If you’re in Arcata and thinking, “Should I hit up Redwood National Park while I’m here?” — the answer is a big, thundering YES. Arcata is the perfect home base for your redwood adventure. It’s only about 30 miles from Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, part of the greater Redwood National and State Parks system, which means in less than an hour you could be standing beneath trees taller than a 30-story building. I mean, that’s just cool.

🚗 First Things First: Getting There from Arcata

Redwood National and State Parks isn’t just one place — it's a massive, 139,000-acre stretch of wild beauty split among Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast, Prairie Creek, and Redwood National Park itself. From Arcata, the closest and most scenic section is Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, about 40 minutes north via US-101 N. Trust us, the drive alone is jaw-dropping. You’ll pass rivers, misty hills, and even a few roadside elk (seriously — there’s a spot called Elk Meadow).

🗺️ Planning Your Itinerary: What to See and Do

To get the most out of your redwood day trip (or weekend!), here are a few must-dos:

🌲 Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

• Easy, 1.5-mile loop

• Classic fog-and-fern forest vibes

• Named after the First Lady who helped protect this area
  

🚶 Fern Canyon

• Short hike through a 50-ft deep canyon blanketed in ferns

• Jurassic Park 2 was filmed here — yeah, it’s that epic

• Bring waterproof shoes or sandals
  

🦌 Elk Prairie

• Great spot to spot Roosevelt elk just chillin’ in the meadow

• Bring your camera and some patience
  

🌊 Gold Bluffs Beach

• Craving ocean views? Walk the beach after your hike

• You can drive right up to the water
  

🍽️ Fuel Up Before or After the Forest

Back in Arcata, you’ve got some solid local gems to fill your belly:

• Jitterbean Coffee Co. (900 G St, Arcata, CA 95521) – grab a latte and breakfast sandwich before hitting the road

• Salt Fish House (935 I St, Arcata, CA 95521) – seafood lovers, this one’s for you

• Tomo Japanese Restaurant (708 9th St, Arcata, CA 95521) – warm up with ramen after a foggy hike

And if you’ve got some time, stop by Arcata Plaza. It’s a quirky little downtown with bookstores, vintage shops, and a relaxed NorCal vibe that’s impossible not to love.

🌟 Pro Tips Before You Go

• Bring layers – redwood forests are cool and misty, even in summer

• Download maps ahead of time – cell service is spotty in the woods

• Respect wildlife – keep a safe distance from elk and other animals

• Plan your stops – signage can be minimal, so know your trail names
  

🚘 Ready to Hit the Redwoods?

Whether it’s a one-day adventure or a full weekend of hiking and beach hopping, having your own ride makes it 1000% better. No waiting, no rushing — just you, the open road, and the tallest trees on Earth.

Ready to explore Arcata and the magic beyond? Secure your rental car today with Humboldt Rental Cars at this link or give us a call at +1 707-335-2010. Let’s get rollin’ — the redwoods are callin’.