For many visitors, a trip to the Bay Area wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and a redwood forest. But are there any redwood forests close to San Francisco that are easy to get to?
Fortunately, yes! There are several redwood forests that you can easily get to on a day trip from San Francisco. Within just a few hours’ drive of downtown, there are at least 15 places where you can see California’s giant redwoods up close. There are even places to see redwoods in San Francisco itself!
Let’s explore everything you need to know about redwoods in San Francisco, including where to see the biggest old-growth redwoods near San Francisco, and where you can drive through a giant redwood tree yourself!
Why Visit the Redwoods Near San Francisco?
It’s hard to describe the experience of walking through a giant redwood forest for the first time. After spending time among the giant redwoods, our guests have called them “majestic,” “tranquil,” “magical,” or just plain “awesome.”
Northern California’s coastal redwood trees inspired the naturalist John Muir, photographer Ansel Adams, U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt, and more to advocate for the protection of their natural habitat.
If you visit Northern California’s redwood forests, you’ll find massive trees that can grow as high as 400 feet and live for thousands of years. Before the last ice age, these trees could be found throughout Eurasia, North America, and New Zealand. Now, these trees are far more rare, but no less amazing.
Redwoods are not only the tallest, but the largest living things on the planet. Coastal redwoods are especially fast-growing trees, gaining 4-8 feet a year under ideal conditions. Due to their enormous size, mature redwoods gain more wood every year than saplings do, simply by growing larger around.
Redwoods have evolved incredible bark which protects them from natural threats. Up to 12 inches thick, their bark provides excellent insulation which allows the trees to survive forest fires. The tannins in their bark provide an additional defense which helps them fend off insects.
What Is the Difference Between Coastal Redwoods and Giant Sequoias?
Coastal redwoods and giant sequoias are very similar, but they have different characteristics and live in various habitats.
Coastal Redwoods (Sequoia Sempervirens) are the ocean-loving species. They can only be found in a narrow strip of land along the Pacific Ocean from Santa Cruz, California, up into southern Oregon. These giants can grow up to 375 feet tall, making them the tallest living organism on the planet.
Their slightly shorter cousin, the Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum), is bigger in terms of volume. The General Sherman tree in Sequoia National Park has been measured at 102 feet around and an estimated 2.7 million pounds! Giant sequoias grow naturally along the western slope of the Sierra Nevada mountains, between 5,000 and 7,000 feet above sea level.
It’s easier to see redwoods close to San Francisco, due to their coastal habitat, but the giant sequoia is worth seeing too! This article will include places to see both of California’s native redwood tree species near San Francisco.
15 Best Redwood Forests Close to San Francisco
If you’re looking for a redwood forest near San Francisco, you won’t have to travel far. All of the places we’ve chosen are reasonable day trips from San Francisco, except for the Humboldt and Kings Canyon groves. It would be better to plan an overnight stay near the trees in those parks.
Here are the 15 redwood forests closest to San Francisco, ordered by their distance from downtown SF:
Places to See Redwoods & Distances from San Francisco
- Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park 17 miles
- Muir Woods National Monument 19 miles*
- Golden Gate Park – Heroes Grove 4 miles
- Samuel P. Taylor State Park 31 miles
- Butano State Park 51 miles
- Portola Redwoods State Park 51 miles
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 72 miles
- Big Basin Redwoods State Park 76 miles
- Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve 77 miles
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park 150 miles
- Calaveras Big Trees State Park 162 miles
- Tuolumne Grove (Yosemite National Park) 175 miles*
- Mariposa Grove (Yosemite National Park) 210 miles
- Humboldt Redwoods State Park 217 miles
- Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Park 237 miles
1. Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park
Distance from SF: 17 miles
Why go? A rare coastal redwood forest just minutes from San Francisco.
This park containing a coastal redwood forest is one of the easiest to get to from San Francisco. It’s just outside the urban center of Oakland, California, and is a local favorite for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding.
The 1,830-acre park features nearly 40 miles of trails that traverse a varied landscape of second-growth redwoods, evergreens, and grasslands teeming with wildlife such as deer and golden eagles. The popular Stream Trail skirts Redwood Creek through lush redwood groves dotted with alien-like fungi.
Know before you go: This park is perfect for picnicking, so load up on food that you can spread out in one of the park’s scenic picnic areas.
2. Muir Woods National Monument
Distance from SF: 19 miles
Why go? Accessible, giant old-growth redwoods within an hour’s drive of San Francisco.
The story of the Muir Woods National Monument starts with conservationist William Kent, who bought 612 acres of old-growth redwood forest in Marin County in 1905, and made the space available to visitors. It quickly became one of San Francisco’s most popular attractions.
President Teddy Roosevelt shared Kent’s concern for the nation’s wildlands and agreed to have the federal government step in to protect the land. They agreed that the park should be named in honor of their longtime friend and fellow conservationist John Muir.
Muir Woods is home to the largest redwoods near San Francisco, as well as the largest crowds. You really can’t beat this park for its proximity to the city, but plan your trip ahead of time to avoid stress. You can get to Muir Woods from San Francisco by car, shuttle, bike, or on a guided tour.
Know before you go: If you drive to Muir Woods in a personal vehicle, you’ll need to get a parking reservation online at Go Muir Woods or by calling +1 800.410.2419. You’ll also need a reservation to ride the shuttle.
There’s no cellular service or Wi-Fi in the park, so download your parking reservation or shuttle ticket in advance.Consider taking public transportation or a bus tour, such as our Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour. A bus takes the place of dozens of cars and reduces traffic. The park service — and the trees — will thank you!
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3. Golden Gate Park – Heroes Grove
Distance from SF: 4 miles
Why go? The most convenient way to see redwoods in San Francisco.
If you don’t want to go far or your time is limited, you don’t even have to leave San Francisco to see redwoods! Heroes Grove within Golden Gate Park is a grove of 100-year-old coast redwoods in the heart of the city. This is an extremely easy way to see redwood trees in San Francisco.
While these trees are small relative to some in the parks further from the city, this is a great option if you can’t manage a trip further out. While there, check out all of the other amazing things to to do in Golden Gate Park.
Know before you go: The key to enjoying a visit to Golden Gate Park’s giant redwood grove is to limit your expectations. It’s conveniently close, and you’ll understand why these trees are so special, but you need to travel further out of the city to reach the huge, breathtaking trees you’ve seen in pictures.
4. Samuel P. Taylor State Park
Distance from SF: 31 miles
Why go? Lots of amenities for campers and RVs, including group campsites, cabins, picnic tables, public showers, fire pits, and dump stations.
Samuel P. Taylor was a wealthy entrepreneur who, in the mid-19th century, built a trackside resort property that he thought would appeal to travelers on the Sausalito-to-San Francisco railroad who were weary of “big city life”. The property passed into California state hands in the 1940s.
The 2,882-acre park is located in densely wooded countryside along steep rolling hills. There are beautiful coastal redwood groves and grasslands to explore, as well as a wide variety of flowers, oak, laurel, and Douglas fir.
Know before you go: “The Inkwells” are a series of pools along Lagunitas Creek that are great for swimming on hot days. Don’t dive or jump in — they’re not deep enough. From the park, take the Cross-Marin Trail east along the creek to the Inkwells Bridge. From there, it’s only a short scramble to the swimming hole.
5. Butano State Park
Distance from SF: 51 miles
Why go? A hidden gem with varied ecosystems to explore.
While the redwoods in Butano State Park are second- and third-growth, due to logging that continued until the 1950s, it’s still worth a visit. Its 40 miles of hiking trails and 39 camping sites offer plenty of recreation options.
Butano State Park has six distinct ecosystems, including the redwood and Douglas fir forest, alder woodland, coastal grassland, and chaparral. Explore each one to discover different native plants and wildlife like California newts, calypso orchids, coyotes, or even bobcats.
Know before you go: The Six Bridges Trail is an excellent 1.0-mile introduction to the park.
6. Portola Redwoods State Park
Distance from SF: 51 miles
Why go? A serene state park with 18 miles of trails near the bustle of Silicon Valley.
This lesser-known state park contains 2,800 acres of old-growth redwoods with an understory dominated by huckleberry. Hiking trails range from the quick 0.5-mile Old Tree Trail to the 13-mile journey along Bear Creek and Peter’s Loop — one of the best redwood hikes near San Francisco.
The Old Tree Trail leads to a redwood over 300 feet in height and over 1,000 years old. This makes for a great warm-up hike before further exploration along meandering creeks to waterfalls and, of course, more redwoods.
Know before you go: Drive carefully on the steep and narrow road down into the park. You can reserve one of Portola’s 50+ campground sites from late spring through mid-autumn.
7. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Distance from SF: 72 miles
Why go? An old-growth redwood forest near the sunny beaches of Santa Cruz.
Henry Cowell State Park is a 40-acre grove of old-growth redwoods that was spared the extensive logging of the 19th and 20th centuries. The self-guided Redwood Grove Trail weaves through one of the last remaining old-growth redwood forests and passes alongside the notable Fremont Tree. This tree has a massive, hollowed-out hole at the base of the trunk that’s perfect for group photos.
The park’s diverse landscape, which includes the sandy terrain of an ancient seafloor, is laced with 30 miles of trails that lead to other highlights, including an observation deck with sweeping views of Monterey Bay, and swimming holes along the mighty San Lorenzo River.
\Know before you go: Don’t miss the open-air Roaring Camp Railroad train between the Santa Cruz beach and mountains, which travels straight through Henry Cowell State Park. The 1-hour, one-way trip is a fun way for visitors of all ages to experience California’s nature and history.
8. Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Distance from SF: 76 miles
Why go? Big Basin’s ancient redwood trees, like the Mother of the Forest, inspired California’s first redwood conservation efforts.
Located in the Santa Cruz mountains, Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California’s oldest state park. It’s home to the largest continuous stand of coastal redwoods south of San Francisco, and is much less crowded than Muir Woods. You can spend the night in the middle of the redwood forest in one of their tent cabins.
Know before you go: There are over 75 miles of moderate to strenuous hikes through the redwood forest, one from the visitor’s center to Sempervirens Falls and another 12.5-mile segment called the Skyline-to-Sea trail, which ambles down to Waddell Beach.
9. Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Distance from SF: 77 miles
Why go? Jack Armstrong Park is conveniently located for an afternoon trip to visit Napa or Sonoma Valley.
Located in Sonoma County, the Armstrong redwood stand isn’t as impressive as some other locations, but it’s a great place to enjoy away from the crowds. Two miles of trails weave in and out of the forest and past three large trees. The Colonel Armstrong Tree is the largest, standing more than 250 feet tall.
Know before you go: Don’t forget to visit the Redwood Theater when you are there — a natural outdoor amphitheater that seats up to 400 people!
10. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Distance from SF: 150 miles
Why go? Stunning views of the Big Sur River, the lofty Santa Lucia Mountains, and the McWay Waterfall and Bixby Bridge on the Pacific Coast Highway.
The park’s biggest trees, like the Colonial Tree, are along a short, self-guided nature trail near the historic lodge. Another great day hike is the Ewoldsen Trail, which offers views of redwood groves and the Pacific Ocean.
Know before you go: Big Sur State Park has 189 campsites that allow you to pitch a tent amidst the massive trees and alongside the river. Reserve them early to ensure you don’t miss out!
11. Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Distance from SF: 162 miles
Why go? Calaveras Big Trees State Park is far enough from San Francisco that we’re getting into Giant Sequoia territory — but still close enough for a day trip. This is a beautiful place to see the giant sequoias year-round: in spring with blooming dogwoods, in summer with trails to the entire park open, in fall with the changing leaves, and in winter with annual snowfall.
Tourists began arriving at the Calaveras North Grove by 1853, shortly after the trees were discovered by Augustus T. Dowd. That makes the North Grove the longest continuously-operating tourist attraction in California, and possibly anywhere west of the Mississippi!
Calaveras Big Trees State Park is still one of the best places to see these trees for yourself, with two groves of giant sequoias. You’ll also find the Stanislaus River, Beaver Creek, ancient volcanic formations, and natural meadows.
There’s also a museum where you can learn about local wildlife and view two short educational videos that are enjoyable for all ages.
Know before you go: You can reserve a site at one of the two campgrounds or tent sites in advance. Summer is the busiest time of year, while spring offers showy white dogwood blossoms.
12. Tuolumne Grove in Yosemite Park
Distance from SF: 175 miles
Why go? An uncrowded and serene hike to a stand of old-growth sequoias and the Tunnel Tree (no longer living) located just outside the Big Flat Oak entry to Yosemite National Park.
Located on Tioga Road, just east of Crane Flat, the Tuolumne Grove has about two dozen mature giant sequoias. The Sequoias are visible at the end of a one-mile hike with 500 feet of elevation loss (the one-mile hike back to the parking lot gains altitude and can be challenging for some).
Know before you go: After entering Yosemite Park on Old Big Oak Flat Road, look for the “Entering the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias” sign. There’s no water available, so bring drinking water for everyone in your group who will be hiking this trail. Parking is also limited.
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13. Mariposa Grove in Yosemite Park
Distance from SF: 210 miles
Why go? Location of the Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Trees, and only an hour from Yosemite Valley.
Located near the South Entrance of Yosemite, the Mariposa Grove is the largest redwood grove in Yosemite National Park and is home to over 500 mature Giant Sequoias. During much of the year, a free shuttle is required for travel between the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and the Mariposa Grove.
There is a variety of easy to strenuous trails within the grove. Most visitors choose the 0.8-mile hike from the parking lot to the impressive 2,000-year-old Grizzly Giant and a few that you can walk through like the California Tunnel Tree.
Know before you go. Restrooms are located at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and areas within the grove. Drinking water is available only at the welcome plaza and arrival area, so plan accordingly. Check local road conditions since Highway 140 may be closed from November through April due to snow.
14. Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Distance from SF: 217 miles
Why go? Drive the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic highway that gives you an up-close experience with three giant coastal redwood trees without leaving your car (because you drive through them!).
Just over 200 miles north of San Francisco is Humboldt Redwoods State Park, home to the world’s largest remaining continuous old growth forest of coastal redwoods. Situated along a former stretch of the original Highway 101, the 32-mile Avenue of the Giants winds through dense redwood forests.
In the early 1900s, loggers came to what is now Humboldt Redwoods State Park to cut down ancient redwood trees for shingles. The Save the Redwoods League thought that was like “chopping up a grandfather clock for kindling” and ultimately preserved 53,000 acres of old-growth redwood forest – an area almost twice the size of San Francisco.
Assuming you get out of your car, Founder’s Grove is a fan favorite located at the end of the Avenue of the Giants. There are dozens of moss-covered giants all around the short trail and a collection of downed, hollow, and giant trees woven perfectly into other vegetation.
Other spectacles are the Dyerville Giant, a fallen, 362-foot redwood behemoth that you can inspect from head to toe, and the Travel Log, an RV-like vehicle carved from a redwood trunk and driven across the U.S. by conservationist Charles Kellogg.
Know before you go: Pick up an auto tour guide at the Visitor Center, which is crammed with fun historical objects and tales.
15. Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park
Distance from SF: 237 miles
Why go? The Generals (Grand and Sherman) are reason enough to visit, but this is also home to America’s deepest canyon — which is 0.5-miles deeper than the Grand Canyon.
This massive, million-acre Sierra Nevada playground is actually two separate parks administered as one by the National Parks Service. The giant trees here are not only big, but old: scientists estimate they are between 1,800 and 2,700 years old.
The Generals Highway connects the adjacent parks and two celebrated Giant Sequoia groves. The Majestic Mountain Loop is another way to experience the highlights of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, as well as Yosemite National Park.
General Sherman is the largest tree in the world. It’s located at the end of a long trail, but it’s worth the hike to see the massive tree up close. About 20 minutes away in Grant Grove, near Lodgepole Village, you’ll find the slightly smaller General Grant Tree.
The famous drive-through Tunnel Log cut through a fallen tree is in Giant Forest on Crescent Meadow Road.
Know before you go: Overnight options range from the luxurious Wuksachi Lodge to the rustic Bearpaw High Sierra Camp overlooking the Great Western Divide. Other activities include exploring caves and snowshoeing.
Are There Any Drive-Through Redwood Trees near San Francisco?
You may have seen pictures of giant redwood trees that you can drive a car through. At one time, carving these holes was a popular method to attract tourists to California. It’s probably not surprising that many of these trees, weakened by huge holes in their trunks, have since fallen.
But some are still standing and can be driven through to this day. You’ll have to drive a little further away from San Francisco to find these drive-through redwoods and sequoias. Here’s a complete list:
The Chandelier Tree (Leggett, CA – 182 miles)
The Chandelier Tree, a 276-foot-tall coastal redwood in Leggett, California, had a 6×6 foot hole carved through its base in the early 1930s. Its name comes from its unique limbs that resemble a chandelier and measure 4 to 7 feet in diameter. The Chandelier Tree grows within a private redwood forest, but you can pay a small fee to drive through.
The Shine Drive-Thru Tree (Myers Flat, CA – 221 miles)
The Shine Drive Thru Tree stands just south of Humboldt Redwoods State Park, about a 4-hour drive from San Francisco. It was actually hollowed out by lightning rather than humans. Although the snag is now supported by cables, it’s still standing and can still be driven through for a small fee.
Dead Giant Tunnel Tree (Yosemite National Park – 175 miles)
The Dead Giant in Tuolumne Grove in Yosemite National Park was the first standing sequoia to be tunneled in 1878. Although it was driven through for decades, it’s now part of the Tuolumne Grove trail system and can only be walked through. An hour-long loop path passes through the base of the former tree (now a burnt stump) and continues past a stand of other giant sequoias.
You can visit this location on Extranomical’s Giant Sequoias and Yosemite National Park 1-day tour or by booking a Yosemite private tour.
Fallen Tunnel Tree (Yosemite National Park – 210 miles)
In 1881, the Scribner brothers were paid $75 to carve a tunnel through the Wawona “Tunnel” tree in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in what’s now Yosemite National Park. The tunnel was big enough for people to drive their carriages — and later their cars — through. The 2,100-year-old tree fell in 1969 during a heavy snowstorm and is now known as the Fallen Tunnel Tree.
California Tunnel Tree (Yosemite National Park – 210 miles)
The California Tunnel Tree is a walk-through tree in Mariposa Grove that is still alive and standing today. This tree was tunneled in 1895 to allow passage for horse-drawn carriages. Find it along the Grizzly Giant Trail.
The Pioneer Cabin Tree (Calaveras Big Trees State Park – 162 miles)
The Pioneer Cabin Tree in Calaveras Big Trees State Park got its name from its distinctively hollow trunk formed by lightning strikes and a forest fire. It had small compartments reminiscent of a log cabin, a chimney, and a small backdoor opening. Unfortunately, local flooding, combined with the shallow root system of Giant Sequoia, caused it to fall on January 8, 2017.
Tunnel Log (Sequoia National Park – 262 miles)
For a slightly different experience, head to Tunnel Log at Sequoia National Park. Tunnel Log, along the Crescent Meadow Road, is a fallen tree with an arched section cut out for the road. The opening is 17 feet wide and 8 feet high, with a bypass for taller vehicles. In this same area, you can find Tharp’s Log, a fallen tree that a 19th-century cattleman turned into his home.
California Redwood FAQs
What is the best place to see redwoods near San Francisco?
The best place to see redwoods near San Francisco is Muir Woods, which has some of the largest trees close to San Francisco. If you’re short on time, you can see redwoods at Heroes Grove in Golden Gate Park, but these trees are smaller and less impressive.
If you have time, head to Portola Redwoods State Park, which has 18 miles of trails through old-growth redwood forest.
How far are the redwoods from San Francisco?
There are a few small groves of redwoods within San Francisco at Golden Gate Park, but the closest forests are at Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park and Muir Woods National Monument. These forests are both less than 20 miles from San Francisco, and you can get there in under an hour.
How old are the redwood trees in California?
Coastal redwoods have lifespans of up to 2,000 years, although some of the redwood groves near San Francisco are much younger due to logging.
To determine the age of a giant redwood tree, botanists study a thin layer of growing cells known as the “cambium” which covers the tree like a thimble, creating annual “rings.” The width of rings varies with thick ones forming in favorable seasons and thin rings during years of drought or cold.
Since it’s not possible to make accurate counts of the rings in living redwood trees, the age of most living redwoods is estimated by making comparisons with trees that have been cut down. For example, a wedge-shaped section of a giant sequoia on display in the Mariposa Grove Museum shows an actual ring count of 1,830 years. Since many sequoias can reach 30 feet in diameter, it is a near certainty that some of these trees are more than 3,000 years old.
How fast do California giant redwood trees grow?
Giant redwood trees can increase their thickness by 2 inches per year, while well-cared-for spouts can see 2-8 feet of upward growth. In 100 years, that would put a well-managed tree in competition with the largest wild trees (the General Grant tree is 41 feet in diameter).
When visiting Northern California, you may see shops selling small redwood sprouts. Will it take a lifetime (or more) to grow them? Don’t be discouraged! Coastal redwoods are one of the fastest-growing conifers in the world under the right conditions. However, in the wild, trees compete with one another and other species for nutrients, water, sun, and space — all dramatically increasing the time needed to reach maturity.
How tall are the redwood trees in California?
The tallest redwood trees in California are more than 350 feet high. The tallest known tree, Hyperion, was discovered in 2006 and is 380 feet tall. Other giants include Helios (375 feet), Icarus (371 feet) and Daedalus (363 feet). To protect these redwoods from vandals, their exact locations are kept secret.
There are other large tree species, including eucalyptus in Tasmania, yellow meranti in Borneo, and the Douglas fir of Oregon, that can reach as high as 300 feet. But the giant sequoia and coastal redwoods of California are the tallest tree species in the world.
How deep do redwood tree roots go?
Redwood tree roots only reach about six feet deep. They maintain stability by sending their roots out horizontally — sometimes over 100 feet! — rather than down. And they often grow in groves, intertwining their roots with neighbors, which allows them to stand strong in bad weather.
With such shallow roots, coastal redwoods have a unique approach to getting moisture from the air. Thanks to a method called “foliar intake,” they can suck up to 150 gallons of water a day from the coastal fog! Biologists know of only eight other plants that can do this, including sword ferns, huckleberries, and the broadleaf tanbark oaks, which also grow in California.
Planning Your Trip to the Redwoods near San Francisco
We hope this article helps you plan your visit to California to experience the magical redwood forests near San Francisco. Every one of the above parks provides something special to discover, and we recommend visiting more than one if you can!
Even if you’re planning only a one or two-day visit to state or national parks in the Bay Area, you can find a way to see California’s coastal redwoods or giant sequoias. The easiest and most assured way is to book a Muir Woods Tour or Yosemite tour with a local operating company like Extranomical Tours, so you can sit back and let your guide take you there. You’ll arrive relaxed and more informed about the places you’ll be visiting.
If you want to go farther afield and visit one of the 50+ redwood parks along the coast and in the mountains, here is the only complete list of California coast redwoods and giant sequoia public areas. Happy exploring!
Where are the drive-through redwood trees?
Have you heard of the redwood trees you can drive a car through? As hard as it is to believe, many of these giants are more than big enough to accommodate vehicle-sized holes, and at one time the carving of these holes was a popular method to attract tourists to California.
It is probably not surprising that many of these trees, weakened by huge holes in their trunks, have since fallen. But some are still standing and can be driven through to this day! We will start with those.
The Chandelier Tree (Leggett, CA – 182 miles)
The Chandelier Tree, a 276-foot tall coastal redwood tree in Leggett, California, had a 6X6 foot hole carved through its base in the early 1930s. Its name comes from its unique limbs that resemble a chandelier and measure from 4 to 7 ft in diameter.
The Chandelier Tree grows within a private redwood forest, but you can pay a small fee to drive through.
The Shine Drive-Thru Tree (Myers Flat, CA – 221 miles)
The Shine Drive Thru Tree stands just south of Humboldt Redwoods State Park, about a 4 hour drive from San Francisco. It was actually hollowed out by lightning rather than man. Although the snag is now supported by cables, it is still standing and can still be driven through for a small fee.
Dead Giant Tunnel Tree (Yosemite National Park – 175 miles)
The Dead Giant in Tuolumne Grove in Yosemite National Park was actually the first standing sequoia to be tunneled in 1878. While it was driven through for decades, it is now part of the Tuolumne Grove trail system and can only be walked through.
An hour-long loop path passes through the base of the former tree (now a burnt stump) and continues past a peaceful stand of other Giant Sequoias. You can visit this location on Extranomical Tours’ Giant Sequoias and Yosemite National Park 1-day tour or by booking a Yosemite private tour.
Fallen Tunnel Tree (Yosemite National Park – 210 miles)
In 1881, in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, near what is today Yosemite National Park, a tunnel was carved through the Wawona “Tunnel” tree. The Scribner brothers were paid $75 for the job!
The tunnel was big enough for people to drive their carriages — and later their cars — right through. The 2,100-year-old tree fell in 1969 during a heavy snowstorm and is now known as the Fallen Tunnel Tree.
California Tunnel Tree (Yosemite National Park – 210 miles)
Thankfully, there is a walk-through tree in Mariposa Grove that is still standing (and still alive!). The California Tunnel Tree was tunneled in 1895 to allow passage for horse-drawn carriages.. Find it along the Grizzly Giant Trail.
The Pioneer Cabin Tree (Calaveras Big Trees State Park – 162 miles)
The Pioneer Cabin Tree located in Calaveras Big Trees State Park got its name from its distinctively hollow trunk formed by lightning strikes and a forest fire. It had small compartments reminiscent of a log cabin, a chimney, and a small backdoor opening.
Unfortunately, local flooding, combined with the shallow root system of Giant Sequoia, caused it to fall on January 8, 2017.
Tunnel Log (Sequoia National Park – 262 miles)
For a slightly different experience, head to Tunnel Log at Sequoia National Park. Tunnel Log, along the Crescent Meadow Road, is a fallen tree with an arched section cut out for the road. The opening is 17 feet wide and 8 feet high, with a bypass for taller vehicles. In this same area, you can find Tharp’s Log, a fallen tree that a 19th-century cattleman turned into his home.
Planning your trip to the Redwoods
We hope this article helps you plan your visit to California to experience the magical redwood forests near San Francisco. Every one of the above parks provides something special to discover, and we recommend visiting more than one if you can!
Even if you’re planning only a one or two-day visit to state or national parks in the Bay Area, you can find a way to see California’s coastal redwoods or giant sequoias. The easiest and most assured way is to book a Muir Woods Tour or Yosemite tour with a local operating company like Extranomical Tours, so you can sit back and let your guide take you there. You’ll arrive relaxed and more informed about the places you’ll be visiting.
If you want to go farther afield and visit one of the 50+ redwood parks along the coast and in the mountains, here is the only complete list of California coast redwoods and giant sequoia public areas. Happy exploring!
Complete List of California Coast Redwoods & Giant Sequoias
- Admiral Standley State Recreation Area, Branscomb Rd, Branscomb, CA 95417
- Andrew Molera State Park, 45500 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920 (State Park)
- Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446 (State Natural Reserve)
- Austin Creek State Recreation, 17000 Armstrong Woods Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446
- Benbow Lake State Recreation Area, 445 Lake Benbow Dr, Garberville, CA 95542
- Big Basin Redwoods State Park, 21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
- Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, 3801 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515
- Butano State Park, 1500 Cloverdale Rd, Pescadero, CA 94060
- Calaveras Big Trees State Park, 1170 CA-4, Arnold, CA 95223
- Castle Rock State Park, 15451 CA-35, Los Gatos, CA 95033
- Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Crescent City, CA 95531
- The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park, Aptos Creek Rd, Aptos, CA 95003 (State Park)
- Fort Humboldt State Historic Park, 3431 Fort Ave, Eureka, CA 95503 (State Park)
- Fort Ross State Historic Park, 19005 Coast Hwy, Jenner, CA 95450 (State Park)
- Garrapata State Park, 34500 CA-1, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923 (State Park)
- Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park, 16949 CA-36, Carlotta, CA 95528 (State Park)
- Hendy Woods State Park, 18599 Philo Greenwood Rd, Philo, CA 9546 (State Park)
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA 95018 (State Park)
- Humboldt Lagoons State Park, 15336 US-101, Trinidad, CA 95570 (State Park)
- Humboldt Redwoods State Park, 17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571 (State Park)
- Jug Handle State Natural Reserve, CA-1, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 (State Natural Reserve)
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, 52801 California State Route 1, Big Sur, CA 93920 (State Park)
- Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Yorkville, CA 95494 (State Park)
- Jack London State Historic Park, 2400 London Ranch Rd, Glen Ellen, CA 9544 (State Park, California Historical Landmark, National Historic Landmark)
- Kings Canyon (National Park)
- Kruse Rhododendron State Natural Reserve, Cazadero, CA 95421 (State Natural Reserve)
- Limekiln State Park, 63025 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920 (State Park)
- Mailliard Redwoods State Natural Reserve, Yorkville, CA 95494 (State Natural Reserve)
- Mendocino Headlands State Park, Mendocino, CA 95460 (State Park)
- Mendocino Woodlands State Park, Little Lake Road, Mendocino (State Park)
- Montgomery Woods State Reserve, 15825 Orr Springs Rd, Ukiah, CA 95482 (State Natural Reserve)
- Mount Tamalpais State Park, 3801 Panoramic Hwy (State Park)
- Muir Woods National Monument, 1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941 (National Monument)
- Navarro River Redwoods State Park, Elk, CA 95432 (State Park)
- Patricks Point State Park, 4150 Patricks Point Dr, Trinidad, CA 95570 (State Park)
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur Rd, Big Sur, CA 93920 (State Park)
- Portola Redwoods State Park, Redwood Gate, 7867 Redwood Rd, Oakland, CA 94619 (State Park)
- Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, 127011 Newton B. Drury Scenic Pkwy, Orick, CA 95555 (State Park)
- Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 (Nature Preserve)
- Redwood Grove Nature Preserve, 482 University Ave, Los Altos, CA 94022 (City Park)
- Redwood National Park (1), 2415 Western Ave, Sacramento, CA 95815 (National Park)
- Redwood National Park (2), 3097 Redwood Ave, West Sacramento, CA 95691 (National Park)
- Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, 7867 Redwood Rd, Oakland, CA 94619 (Regional Park)
- Richardson Grove State Park, 1600 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542 (State Park)
- Roys Redwoods Preserve, Woodacre, CA 94973 (County Park)
- Russian Gulch State Park, CA-1, Mendocino, CA 95460 (State Park)
- Samuel P Taylor State Park, 8889 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Lagunitas, CA 94938 (State Park)
- Salt Point State Park, 25050 CA-1, Jenner, CA 95450 (State Park)
- Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Whitethorn, CA 95589 (State Park)
- Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve, 73201 US-101, Piercy, CA 95587 (State Natural Reserve)
- Sequoia National Park
- Sonoma Coast State Park, 3095 CA-1, Bodega Bay, CA 94923 (State Park)
- Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area, Leggett, CA 95585 (State Recreation Area)
- Trione-Annadel State Park, 6201 Channel Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95409 (State Park)
- Van Damme State Park, 8001 CA-1, Little River, CA 95456 (State Park)
- Transamerica Redwood Park, 600 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94111 (Corporate Pocket Park)
- Wilder Ranch State Park, 1401 Coast Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (State Park)
- Yosemite National Park: the Mariposa, Tuolumne and Merced Redwood Groves (National Park)
