Budget-Friendly 5-Day Adventure in Redwoods National Park, August 18-22, 2025

Day 1: Arrival & Introduction

Orick, California, USA on August 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Palm Grove Cafe

Start your day with an affordable and hearty breakfast featuring classic American dishes in Orick to fuel your explorations.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park - Trails

Explore the accessible and breathtaking trails like the James Irvine Trail to see old-growth redwoods and Roosevelt elk in their natural habitat.
USD0 (State Park Day Use Fee), 3h

12:30pm

Lunch Picnic at Gold Bluffs Beach

Enjoy a budget picnic at the picturesque Gold Bluffs Beach; buy sandwiches and snacks beforehand in Orick.
USD10, 1h

2:00pm

Prairie Creek Visitor Center

Visit the Visitor Center to learn about the park's ecology and conservation efforts through interactive exhibits. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Fern Canyon Hike

Walk the stunning Fern Canyon trail, a must-see for its unique vertical walls covered with lush ferns, which served as a filming location for Jurassic Park 2.
USD0 (Included with park entry), 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Elk Meadow Cabins & Cafe

Relax with a budget-friendly dinner featuring locally sourced options just north of Orick, perfect after a full day of hiking.
USD20, 1h
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Day 2: Grove Exploration

Redwoods National Park, California, USA on August 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast - Coffee & Pastry at Lost Coast Brewery

Enjoy a light and inexpensive breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and pastries to prepare for your grove exploration.
USD12, 45m

8:30am

Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

Hike this iconic 1.5-mile loop to witness breathtaking views of towering old-growth redwoods and serene forest scenery.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Lunch at local deli in Klamath

Grab an affordable sandwich or salad at a local deli in Klamath before continuing your exploration of northern park areas.
USD15, 1h

12:30pm

Kuchel Visitor Center

Stop by the Kuchel Visitor Center near the coast for park info, maps, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h

1:30pm

Big Tree Trail

Meander along the easy Big Tree Trail to spot some of the largest trees in the park, including the famous Big Tree itself.
Free, 1.5h

3:30pm

Scenic Drive - Howland Hill Road

Drive this unpaved scenic route for panoramic views of the forest; ideal in dry conditions and with a rental car.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Sea Grill in Crescent City

Enjoy a reasonably priced dinner with fresh local seafood and delightful coastal ambiance in Crescent City.
USD25, 1h
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Day 3: Coastal & Cultural Sights

Trinidad, California, USA on August 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Lighthouse Grill

Grab a budget breakfast with ocean views, offering hearty options ideal for an active day ahead.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Trinidad Head Trail

Explore this relatively easy loop trail with panoramic views of the Pacific coastline, often including whale sightings during migration season.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Humboldt Bay Cafe

Enjoy an affordable meal featuring fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
USD18, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Trinidad Museum

Learn about the local history and Native American culture of the area; the museum offers free admission with donations appreciated. Open 10am-4pm.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Little River State Beach

Relax at this serene beach spot, perfect for tide-pooling and enjoying ocean breezes without spending a dime.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Sea Breeze Restaurant

Treat yourself to budget-conscious classic American comfort food in Trinidad to wrap up your coastal day.
USD20, 1h
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Day 4: More Trails & Scenic Drives

Redwoods National Park, California, USA on August 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Lighthouse Coffee Bar

Fuel up with freshly brewed coffee and a simple pastry for an active day ahead.
USD10, 45m

8:30am

Stout Grove Trail

Walk the short and popular trail winding through majestic and dense redwoods; perfect for morning light photography.
Free, 1.5h

10:30am

Davison Road Loop

Drive and hike parts of this serene forested loop to experience less crowded groves and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch in Orick Market

Pick from affordable deli options or light meals at Orick Market for a quick rest and recharge.
USD12, 1h

2:00pm

Tall Trees Grove

Reserve a free permit online ahead of time to hike to this secluded grove with some of the tallest trees in the world. Permits required and timed entry.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bigfoot Restaurant & Bar

Relax and enjoy an affordable dinner with a casual vibe and diverse menu in Orick.
USD18, 1h
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Day 5: Departure Day & Last Views

Redwoods National Park, California, USA on August 22, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at local bakery in Orick

Grab quick and inexpensive pastries and coffee before heading out for your final moments in the park.
USD8, 30m

8:00am

Drive to Enderts Beach

Take a scenic morning drive to this often quiet beach for a peaceful walk among coastal redwoods and ocean views.
Free, 2h

10:30am

Last Visit at the Kuchel Visitor Center

Stop by again for any last park information, souvenirs, or to take in the coastal sights one final time. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Crescent City Deli

Enjoy one last budget-friendly meal with fresh sandwiches and salads before departing the park region.
USD15, 1h

1:30pm

Departure

Head out on your chosen route home or next destination, filled with memories of the majestic redwoods.
N/A, N/A
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