4-Day Northern California Road Trip from Berkeley: Chandelier Tree to Coastal Adventures

Day 1: Chandelier Tree & Eureka

Berkeley to Leggett and Eureka, California on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Depart Berkeley

Start your scenic Northern California road trip heading north towards Leggett.
USD0, 1h0m

9:30am

Chandelier Tree Visit

Visit the famous Chandelier Tree, drive through this magnificent 276-foot tall coast redwood. It's a unique photo opportunity and iconic Northern California attraction.
USD5 parking donation, 0h45m

10:30am

Drive to Eureka

Continue driving north along US-101 towards Eureka, passing through charming small towns and redwood scenery.
USD0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Lost Coast Brewery, Eureka

Stop in Eureka for lunch at this local brewery offering excellent craft beers and hearty American fare with fresh local ingredients. Open noon to 9pm.
USD25 per person, 1h0m

1:45pm

Old Town Eureka Walk

Explore Old Town Eureka’s historic Victorian buildings, galleries, and shops, a perfect relaxed stroll after lunch.
USD0, 1h30m

3:30pm

Check-in to lodging in Eureka

Settle into a cozy hotel or Airbnb in Eureka to rest before tomorrow's adventure in the redwoods.
USD150 average, Flex

6:30pm

Dinner at Sea Grill

Enjoy fresh local seafood with views of Humboldt Bay. Sea Grill is known for chilled coastal ambiance and sustainable seafood. Open 5pm to 9pm.
USD40 per person, 1h30m
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Day 2: Redwood Park Adventure

Crescent City, Northern California on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the Green House Café, Eureka

Start the day with a delicious farm-to-table breakfast featuring local organic ingredients. Opens at 7am.
USD15 per person, 1h0m

9:15am

Drive to Redwood National and State Parks

Scenic 1.5-hour drive north to Crescent City, gateway to some of the tallest and oldest redwoods in the world.
USD0, 1h30m

11:00am

Lady Bird Johnson Trail hike

A gentle 1-mile loop trail through lush coastal forest and fern canopy offering tranquil immersion in nature.
USD0, 1h0m

12:15pm

Picnic lunch at Enderts Beach

Pack a picnic and relax by the secluded sandy beach right in the park, perfect for a chill adventure with ocean views.
USD20 for picnic supplies, 1h0m

1:30pm

Drive and explore Fern Canyon

Visit the stunning Fern Canyon, famed for its walls covered in lush ferns – a magical spot that inspired scenes from ‘Jurassic Park 2’. Guided walk recommended.
USD0, 1h30m

3:30pm

Check-in lodging Crescent City

Rest and recharge in a comfortable coastal lodge or inn in Crescent City.
USD140 average, Flex

6:30pm

Dinner at Lighthouse Grill

Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties in a laid-back atmosphere with ocean views. Open until 8:30pm.
USD35 per person, 1h30m
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Day 3: Coastal Towns & Relax

Trinidad and Arcata, California on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sea Air Delicatessen, Crescent City

Grab locally roasted coffee and artisanal breakfast sandwiches before heading south.
USD12 per person, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Trinidad

Short 40-minute coastal drive to charming Trinidad, a quaint town with beautiful beaches.
USD0, 0h40m

10:00am

Trinidad State Beach Walk

Enjoy a peaceful morning stroll on Trinidad’s beautiful coastline, famous for rocky outcrops and tide pools.
USD0, 1h0m

11:15am

Drive to Arcata

Head inland 15 minutes to Arcata, a lively university town with an artsy vibe.
USD0, 0h15m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Alibi

Casual eatery in Arcata with great sandwiches and craft beer, perfect for a laid-back midday meal.
USD20 per person, 1h0m

1:15pm

Explore Arcata Plaza and local shops

Walk around Arcata’s historic central plaza, enjoy local stores, galleries, and the vibrant street scene.
USD0, 1h30m

3:00pm

Return drive to Eureka for overnight

Drive back to Eureka (20 minutes) and rest for your journey home.
USD0, 0h20m

6:30pm

Dinner at Café Nooner, Eureka

End your day with Pacific Northwest-inspired comfort food highlighting seasonal local produce. Open until 9pm.
USD30 per person, 1h30m
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Day 4: Avenue of Giants Return

Return to Berkeley via Avenue of the Giants on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Old Town Coffee & Chocolates, Eureka

Enjoy excellent coffee and pastries to fuel your scenic return drive.
USD12 per person, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive south to Avenue of the Giants

Spend the morning driving this scenic 31-mile route through ancient redwoods; stop to hike short nature trails and marvel at the massive trees.
USD0, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Dipsea Café, Phillipsville

Enjoy fresh, locally sourced dishes in this cozy café known for sandwiches and salads. Open 8am to 3pm.
USD20 per person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Drive back to Berkeley

Head home along US-101 and I-80, reflecting on a relaxing and scenic Northern California adventure.
USD0, 4h0m
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