Redwood Park

Redwood Park is a true emerald in the crown of the city of Arcata. This picturesque natural site serves as the gateway to the famous Arcata Community Forest, which became the first municipal forest in the state of USA, California. The park is renowned for its majestic redwoods—sequoias that create a magical canopy of needles, sheltering travelers from the sun and wind.

Occupying a significant area, the park harmoniously combines untouched wilderness with well-maintained recreation zones. Here you will find not only ancient forest stands but also modern amenities: equipped picnic areas, a children's playground, and a network of well-kept trails leading deep into the thick forest. This place is perfect for both solitary nature contemplation and an active family weekend.

A high rating of 4.8 based on hundreds of reviews confirms that the park is one of the most beloved attractions in the region. Thanks to ecosystem preservation efforts, the woodland is recognized as "exemplary," making a walk here not only pleasant but also educational. Redwood Park is a rare opportunity to touch the history of the planet literally without leaving the city limits.

To inquire about hosting events or reserving picnic areas in Redwood Park, you can use the following contact information:

In Redwood Park, everyone will find something to enjoy. The main draw for visitors is, of course, hiking. An extensive network of trails weaves through the dense redwood forest, offering routes for both easy strolls and intensive treks. You can walk under the canopies of giant sequoias, breathing in the purest forest air and observing local flora and fauna. These same trails are popular among mountain bikers and horseback riders.

For families with children, the park offers an excellent playground, and numerous picnic areas allow for an al fresco lunch surrounded by majestic trees. Photographers will appreciate the play of light filtering through the branches and the misty morning landscapes that give the forest a mystical and mysterious look. During the summer season, educational tours are sometimes held, where you can learn many interesting facts about the local ecosystem and the centuries-old trees.

If you are looking for peace and solitude, head for the more remote trails where you can only hear the singing of birds and the rustle of needles. Redwood Park is a place where you can briefly forget the hustle and bustle of Arcata and fully immerse yourself in contemplative relaxation, restoring your strength in the shade of ancient giants.

Redwood Park is conveniently located in the eastern part of the city, right next to the Humboldt State University campus. If you are traveling by car, the most convenient route is via State Highway 101, taking the turn onto E. Park Road. The drive from downtown Arcata takes no more than 5–10 minutes, and free visitor parking is provided on-site.

For those who prefer public transport, the Arcata Transit System (ACT) buses stop nearby. From the university, you can walk to the park entrance in 20–30 minutes, enjoying the wooded paths along the way. Cyclists will also appreciate the well-developed network of paths leading directly from the city to the forest.

If you are arriving from other regions, the nearest airport, Arcata-Eureka (ACV), is approximately 15–20 minutes away by taxi or rental car. The drive north from San Francisco along the scenic Highway 101 takes about 5 hours, offering stunning views of the California coast along the way.

The history of these lands is rooted deep in the past, long before the first European settlers arrived. The territory where Redwood Park is located today was traditionally used by the indigenous Wiyot people. The forests served as a source of sustenance and spiritual strength for them, with their settlements located near Humboldt Bay.

The modern chapter of the park's history began in the mid-20th century. On May 17, 1955, the forest tract adjacent to the park was officially dedicated as the first municipal forest in California. This was a bold decision by the Arcata authorities to preserve the ecosystem for future generations, combining the goals of forest management, watershed protection, and public recreation.

In 1979, city residents secured "multiple-use" status for the forest, which helped create the unique atmosphere we see today. Thanks to these efforts, the park was awarded the title of "Model Forest" by the Forest Guild. Today, Redwood Park is an important link in California's chain of protected areas, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving ancient giants in their natural habitat.

To leisurely walk the main trails and soak in the atmosphere of the ancient forest, most visitors need between 2 and 4 hours. This is plenty of time to explore the lower routes, visit the playground, and have a small picnic in the shade of the giant trees.

If your goal is serious hiking or a detailed exploration of the Arcata Community Forest, which borders the park, it is worth setting aside half a day or even a full day. The variety of trails and changing landscape allow you to create a route of any difficulty, immersing yourself in the silence and majesty of nature away from the city noise.

The park is welcomingly open to visitors daily from 06:00 to 18:00 year-round, including weekends and holidays. This schedule allows you to catch both the magical morning light breaking through the fog and the cozy pre-sunset hours.

Please note that operating hours may vary slightly depending on the season or extreme weather conditions. Before planning your visit, it is recommended to check the official City of Arcata website to ensure the information is up-to-date and to confirm the accessibility of specific trails.

After a stroll among the majestic redwoods, it is worth spending time exploring other interesting spots in the city. The park's surroundings offer a harmonious blend of historic architecture, cozy cafes, and local breweries, allowing you to fully experience the atmosphere of Northern California.