Walking through the groves of majestic trees in Redwood National Park, I feel as though I’ve been transported to a different planet. Surrounded by towering Redwoods, the size of 30 story buildings and 2000 years old, the scenery is hard to comprehend. While the scene is otherworldly, it’s also strangely familiar. Where have I seen this before? For a good portion of the day this question festered. I knew the scenery was familiar, but I couldn’t remember from where. Walking along the Lady Bird Johnson Trail, I came across a fallen Redwood, and the answer suddenly became clear. This was the Forest Moon of Endor, setting of the classic Star Wars film Return of the Jedi. Sure enough, a quick Google search confirmed that Return of the Jedi was in fact filmed in Redwood National and State Parks. I was a little shocked that this piece of trivia hadn’t been included in any of the articles I had read about the park. But stumbling upon the realization while hiking, made the day so much more enjoyable. I was slightly annoyed that it took me so long to figure out. Upon self reflection, the mental image of Princess Leia sitting on a fallen tree with an Ewok, was admittedly deeper in the archives than Princess Leia in the gold bikini, but I digress.
Designated a National Park by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968, Redwood National and State Parks covers 132,000 acres in Northwest California, straddling the coast just South of the Oregon border, and contains half of the remaining old-growth Redwood forests in California. The park is somewhat remote, situated 7 hours North of San Francisco and 8 hours South of Portland. But for those willing to make the drive, the reward is well worth it. The park draws roughly 500,000 visitors per year, putting it in the bottom 3rd of attendance for National Parks. For comparison, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee draws over 12 million visitors per year. The remoteness and lack of crowds, was one of my favorite things about the park. I was able to walk through the forest for hours, uninterrupted by the sight or sound of any other people, allowing for an immersive and relaxing experience. The park’s scenery is so incredible, it’s hard to find words that do it justice. Inscribed on a marker, situated along a trail bearing her name, these words from Lady Bird Johnson may be the best endorsement for the park.
“One of the most unforgettable memories of the past years is walking through the Redwoods last November – seeing the lovely shafts of light filtering through the trees so high above, feeling the majesty and silence of that forest, and watching a salmon rise in one of those swift streams – all our problems seemed to fall into perspective and I think every one of us walked out more serene and happier.”
Lady Bird Johnson – July 30, 1969
Certainly well said, and hopefully the nail in the coffin, convincing you of the need to visit Redwood National Park.
Now that I’ve talked you into visiting, here are two of my top recommendations for visiting the park.
- Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail – Not going to be at the top of some people’s lists, but I give it extra credit for being family friendly. Being part of a big family, I know that sometimes getting there can be half the battle. This trail is easily accessible, located directly off Highway 101, with parking right next to the trailhead. If you are looking for an option to see Redwood National Park with your kids this is a great option. https://www.nps.gov/places/lbjtrailhead.htm
- Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway – 10 mile long scenic parkway, cutting right through acres of old-growth Redwood forest. Very easy to access from Highway 101 and provides a stunning view of towering Redwoods. The National Park Service actually ranks this as the can’t miss activity if you are pressed for time.
I spent 5 or 6 hours exploring the park, which in retrospect felt like an appropriate amount of time for a day trip. You won’t get to see everything, but with several hours you can soak in the majesty of the Redwoods, and come away with an appreciation for one of our great National Parks.
So pretty!!
Pictures really don’t do it justice. One of those things you need to see in person to fully appreciate.
My Dad’s company was called Dupray Redwood Sales, so you can see a pretty strong family connection to the area. Some of my greatest childhood memories came from going with my Dad to see his vendors in places like Eureka, Arcata, and Crescent City. Our trips always included time spent in the protected groves and they are, indeed, spectacular. As you noted, you have to be pretty intentional to see those remarkable groves, but should be on the “must see” list of anyone who wants to visit one of America’s most beautiful national parks.
I didn’t know about the moon of Endor connection, but I can see it now!