The park's diverse ecosystems support an abundance of wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, mountain lions, and numerous bird species. The streams and rivers host populations of salmon and steelhead trout, while the coastal areas are home to seals, sea lions, and various seabirds. The forest canopy provides habitat for threatened species like the northern spotted owl and marbled murrelet. Small mammals such as raccoons, bobcats, and various rodent species are common throughout the park. Marine mammals can often be spotted along the coastline during migration seasons.
The park is home to the iconic coastal redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), the world's tallest trees, reaching heights over 350 feet. The understory features a rich diversity of plant life, including Douglas fir, western hemlock, rhododendrons, ferns, and wildflowers. The forest floor is covered with redwood sorrel, wild ginger, and various moss species. Prairie areas support native grasses and wildflowers, while the coastal areas feature unique salt-tolerant plant communities. The park also contains significant stands of old-growth forest, preserving ancient ecosystems that have existed for centuries.
The park's landscape was shaped by tectonic activity, with the uplift of coastal mountains and the presence of several fault lines. The terrain consists of coastal plains, steep mountains, and river valleys carved by erosion. The predominant rock types include sandstone and shale from ancient marine deposits. Active geological processes continue to shape the landscape, with frequent landslides and erosion particularly evident along the coastline and river valleys. The rich soil composition, combined with adequate rainfall, creates ideal growing conditions for the coastal redwoods.
The area's human history spans thousands of years, beginning with Native American tribes like the Yurok, Tolowa, Karok, and Chilula. European exploration began in the 1800s, followed by extensive logging operations that threatened the ancient redwoods. Conservation efforts started in the early 1900s, led by the Save the Redwoods League. The park was officially established in 1968, combining three existing state parks. In 1994, the National Park Service and California State Parks agreed to jointly manage the parks, creating the current Redwood National and State Parks system.
The park's most remarkable features include Tall Trees Grove, home to some of the world's tallest trees, including Hyperion, the current record holder at 380.1 feet. Lady Bird Johnson Grove offers an accessible elevated walkway through an old-growth forest. Fern Canyon, featured in 'Jurassic Park,' showcases 50-foot walls covered in ferns. The park's 40 miles of pristine coastline includes dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and wide beaches. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, part of the park system, offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for Roosevelt elk. The extensive network of hiking trails, including the Coastal Trail and Redwood Creek Trail, provides diverse recreational opportunities for visitors.
Redwoods National Park experiences a mild, maritime climate characterized by cool, foggy summers and rainy winters. Average temperatures range from 40-65°F (4-18°C) year-round, with the coastal fog being crucial for the redwoods' survival. The region receives significant annual rainfall, typically between October and April, averaging 60-80 inches per year. Summer fog provides essential moisture during the dry season, creating the perfect microclimate for the ancient redwood forests to thrive.
USA
41.3040°, -124.0250°
October 2, 1968
562.51
Redwood National Park protects some of the world's tallest trees, the coast redwoods. The park also features vast prairies, oak woodlands, wild rivers, and 37 miles of pristine coastline. This diverse landscape provides critical habitat for threatened species including the northern spotted owl and Steller's sea lion.