A weekend road trip from San Francisco to Redwood National Park promises adventure and stunning views. Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
The Route
The drive from San Francisco to Redwood National Park spans about 330 to 350 miles. Expect to spend 6 to 7 hours on the road, depending on traffic and your chosen route.
– Fastest Route: Take US-101 North. This highway runs through Santa Rosa and offers scenic views as you approach the coast near Eureka.
– Scenic Route:For breathtaking coastal views, opt for CA-1 North, which hugs the Pacific Ocean. This route takes longer—around 8.5 hours—but rewards you with stunning vistas.
Highlights Along the Way
– Marin Headlands: Enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
– Point Reyes National Seashore: A perfect spot for a quick hike or picnic.
– Bodega Bay: Stop for fresh seafood and beautiful coastal scenery.
Scenic Stops
Must-See Views
As you drive, keep an eye out for these scenic spots:
– Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: A serene drive through towering redwoods.
– Bald Hills Road: Offers access to Lady Bird Johnson Grove and stunning overlooks.
Where to Eat
Fuel up during your journey with these delicious stops:
– Along US-101:Stop in Santa Rosa for lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant.
– In Redwood National Park:
– Enjoy a picnic amidst nature. Pack sandwiches or snacks from local markets.
– For a sit-down meal, head to Crescent City, where you can find seafood restaurants like Chart Room Restaurant.
Exploring Redwood National Park
Once you arrive at Redwood National Park, prepare for awe-inspiring hikes among ancient trees.
Top Trails
– Tall Trees Grove: A moderate hike leading you to some of the tallest trees on Earth.
– Prairie Creek Trail: An easy loop that showcases stunning coastal redwoods.
Best Views in the Park
– Fern Canyon: A lush canyon with ferns lining the walls.
– Damnation Creek Trail: This trail descends to beautiful tide pools and ocean views.
This road trip combines scenic drives, delicious food, and breathtaking nature. Whether you choose the fast route or the scenic one, each mile brings new sights and experiences. Pack your bags, grab your friends or family, and hit the road for an unforgettable weekend adventure!
image credit Ryan Resatka