California Redwood vacation suggestions

J

jkc

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I've accumulated some vacation time I need to spend, and will here post queries about various areas of interest, inviting notes and comments from the knowledgeable folks here ---


First on my list ---

The coastal redwoods in Humboldt County, CA, where I'm particularly and primarily interested in seeing these big trees, and also interested in everything else local, including coastal scenery, fauna, geology, etc. I'd appreciate suggestions on when to go, where to stay/eat, what to see, what gear/clothing to bring,etc., on a modest budget and abbreviated agenda. I don't mind camping and am well equipped in that regard, but must weigh the cost of driving from metro Phoenix with a load of camp gear, vs.,flying in, renting a car, staying in a motel or etc.

And, since it's at least a two-day drive, with Bakersfield about the halfway point, what diversions/side trips might be worthwhile, coming or going?
 
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There is a road that cuts off of Hwy. 101 just north of Fortuna, it goes through Ferndale and then out toward the Pacific. The road goes south and then east through the Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and back out to the 101. I have driven it three times. It takes about two and a half hours. There is almost no traffic on it.

As for scenery it has it all, ranches, rugged coastline and redwoods. I have always gone north to south, which I would recommend. Be sure to have plenty of gas, because there are no services.

Have fun, and post pics when you get back.
 
Marvin Gardens said:
west on 46 through Paso Robles to 101 and north to San Simeon and Hearst Castle.

Stay on 101 and head north all the way up the coast and the scenery will be breathtaking.
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I've done that drive. Once you're on the Coast (HWY 1) it's fantastic.

Be REAL careful on 46. My brother calls it blood highway. Narrow, needs repaving, and lots of large trucks that make passing dangerous.
 
Don't be distracted by all the small touristey Redwood places that you'll pass along the highway. There all cheesey and expensive. If you want to see the best Redwoods in their natural state then head to Jedidiah Smith State Park just southeast of Crescent City, it will overwhelm you.
 
dacoontz said:
Don't be distracted by all the small touristey Redwood places that you'll pass along the highway. There all cheesey and expensive. If you want to see the best Redwoods in their natural state then head to Jedidiah Smith State Park just southeast of Crescent City, it will overwhelm you.
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+10 Jed Smith is one of the most beautiful places on earth.
 
Thanks gents! This is just the sort of info I was hoping for. Anyone able to comment on the advisability of visiting the area between Xmas and New Years Eve? It looks like the weather is always on the cool, damp, foggy side, even in summer, but seldom frigid, even in winter? Maybe lodging is cheaper in the off season, and attractions less crowded?
 
Muir Woods...North of San Francisco

Big Basin Redwood State Park on Highway 236 . . . in the Santa Cruz mountains.
 
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