Explore the Magnificent Avenue of the Giants: Top 14 Essential Stops!

The Avenue of the Giants will be nothing like any other drive you’ve experienced before!

Situated within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, this driving route will lead you on an expedition through the forest, alongside some of the largest trees you’ve ever encountered, with each turn offering new stops for trails and natural marvels.

The Avenue of the Giants forms just a part of the much larger park, running for 31 miles. Even if you don’t have time to stop, plenty of redwoods can be seen from the curvy highway.

We traveled the Avenue of the Giants from south to north—and here’s everything you should see at each stop plus useful tips!

1. Franklin K. Lane Grove

The Franklin K. Lane Grove features a brief path encircling its boundary. Although the trees are comparatively modest in size compared to typical redwoods, they remain quite awe-inspiring!

2. The Governor William D. Stephens Loop Trail

Head a little farther north, and abruptly, you encounter what you’ve journeyed to witness: the giants.

This forest features the initial colossal trees, but the Governor William D. Stephens grove remains relatively uncrowded. An even pathway guides you through a circular route among these giants, allowing you to approach and admire their enormous bases closely.

3. Dry Creek Trailhead

If you’re looking for a path with minimal chances of encountering others along the Avenue of the Giants, consider taking the Dry Creek Trail.

You’re in store for an enjoyable stroll through the forest, over a winding path beside a steep-sided gorge, and alongside a tranquil brook. It’s perfect for stretching your legs as you encounter various inclines, towering trees, and patches of huckleberries.

4. The Landsdale Bar Swimming Hole

On a bright day, there’s nothing quite like immersing your feet into the chilly, clear water for a refreshing cool-down. The uneven rocks guide you towards the Eel River at the Landsdale Bar Swimming Hole.

There are numerous parking options available, along with level sections of gravelly shoreline that provide an ideal setting for a picnic before taking a dip.

5. Bolling Grove

Within this petite woodland, the redwood trees stand tall and are readily noticeable from the roadway.

This stop allows you to quickly hop out and snap some photos of those majestic giant sequoias. Since there’s no designated path, you can easily spend time examining the roots of these redwood trees and enjoy a quick bite at the nearby picnic areas.

6. Drive-Thru Tree at Shrine Road

Have you ever dreamed of driving through a tree? Now’s your opportunity!

The Shrine Drive Thru Tree, standing at approximately 3000 years old with a width of 21 feet, is truly remarkable even without taking into account that vehicles can actually pass through it.

A long time ago, a fire hollowed out the tree trunk, resulting in an arch formed entirely by nature itself.

NOTE:

No vans, trucks, or RVs are permitted here—as they simply won’t fit! Unfortunately, we couldn’t join in because Lucy is too large for the space.

7. Williams Grove Day-Use Area

One of the bigger spots for daytime activities within the park and near the Avenue of the Giants, this location offers amenities such as barbecue grills, picnic tables, restroom facilities, a section designated for groups, and convenient proximity to the river.

Others might call it an ideal location for a picnic, yet one could readily lose track of time throughout the entire day, relaxing under the canopy of trees and wading in the water.

8. GCA Grove of the Garden Club of America

Should your schedule permit just a handful of visits, ensure this location makes the cut. Spanning an impressive area of 8 square miles, the Garden Club of America Grove is quite extensive.

Several great hiking trails are available for exploration here, such as the Kent Mather Loop Trail which is less than a mile long. Additionally, there’s a picnic spot, ample parking, and entry to the river.

9. Gould Grove Nature Trailhead and Visitor Center

The Information Center features informative staff members, a compact garden brimming with local flora, an emporium for souvenirs and goods, along with a campsite area.

Right over the street, you’ll find the Gould Grove Nature Trail—a brief yet delightful hike through ancient woodland. This route features trees of all sizes, along with stunning ferns and sorrel. Its straightforward pathway makes it ideal for a quick stretch.

10. Founders Tree

The Founder’s Tree is among the most recognizable trees along the Avenue of the Giants and likely within the whole redwood forest ecosystem!

It is believed to be an astounding 3000 years old and served as one of the primary inspirations for founding the Save-the-Redwoods League.

You can be sure you’ll depart with wonder, since numerous towering trees stand in this forest. For an even more humbling experience, make your way to see the downed Dyerville Giant Tree.

11. Humboldt Redwoods State Park

At this juncture along the route, there is a minor diversion, yet it is highly advisable to veer off the main path to explore this section of the Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Many travelers bypass this location.

The

Large Forests Day Usage Zone

features numerous remarkable trees, including the Giant Tree and a Fallen Flatiron Tree.

The

Addie Johnson Trail

It’s quite impressive as it ascends from the redwoods and rises further into the highlands, transforming the woodland entirely.

Another option is the

Rockefeller Loop

Moreover, despite being off the beaten path, it stands as one of the most picturesque groves within the park, far removed from the bustling thoroughfare. The woods are shadowy and thickly packed, characterized by towering, church-like sequoias that command the landscape.

12. Chandler Grove

Explore the petite riverside copse of redwoods via a 0.4-mile trek amidst the titans. This spot is a much-frequented halt on the route, featuring ample and conspicuous parking alongside colossal arboreta.

The trees aren’t as large in this area compared to other sections of the park, yet the woodland remains gorgeous. Approaching the trail’s conclusion, keep an eye open for the small detour leading you into a breathtaking canyon.

13. Immortal Tree

Are you aware of how this tree received its name? Because it stubbornly refuses to perish! Believed to be approximately 1000 years old, throughout its eventful existence, it has endured lightning strikes, ax blows from loggers, a forest fire, and even a flood!

One could safely state that it has faced quite challenging times yet still manages to flourish and prosper.

Look upwards, and you might spot the little fish etched into the tree trunk marking the height of past floods, an axe left behind by those who attempted to cut it down, and signs of damage from a lightning strike.

14. Drury-Chaney Trail

Among the loveliest trails along the Avenue of the Giants is the 2.4-mile Drury-Chaney Loop Trail.

Fresh and shady, it feels as though you’ve entered an enchanting realm where a dense, soft sea of redwood sorrel blankets the ground akin to a lush carpet.

The latter part of the trek offers the most picturesque views, featuring the densest ferns, sorrel, and towering trees, so be sure to complete the entire journey.

Top Tips for Exploring the Avenue of The Giants

Below are some useful suggestions to make your visit more comfortable.

If your schedule is tight

—Our top picks among the stops were Garden Club, Founders Grove, and Chandler Grove.
You’ll be walking

This isn’t merely about driving! While the drive itself can be enjoyable, exploring the finest viewpoints requires some hiking. Fortunately, many of these trails are simple and brief!
The optimal period for visiting

It happens during early hours when the temperature is milder, and the sunlight isn’t intensely filtering through the foliage.
One day is plenty!

No worries, this place is quite straightforward to explore. You can cover everything in just one day; there’s no need for more time than that.

FAQ for The Giant Tree Route

Is the Avenue of the Giants accessible without cost?

Certainly, this drive has no cost attached!

What’s the best way to reach the Avenue of the Giants?

You’ll just take a detour from Highway 101 and follow it using Avenue of the Giants. Once you reach the end of this route, it will bring you back onto the highway.

What is the length of Avenue of the Giants?

It’s 30 miles long.

Where does the Avenue of the Giants begin and end?

It starts
here
and ends
here
.(or vice versa—it makes no difference). Make sure to pick up a brochure when you enter.)

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