Coast Redwoods

National Geographic picked in 2009

Country : United States of America

Currency : US Dollar

Big Mac Index : 5.15

Travel Safety : Low Risk

The Coast Redwoods, also known as the Sierra Redwoods, are a species of tall, evergreen trees that can be found along the coast of California and southern Oregon. These trees are some of the tallest and oldest living organisms on Earth, with some reaching heights of over 379 feet and ages of over 2,000 years. The Coast Redwoods are a unique and awe-inspiring natural wonder, and a visit to see them is a must for any nature lover. Getting There: The easiest way to get to the Coast Redwoods is by flying into one of the airports in the region. The closest airports are San Francisco International Airport, Oakland International Airport and Sacramento International Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park. The park is located approximately 300 miles (480 km) north of San Francisco and about 50 miles (80 km) south of the Oregon border. Things to See and Do: - Drive the Avenue of the Giants: The Avenue of the Giants is a 31-mile (50 km) scenic drive that takes you through some of the park's most stunning landscapes. This drive will take you through ancient groves of giant redwoods, across bridges and along the Eel River. - Hiking: The Coast Redwoods have over 200 miles (320 km) of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. Some of the most popular trails include the Tall Trees Grove Trail, the James Irvine Trail and the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail. - Camping: The park offers a range of camping options, including primitive campsites, developed campgrounds and group campsites. Reservations are required for all campsites and they can be made online or by phone. - Wildlife Viewing: The Coast Redwoods are home to a wide range of wildlife, including black bears, deer, elk, and mountain lions. The park also has a rich birdlife, including the endangered Marbled Murrelet. - Beaches: The park has several beaches along the rugged coastline, including Gold Bluffs Beach and Enderts Beach. These beaches offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the opportunity to explore tide pools and watch marine life. When to Visit: The best time to visit the Coast Redwoods is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is generally mild and sunny, making it perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. However, it's also important to keep in mind that the summer months are the busiest time to visit so the parks can get crowded. If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in the spring or fall. Tips: - Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as sunscreen and insect repellent. - Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for hiking. - Be aware of the park's hours and regulations, and follow posted signs. - Don't forget that many of the parks have camping facilities. If you want to spend a night or more among the redwoods, be sure to make reservations in advance.

Photo - Unsplash: Zetong Li