plans if needed.
At smaller airports like Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) or Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR), you might have fewer choices. But, you can still find cars from big companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget.
Driving Routes and Scenic Stops
As you drive from the airport to the redwoods, enjoy the beautiful views. Here are some routes and stops to consider:
| Route | Distance | Estimated Drive Time | Scenic Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco to Eureka | 278 miles | 4.5 hours | – Golden Gate Bridge – Point Reyes National Seashore – Avenue of the Giants |
| Sacramento to Eureka | 309 miles | 5 hours | – Lake Oroville State Recreation Area – Lassen Volcanic National Park – Shasta-Trinity National Forest |
| Medford to Eureka | 196 miles | 3.5 hours | – Oregon Caves National Monument – Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park – Klamath River Overlook |
| Crescent City to Eureka | 84 miles | 1.5 hours | – Battery Point Lighthouse – Trees of Mystery – Redwood National Park |
Always check the road conditions and plan for rest stops. Some routes are winding and need extra care. Renting a car and driving through the redwoods will let you enjoy their beauty and make memories that last a lifetime.
Exploring the Redwoods by Car
After arriving in the Redwood region, the best way to see these ancient trees is by car. A well-planned road trip lets you see Redwood National and State Parks’ highlights. You can stop for short walks at breathtaking viewpoints along the way.
Howland Hill Road is a must-drive. It’s a 10-mile journey on a narrow, unpaved road through the old-growth redwood forest. This road lets you feel small next to the towering trees. Don’t miss the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway either. It’s a 10-mile paved road that shows off some of the park’s most impressive redwood groves.
Bald Hills Road offers a different view of the Redwood region. It takes you through open prairies, high hills, and arid landscapes. This route is great for spotting wildlife and enjoying expansive views. Remember, the drive itself is part of the adventure, with stunning coastal views and charming towns to explore.
| Scenic Drive | Distance | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Howland Hill Road | 10 miles | Narrow, unpaved road through old-growth redwoods |
| Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway | 10 miles | Paved road showcasing impressive redwood groves |
| Bald Hills Road | 17 miles | Open prairies, high hills, and arid landscapes; wildlife spotting opportunities |
To enjoy your redwood road trip, follow these tips:
- Give yourself plenty of time for each route. You’ll want to stop often for photos and short walks.
- Bring snacks, water, and a picnic lunch. Enjoy them at scenic overlooks or trailheads.
- Fill up your gas tank before entering the park. There are no gas stations inside the park.
- Check road conditions before driving, especially on unpaved roads like Howland Hill Road.
Exploring the Redwoods by car lets you appreciate their scale and diversity. From the towering coast redwoods to the lush ferns, it’s an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s a day trip from a nearby airport or a multi-day adventure, driving through the Redwoods is a must-do.
Immersing Yourself in the Redwood Forests on Foot
To truly experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the redwood forests, exploring them on foot is the best way. Redwood National and State Parks offer over 100 miles of hiking trails through old-growth redwood groves. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, these parks have something for everyone. They are a perfect destination for your redwood forest travel adventures.
Must-Do Hikes and Trails in the Redwoods
The redwood area is home to some of the most iconic and breathtaking hiking trails in the world. Here are a few must-do hikes that showcase the best of the redwoods:
- Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail: This easy 1.5-mile round-trip hike takes you through a stunning old-growth redwood grove, offering a perfect introduction to the redwood forests.
- Trillium Falls Trail: A moderate 2.6-mile hike with an elevation gain of 433 feet, this trail leads you to a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush redwood forest.
- Fern Canyon Trail: This fairly easy 1.1-mile trail takes you through a prehistoric-looking canyon with walls covered in ferns, providing a unique and enchanting experience.
- Boy Scout Tree Trail: A more challenging 5.5-mile round-trip hike, this trail showcases numerous old-growth redwoods and offers a true wilderness experience.
Discovering Hidden Gems and Secluded Groves
While the popular trails are certainly worth exploring, the redwood forests also hold many hidden gems and secluded groves waiting to be discovered. When flying to redwood state parks, be sure to venture off the beaten path and explore some of these lesser-known trails:
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stout Memorial Grove Trail | 0.5 miles | Easy | Serene old-growth redwood grove, perfect for picnics |
| Revelation Trail | 0.3 miles | Easy | Short loop trail with interpretive signs about redwood ecology |
| Redwood Creek Overlook | 0.2 miles | Easy | Stunning views of over 9,000 acres of old-growth and second-growth redwood forests |
| Grove of Titans | 1.5 miles | Moderate | Metal boardwalk showcasing unique “reiterated” redwoods |
By exploring these hidden gems and secluded groves, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the redwood forests. Experience the true magic of these ancient giants. So, grab your hiking boots, consult your redwood area airport guides, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the redwoods on foot.
Unforgettable Experiences in the Redwood Forests
Exploring the Redwood Forests is an unforgettable journey. You can drive through the park or hike on many trails. The towering redwoods will amaze you. With over 200 miles of trails and eight scenic drives, you’ll find many hidden spots.
One must-see is the Tall Trees Trail. It’s a 4.5-mile hike through stunning old-growth groves. Only 50 visitors are allowed each day. You can get a permit online two days in advance. If you can’t get a permit, try the Lady Bird Grove Trail for a beautiful 1.3-mile walk.
The Redwood Forests are also home to wildlife like Roosevelt Elk. Elk Meadow is great for spotting them. The park has over 280 bird species and many plants. Look out for bald eagles, osprey, and gray whales along the coast.
Remember to keep food safe from bears. The park’s campgrounds have seen more bear sightings. With so much to see, the Redwood Forests offer unforgettable memories. Your trip will be special, no matter which airport you fly into.
Check the Govt’s website on National Parks by clicking here NPS.gov Homepage (U.S. National Park Service)
