Before get into details，here are some other recommendations near in this city:
Picture this: You're cruising down the scenic Oregon coast, waves crashing to your right, towering evergreens flanking your left. The salty sea breeze whips through your hair as you wind your way south from the hip city of Portland towards the majestic redwood forests of Northern California. This epic road trip from Portland to Redwood National Park offers the perfect blend of urban exploration and natural wonder.
Portland, with its quirky charm, farm-to-table cuisine, and abundance of breweries, serves as the ideal launching point for your adventure. Meanwhile, Redwood National Park beckons with its ancient groves of coastal redwoods - the tallest trees on Earth. Standing beneath these 300+ foot giants, you'll feel tiny yet awestruck by the raw power of nature.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable road trip from Portland to Redwood National Park. We'll cover the best routes, must-see attractions, where to stay, what to pack, and insider tips to make the most of your journey. So grab your keys, cue up your road trip playlist, and get ready for the drive of a lifetime!
The best time for a Portland to Redwood National Park road trip is late spring through early fall (May-October)[1]. This period offers the most stable weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Summer brings warm, dry days perfect for hiking, though crowds peak in July and August. Spring and fall see fewer visitors while still providing comfortable temperatures and lush scenery.
Winter trips are possible but come with challenges. The Oregon coast and redwood forests receive significant rainfall from November to April. Storms can cause road closures or hazardous driving conditions. However, winter also means dramatically crashing waves, migrating whales, and a mystical fog among the redwoods.
The drive from Portland to Redwood National Park covers about 350 miles and takes around 6.5 hours nonstop[2]. However, to truly experience the wonders along the way, we recommend allowing at least 3-5 days for your road trip. This gives you time to explore coastal towns, hike scenic trails, and fully immerse yourself in the redwood forests.
For those with more time, consider extending your trip to 7-10 days. This allows for a more leisurely pace and the chance to add detours to places like Crater Lake National Park or the Oregon Caves National Monument.
Driving: The most popular and flexible option is driving your own vehicle or a rental car. This gives you the freedom to set your own schedule and easily access scenic viewpoints and hiking trails. SUVs or vehicles with higher clearance are ideal for navigating some of the unpaved roads in Redwood National Park.
Flying + Car Rental: Fly into Portland International Airport (PDX) and rent a car for your journey south. Most major rental agencies have offices at or near the airport.
Guided Tours: For those who prefer to leave the planning and driving to others, several companies offer guided tours from Portland to the redwoods. These typically last 3-5 days and include transportation, accommodations, and some meals.
Amtrak: The Coast Starlight train runs from Portland to Klamath Falls, Oregon. From there, you'd need to rent a car to reach Redwood National Park. While scenic, this option is less direct and flexible than driving.
Before hitting the road, take some time to explore the vibrant city of Portland. Here are some top attractions to check out:
For accommodations, consider staying at the hip Jupiter Hotel in the East Burnside neighborhood or the luxurious Nines Hotel downtown[3].
As you leave Portland, take Highway 26 west to connect with the iconic Highway 101 along the coast. Here are some must-see stops as you head south:
Admire the dramatic 235-foot Haystack Rock jutting out of the Pacific. Explore tide pools teeming with colorful sea life at its base during low tide.
Tour the famous Tillamook Creamery and indulge in fresh cheese and ice cream. For a unique stay, book a night at the Sheltered Nook, offering cozy tiny homes[4].
Visit the bustling Historic Bayfront for fresh seafood and to watch sea lions lounging on the docks. Take a whale watching tour for a chance to spot migrating gray whales.
Marvel at the expansive coastal sand dunes, some towering up to 500 feet high. Try sandboarding or take a thrilling dune buggy ride.
Stroll along Bandon Beach to see the striking sea stacks and rock formations. Golf enthusiasts shouldn't miss the world-renowned Bandon Dunes Golf Resort.
As you cross into California, prepare to be awestruck by the towering coastal redwoods. Redwood National and State Parks encompass 139,000 acres of old-growth forests, pristine coastline, and diverse wildlife[5].
Practice Leave No Trace principles:
If you have extra time, consider these nearby attractions:
A road trip from Portland to Redwood National Park offers an unparalleled blend of urban culture, coastal beauty, and awe-inspiring natural wonders. From the hip streets of Portland to the misty redwood groves, every mile of this journey promises unforgettable experiences.
As you stand beneath the towering redwoods, feeling small yet connected to something greater, you'll understand why this trip belongs on every traveler's bucket list. The memories made along this epic West Coast adventure will last a lifetime.
So pack your bags, fuel up the car, and set out on the road trip of a lifetime from Portland to Redwood National Park. Adventure awaits!