If you’re driving the California coast you won’t want to miss out on Avenue of the Giants. Located off of Redwood Highway in northern California the is a scenic 32 mile stretch of highway though Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Best of all since the highway is parallel with Highway 101 you can choose to make it a short detour or long detour. If you have time of course I’d recommend driving more of the road.
My favorite part of the Avenue of the Giants was near the northern end. There is a section that goes over the highway so you have a higher vantage point to capture the road going through the redwoods with a telephoto lens.
While driving the road there are plenty of pull offs where you’ll see ferns and capture the road curving through the forest.
Avenue of the Giants History
The Avenue of the Giants is a scenic highway in northern California that is named after the coastal redwoods that tower over the route. The road is a former alignment of U.S. Route 101, and continues to be maintained as a state highway as State Route 254 (SR 254). Avenue of the Giants Parkway was dedicated in 1960.
In 1917 three men took a trip through the area and setup a movement to protect the area that is now Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
Avenue of the Giants Hikes
Sadly I didn’t get to do any hiking while visiting Avenue of the Giants but here are some of best hikes I found while researching the area.
- Founders Grove Nature Trail – easy, 0.5 mile loop
- Bull Creek Flats / Giant Tree – moderate, 3.5 miles
- California Federation Women’s Clubs Grove – easy, 0.6 mile out-and-back
- Drury-Chaney Loop Trail – easy, 2.1 mile loop
- Fleishmann Grove Trail – easy, 1.4 mile out-and-back
- Founders Grove Loop Trail – easy, 0.5 mile loop
- Gould Grove Nature Loop Trail – easy, 0.6 mile loop
Avenue of the Giants Pictures
Here are photos from Avenue of the Giants in California.
In conclusion, Avenue of the Giants is an awe-inspiring drive through the magnificent redwood forests of Northern California. With its towering trees, scenic vistas, and abundant wildlife, this route offers a truly immersive experience of nature’s grandeur.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this stunning drive is a must-visit destination.
