The best traffic-free bike rides in Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park offers a selection of touring cycling routes designed to minimize traffic exposure. Our guide features 5 such routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, allowing you to explore the majestic redwoods and diverse landscapes with peace of mind.

Yes, the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway offers a unique car-free experience. From October to May, on the first Saturday of each month, this 10-11.4-mile paved road is closed to motorized vehicles, providing a serene environment to cycle through towering old-growth redwoods in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

The best time for touring cycling in Redwood National Park is generally during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. Summer offers warmer temperatures but can be busier. Winter can bring rain, but also offers unique car-free opportunities on the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.

The no-traffic touring routes in Redwood National Park offer varied terrain. Many routes utilize rehabilitated logging roads, providing a unique way to explore ancient redwood groves. You'll find mostly paved sections, some with moderate elevation gain, and others that are more challenging with significant climbs, such as parts of Bald Hills Road. Expect a mix of forest paths and potential coastal views.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Lost Man Trail loop from Redwood Creek Trailhead Parking is a difficult route covering over 33 km with significant elevation gain. This route can be combined with Bald Hills Road for an even longer and more demanding ride.

Absolutely. While many routes delve deep into the redwood forests, sections of the Coastal Trail and other routes offer sweeping ocean views as they wind along the bluffs above the Pacific. You can experience the dramatic contrast between the ancient trees and the rugged coastline.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops for convenience. For example, the Hiouchi Visitor Center – Stout Memorial Grove loop from Redwood National and State Parks offers a moderate 23 km ride, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Another option is the Streelow Creek Trail loop from Espa Lagoon.

Many routes pass by or near iconic natural attractions. You can cycle past the awe-inspiring Stout Memorial Grove, known for its colossal redwoods, or explore areas close to the Grove of Titans. The park is also home to diverse ecosystems, including 40 miles of rugged coastline and emerald-green rivers like the Smith River.

Redwood National Park is rich in wildlife. While cycling, you have a good chance of spotting Roosevelt elk, especially in meadows like the Elk Meadow Day Use Area. Keep an eye out for other animals such as black bears, bobcats, and various bird species. Along coastal sections, you might even spot whales or seals.

Yes, Redwood National Park offers family-friendly cycling options, particularly on designated car-free days on the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. This paved road has mostly flat sections, making it accessible for various fitness levels, including families with children. Always check specific trail regulations regarding e-bikes and age restrictions.

Parking is available at various trailheads and visitor centers throughout Redwood National Park. For routes like the Lost Man Trail loop, you can find parking at the Redwood Creek Trailhead. For the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, parking is available at its northern and southern ends. Always check specific route details for recommended parking locations.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Redwood National Park, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the unparalleled experience of cycling among the world's tallest trees, the tranquility of the car-free sections, and the stunning combination of ancient forests and dramatic coastal scenery.