Best Hiking Trails in Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Overview

The battle to save this ancient grove of redwoods began over 100 years ago by concerned citizens, resulting in California's first-ever state park and ensuring the protection of these 1,000 to 2,500 year old coastal redwoods for future generations. With 80 miles of trails and roads to explore, Big Basin Redwoods offers plenty of routes to get you up close and personal with some of the oldest and tallest trees in the world.

Getting Started

Make backcountry camping reservations in advance to make sure you get a spot. If you're unable to make a reservation, try the first-come, first-served campsite at Castle Rock Trail Camp not too far away (open year-round with 20 sites).

Enjoy the 5.5 mile Oceanview Summit Loop, or ramp up the difficulty on the 10.4 mile trail to Silver Falls. If you're looking for a bigger hiking adventure, connect Big Basin and Castle Rock State Park to the ocean on the 24.7 mile Skyline to the Sea Trail.

Keep an eye out for bobcats, birds, and deer, and make sure to keep food protected from snoopy raccoons. Food lockers are provided at campgrounds.

When to Go

Visit Big Basin year-round, but be prepared for crowds and mosquitoes in the summer months.

Permits

Vehicle day-use fees apply. Note that backcountry camping requires reservations at all trail camps, and no dispersed camping is allowed within the park.

Dog Info

Dogs are welcome on-leash at campgrounds, picnic areas, and on paved roads, but are not permitted on trails or fire roads. The only exception is the campground connector trail running from Sempervirens and Blooms Creek campgrounds to the park's headquarters. Those with pups may want to explore the verdant (though paved) 5-mile round-trip North Escape road, which is closed to most vehicle traffic.