Prairie Creek State Park: Redwood Forest Hiking Tour

Explore the captivating wonder of Prairie Creek State Park‘s ancient redwood forest on a guided hiking tour. Over three hours, traverse a scenic 2-mile trail and witness the towering majesty of trees that have stood for centuries. Along the way, keep an eye out for local wildlife and learn about the park’s rich history from a knowledgeable guide. This family-friendly adventure offers a chance to learn about the beauty of California’s stunning natural landscapes.

Key Points

• A guided 3-hour hike through an ancient redwood forest at Prairie Creek State Park, featuring some of the tallest trees in the world.
• Opportunities to spot wildlife like Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, and salmon during the hike.
• Discovery of famous old-growth redwoods, including the 1,685-year-old Iluvatar, highlighted in National Geographic.
• Accessible and family-friendly tour suitable for small groups of up to 7 participants.
• Cancellation allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with no upfront payment required.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Redwood Forest Hiking Tour takes place at Prairie Creek State Park, offering a 3-hour guided hike through the ancient redwood forest.

Priced at $99.99 per person, the tour accommodates a small group of up to 7 participants. The family-friendly hike is accessible to disabled persons, and participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Visitors can reserve their spot without upfront payment, paying later. The English-language tour allows guests to enjoy the towering trees, encounter local wildlife, and learn about the ecosystem from a knowledgeable local guide.

Hiking Experience

The guided 2-mile hike through the ancient redwood forests of Prairie Creek State Park allows visitors to encounter some of the world’s tallest trees, reaching over 300 feet in height.

Along the trail, hikers may spot Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer roaming the lush landscape. The tranquil creek supports redwoods and native salmon spawning beds.

Visitors will also discover unmarked, famous old-growth redwoods found in the last 30 years, including the 1,685-year-old Iluvatar featured in National Geographic.

The Atlas Grove boasts more redwoods over 300 feet than any other grove on the tour.

Exploring the Ancient Redwoods

As visitors embark on the guided 2-mile hike through the ancient redwood forests of Prairie Creek State Park, they’ll be awestruck by the sheer scale and grandeur of these towering trees.

Reaching heights over 300 feet, the redwoods are some of the world’s tallest. Hikers will encounter the famous old-growth Iluvatar, a 1,685-year-old redwood featured in National Geographic, and explore the Atlas Grove, which has more redwoods over 300 feet than any other grove.

Along the way, they may spot wildlife like Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer, and observe the tranquil creek that supports the redwoods and native salmon spawning beds.

Wildlife Encounters

What wildlife might one encounter along the redwood forest hiking tour? Hikers may spot the majestic Roosevelt elk or the nimble black-tailed deer grazing among the ancient giants. The tranquil creek supports a spawning ground for native salmon, whose presence attracts a variety of birds and other wildlife. Participants will have opportunities to observe these creatures in their natural habitat.

| Species | Description | Habitat |

| — | — | — |

| Roosevelt Elk | Largest land mammal in the region | Forests and grasslands |

| Black-tailed Deer | Agile, with distinctive black-tipped tails | Woodlands and meadows |

| Salmon | Anadromous fish, returning to spawn | Cool, clean creeks and streams |

| Birds | Diverse species drawn to the ecosystem | Throughout the forest |

More Great Tours Nearby

Noteworthy Trees

Beyond the abundant wildlife, the Redwood Forest Hiking Tour showcases some of the most remarkable trees in the world.

Featured is the 1,685-year-old Iluvatar, a colossal redwood tree that was recently discovered and highlighted in National Geographic. The Atlas Grove also boasts more redwoods over 300 feet high than any other grove.

Plus, the tour takes visitors to see:

1. Ancient redwoods over 300 feet tall, some of the tallest trees on the planet.

2. Newly discovered old-growth redwoods found in the last 30 years.

3. The famous Iluvatar, an awe-inspiring 1,685-year-old tree.

Accessibility and Amenities

The Redwood Forest Hiking Tour is designed to be family-friendly and accessible to visitors of all abilities.

The flat terrain allows for a leisurely pace, making it suitable for small children. Guests can enjoy snack breaks while soaking in the beauty of the ancient redwood forest.

The local guide enhances the experience by providing insightful information about the ecosystem and its history. The tour is both informative and adaptable, catering to the needs of the group.

Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outing for everyone.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Where does the Redwood Forest Hiking Tour meet? The tour meets at the picnic tables outside the Prairie Creek Visitor Center.

Here’s what you need to know about the meeting point and logistics:

1. Arrive at the designated meeting location at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to allow for check-in and introductions.

2. The tour guide will be waiting for the group with a sign or banner to easily identify them.

3. Alcohol and drugs aren’t permitted on the tour, so please plan accordingly.

Following these simple guidelines will ensure a smooth start to your Redwood Forest adventure.

Customer Feedback

Reviewers have universally praised the Redwood Forest Hiking Tour, awarding it a perfect 5/5 rating based on a single insightful review.

Highlighting the guide’s exceptional communication and adaptability, the reviewer praised the informative nature of the tour and the guide’s patience.

The feedback emphasizes the tour’s appeal, noting it as an ideal family-friendly experience that allows for a leisurely pace and opportunities to soak in the beauty of the ancient redwood forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?

Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on the hike. The tour description states that only participants are permitted, and alcohol and drugs are prohibited. For the safety and enjoyment of all, it’s best to leave pets at home.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There’s no minimum age requirement, as the tour is family-friendly. Children of all ages are welcome to join the hike, which features accessible terrain and opportunities for breaks to accommodate younger participants.

Is Food and Water Provided During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide food or water, but there are opportunities for snack breaks. Participants should bring their own refreshments to enjoy while soaking in the beauty of the ancient redwood forest during the guided hike.

Is the Trail Wheelchair-Accessible?

The trail is accessible to disabled persons, with flat terrain that allows for a leisurely pace. The tour is family-friendly, making it suitable for those using wheelchairs or other mobility aids.

Can I Take Photographs During the Hike?

Yes, guests are encouraged to take photographs during the hike. The tour guide will provide tips on capturing the best shots of the towering redwoods and other natural wonders along the trail.

The Sum Up

The Prairie Creek State Park redwood forest hiking tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to take in ancient natural beauty. Over 3 hours, guests traverse a 2-mile trail, witnessing towering 300-foot redwoods, including the renowned 1,685-year-old Iluvatar. With the chance to spot Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer, it’s an accessible, family-friendly adventure perfect for nature enthusiasts.

You can check availability for your dates here: