7 days itinerary in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California, United States

9:00 - 12:00

Begin your adventure amidst the towering redwoods of Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Marvel at the ancient, majestic trees and capture their beauty through your lens. The park offers numerous trails that invite you to explore its diverse ecosystems.

Tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water. Early morning light provides excellent photography opportunities, highlighting the mystical ambiance of the forest.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 16:00

After lunch, visit Founders Grove, known for its colossal trees and the famous Founders Tree. It's a place where you can truly feel the power and tranquility of nature. Don't miss the Dyerville Giant, once one of the tallest trees in the park.

Tips: The grove has a self-guided nature trail that is flat and easy to walk. It's perfect for capturing serene forest scenes and the intricate details of the redwood ecosystem.

16:30 - 18:30

Conclude your day with a visit to the Rockefeller Loop, part of the larger Avenue of the Giants. This loop offers some of the most picturesque views of the park, with ample opportunities for photography amidst the towering redwoods.

Tips: The late afternoon light filters beautifully through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere for photography. Keep an eye out for wildlife as well, as the park is home to many species.

19:00 - 20:00

9:00 - 11:00

Start your day at the northern entrance of the Avenue of the Giants. This renowned scenic drive offers a spectacular introduction to the towering redwoods. It's a photographer's paradise, with early morning light casting mystical shadows through the trees.

Tips: Early mornings are less crowded, providing a serene experience. Keep your camera ready for the soft morning light that enhances the natural beauty of the redwoods.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 15:00

After lunch, head to Agate Beach for a relaxing afternoon. This hidden gem is perfect for beachcombing and photography, with its unique agates and breathtaking coastal views.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces. The best time to search for agates is after high tide, as the ocean leaves behind a fresh assortment of stones.

15:30 - 16:30

Conclude your day's adventure with a visit to the Shrine Drive Thru Tree. This iconic redwood offers a unique experience and fantastic photo opportunity as you drive through or simply admire its grandeur.

Tips: The area around the tree provides great spots for additional photos. Be respectful of nature and follow all guidelines when visiting.

17:00 - 18:00

10:00 - 12:00

Begin your exploration at the Humboldt Redwoods State Park Visitor Center. Dive into the history and ecology of the park through its exhibits. It's a great opportunity to learn about the area's wildlife and conservation efforts, enhancing your photography journey with context and depth.

Tips: Check out the park's event calendar for any special talks or guided tours happening during your visit. The visitor center is also the perfect place to get recommendations for trails that are particularly scenic or offer unique photographic opportunities.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 17:00

After lunch, head to Bull Creek Flats Trailhead for an immersive hike through lush undergrowth and towering redwoods. This trail offers serene beauty and a quiet atmosphere, perfect for capturing the essence of the redwoods through your lens.

Tips: Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the creek, as it's a good spot to see birds and possibly deer in their natural habitat. The light filtering through the canopy in the afternoon provides excellent lighting conditions for photography.

17:30 - 18:30

9:00 - 11:00

Begin your day with a peaceful stroll through Chandler Grove. This serene location offers a unique atmosphere, surrounded by the gentle giants of the redwoods. It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts to capture the early morning light filtering through the trees.

Tips: The morning hours offer soft, diffused light which is perfect for photography. Take your time to explore and find unique angles to capture the essence of the redwoods.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 15:00

After lunch, visit the Big Trees Day-use Area for a chance to see some of Humboldt's most impressive redwoods. The area is perfect for leisurely walks or picnics under the canopy of these ancient trees. It's another fantastic location for photographers looking to add to their collection of nature shots.

Tips: Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the redwoods. The area is spacious and offers a variety of perspectives for photography. Look out for the informational plaques that provide insights into the history and ecology of the redwoods.

15:30 - 17:30

Conclude your day with a hike along the Drury-Chaney Trail. This path takes you through a lush understory, surrounded by towering redwoods, offering a tranquil end to your day. The trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for all levels of hikers and photographers seeking to capture the beauty of the forest.

Tips: The late afternoon light creates a magical atmosphere in the forest, ideal for photography. Keep an eye out for the diverse plant life along the trail, adding variety to your nature shots.

18:00 - 19:00

9:00 - 12:00

Start your day at Riverside Park, a serene location by the water. This park offers a peaceful setting for morning photography, capturing the early light as it dances on the river's surface. It's an excellent spot for landscape and wildlife photography.

Tips: Arrive early to enjoy the quiet of the morning and the best lighting conditions. Keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife that are more active during these hours. The park's natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for reflective photography.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 17:00

After lunch, explore The Grieg-French-Bell Grove, known for its stunning redwoods and tranquil atmosphere. This grove is less traveled, offering a more intimate experience with nature. It's a fantastic place for photography, with the sun filtering through the tall trees creating a magical scene.

Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes as you explore the grove. The area is quieter, allowing for uninterrupted photography sessions. Take your time to find unique compositions that capture the essence of the redwoods.

17:30 - 18:30

9:00 - 12:00

Dedicate your morning to capturing the grandeur of the Founders Tree, a towering testament to the ancient beauty of Humboldt Redwoods State Park. This iconic tree offers photographers a unique opportunity to photograph one of the tallest trees in the world in the soft morning light.

Tips: Since the Founders Tree is accessible 24 hours, arriving early allows you to enjoy and photograph the tree with fewer people around. The morning light provides a natural filter that enhances the majestic qualities of the tree. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture its immense size.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 15:00