Redwood National Park includes three state parks--Prairie Creek Redwood, Del Norte Redwood and Jedediah Smith Redwood State Parks, giving you even more options as to what to enjoy in this moderate coastal climate. From hikes among some of the world's oldest trees and walks along the Pacific Ocean beach to observing wildlife and sightseeing from your car, the treasures this park offers make it worth visiting year-round.
If the cold of winter gets you down, visit this park in early spring to give you hope. Everywhere you look, you see green--from the tall trees to the lush green under story. The rainy, foggy climate of the park keeps everything growing year-round.
In early spring, grab your binoculars and drive to Klamath River Overlook to watch for gray whales migrating along the coast. The whales swim quite close to shore during their spring migration, so the calves can rest. Find whales by watching for their blows, a large mist of water droplets these mammals blow out when surfacing.
In April, look for wildflowers as you hike along the wooded trails of the park. Get lucky and you might spot the three-petaled trillium, violets, or any variety of delicate blooms native to the area. Watch for banana slugs as you look down. You can't miss the thick yellow bodies of these deep forest creatures.
In May, watch for spectacular blooming rhododendrons.
From June through Labor Day weekend in September, the crowds get much heavier. But there's plenty of room in the park for everyone. Check out the ranger-led programs that show you some of the most amazing features of the park. Choose from campfire programs held at the campgrounds as well as forest and tide pool walks held in various locations.
August offers star gazing led by the Redwood Park Association. Check with the ranger station to find out dates, times, and places.
In September, bugling elk offer an experience you never forget. Bull elk make a high-pitched whistling sound to stake their claim against other male elk in an effort to win as many female elk, or cows, as they can. Listen for bulging day and night during mating season in the fall. Get lucky, and you might see the bull rounding up his harem to protect them from other bulls.
To see lots of autumn color, visit the park in the late fall when the deciduous trees turn a bright rainbow of colors from yellow to orange to red.
In December, join the park on a candlelight walk through the old growth forest. The quiet of the forest with the flickering candles offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
In January and February, the park's visitor numbers go down dramatically, making it a perfect time to visit if you detest crowds. Temperatures remain mild throughout the winter, but bring warm clothing because the humidity makes it feel a bit colder.
