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5-Day Redwood National Park Adventure: San Francisco to Eureka & Back

Viewed by 155 travelers

Day Day 1: Travel & Arrival

San Francisco, CA on July 17, 2025

8:00 am

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Start your day with delicious pastries and coffee at this renowned bakery in San Francisco.
$20, 1h 30m

9:30 am

Drive to Eureka

Begin the scenic approximately 5.5-hour drive via US-101 North, enjoying views of California’s coast and redwood forests along the way.
Fuel and snacks approximately $50, 5h 30m

3:00 pm

Arrive in Eureka & check-in

Settle into your hotel or Airbnb and unwind after the drive.
Varies per accommodation, 1h

7:00 pm

Dinner at restaurateur's choice

Enjoy local seafood at North Coast Fisheries or another Eureka favorite to experience regional cuisine.
$40, 1h 30m
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Day Day 2: Redwood Exploration

Eureka/Arcata Area on July 18, 2025

8:00 am

Breakfast at Old Town Espresso

Fuel up with locally roasted coffee and fresh pastries before your outdoor adventures.
$15, 45m

9:00 am

Visit Fern Canyon & Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Hike through Fern Canyon, famous for its lush ferns and towering canyon walls; then explore Prairie Creek’s scenic trails & elk viewing opportunities.
Park entry free, optional guided tour $20, 4h

1:00 pm

Lunch at the park visitor center or picnic

Enjoy a packed lunch or dine at nearby cafes such as The Freshwater Lodge with views of the forest.
$20, 1h

2:00 pm

Visit Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

Take a scenic walk among majestic old-growth redwoods with informative signs about the ecosystem.
Free, 2h

5:00 pm

Relax & explore Eureka downtown

Enjoy a leisurely evening strolling through historic Old Town, exploring shops and galleries.
Optional shopping/dinner budget $50, 2h
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Day Day 3: Redwood Parks & Wildlife

Eureka/Arcata Area on July 19, 2025

7:30 am

Breakfast at Morning's Edge Cafe

Start with hearty breakfast options featuring local ingredients.
$15, 1h

8:30 am

Explore Redwood National Park’s Tall Trees & Trillium Falls

Hike the Tall Trees Grove (requires permit) and visit Trillium Falls for stunning views of waterfalls amid ancient giants.
Park entry free, permit ~$10, 4h

1:00 pm

Lunch at local eatery

Sample fresh seafood or vegetarian options at a local spot like Lost Coast Cafe in Arcata.
$20, 1h

2:00 pm

Visit Arcata Community Forest

Enjoy a relaxing walk with multiple trails amid redwoods and firs, perfect for wildlife watching.
Free, 2h

5:00 pm

Evening at leisure

Optional: Attend a local event or browse shops in Eureka's historic district for souvenirs.
$30, 2h
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Day Day 4: Final Park Day & Leisure

Eureka/Arcata Area on July 20, 2025

8:00 am

Breakfast at Campbell's Coffee & Bakery

Enjoy locally roasted coffee along with fresh baked goods to fuel your day.
$15, 45m

9:00 am

Visit Redwood Sky Walk & Climbing Adventures

Experience the redwoods from a treetop vantage point with the Redwood Sky Walk canopy tour (check availability & open hours).
$35, 2h

11:30 am

Leisurely lunch and last-minute shopping

Enjoy a casual lunch at Brick & Fire Bistro or similar, then pick up souvenirs from local shops.
$30, 1.5h

1:00 pm

Start driving back to San Francisco

Begin the approximately 5.5-hour drive, allowing for scenic stops along the way.
Fuel and snacks $50, 5h 30m
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Day Day 5: Departure Day

San Francisco, CA on July 21, 2025

Morning

Fly out from San Francisco International Airport

Ensure timely arrival at the airport for your flight home, completing your redwoods adventure.
Airfare cost varies, Depart in the morning
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