Top 10 Must-Haves for Exploring the Redwood National Park

If you've ever dreamed of walking beneath towering giants, listening to the wind rustle through leaves older than your family tree, and breathing in air so fresh it feels medicinal, then Redwood National Park is your calling. Located in Northern California, this majestic stretch of wilderness is home to the tallest trees on Earth — the coast redwoods — and offers a spectacular blend of coastal vistas, dense forests, and rich wildlife encounters.

But before you hit the trails, preparation is key. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, the right gear can make the difference between a magical experience and a miserable one.

Here are the Top 10 Must-Haves for Exploring the Redwood National Park, complete with practical insights, tips, and why each item earns its place in your daypack.

1. Sturdy Hiking Boots

Tag: #hikingboots #trailgear #hikinggear

The Redwood trails, although breathtaking, can be rugged, muddy, and uneven — especially after rainfall. You'll encounter everything from soft forest paths to root-covered ridges and coastal bluffs.

Why You Need Them:

• Prevents slips on damp, mossy trails.

• Offers ankle support for steep ascents and descents.

• Durable against rough terrain and extended wear.

Pro Tip: Break in your boots before your trip to avoid blisters. Look for waterproof models with good grip.

2. Lightweight Rain Jacket

Tag: #rainjacket #weatherprotection #outdoorprotection

The redwoods thrive in a moist environment. That means mist, drizzle, and sudden rain showers are a regular occurrence — even in summer.

Why You Need It:

• Keeps you dry during unexpected weather changes.

• Prevents hypothermia when the temperature dips.

• Lightweight enough to stuff into your daypack without adding bulk.

Pro Tip: Choose a breathable rain jacket with zippered vents. It'll keep you dry without overheating during climbs.

3. Daypack

Tag: #daypack #travelbag #hikingessentials #travelgear

A reliable daypack is your portable basecamp. It's where you’ll store your snacks, maps, jacket, and everything else you’ll need.

Why You Need It:

• Hands-free storage keeps your essentials close.

• Padded shoulder straps reduce fatigue.

• Internal compartments help you stay organized.

Pro Tip: Go for a water-resistant pack with a hydration bladder compartment if you want to stay extra prepared.

4. Reusable Water Bottle

Tag: #waterbottle #hydration #travelgear

Redwood National Park doesn’t have water stations on every trail. That makes carrying your own water non-negotiable.

Why You Need It:

• Prevents dehydration on long hikes.

• Environmentally friendly alternative to disposable plastic.

• Keeps beverages cold (if insulated).

Pro Tip: Choose an insulated stainless-steel bottle that keeps your water cool for hours, even under the sun.

5. Binoculars

Tag: #binoculars #wildlifeviewing #nature

From Roosevelt elk and banana slugs to hawks, owls, and bald eagles, Redwood National Park is teeming with wildlife.

Why You Need Them:

• Enhances birdwatching and animal spotting from safe distances.

• Allows for treetop views where redwood wildlife hides.

• Adds a layer of immersive experience to your nature walk.

Pro Tip: Bring compact, lightweight binoculars with a neck strap. A magnification of 8x42 works great for forest environments.

6. Trail Map or GPS Device

Tag: #trailmap #hikingnavigation #outdooradventure

Cell reception is limited to non-existent in many areas of the park. Relying solely on your phone could get you lost.

Why You Need It:

• Keeps you oriented on lesser-known or poorly marked trails.

• Prevents getting lost in dense forest.

• Helps you identify nearby landmarks and distances.

Pro Tip: Download offline maps from apps like Gaia GPS or AllTrails. Always carry a paper map as a backup — technology can fail.

7. High-Energy Snacks

Tag: #snacks #hikingfuel #campingfood

You’re going to burn a lot of calories walking through ancient groves and climbing coastal ridges. Fuel your body with quality snacks.

Why You Need Them:

• Boosts energy and stamina on long hikes.

• Prevents fatigue and dizziness.

• Lightweight and easy to pack.

Best Options: Trail mix, protein bars, beef jerky, dried fruits, and nut butter pouches.

Pro Tip: Avoid overly sugary snacks—they’ll spike your energy and crash it quickly. Stick to slow-burning fuel.

8. Camera or Smartphone

Tag: #camera #naturephotography #nationalparks

Photos can’t capture the full scale of the redwoods — but they come pretty close. You’ll want to document every magical moment.

Why You Need It:

• Captures scenic views, wildlife, and unforgettable memories.

• Smartphones can double as GPS and flashlight.

• Photography helps you connect more deeply with your surroundings.

Pro Tip: Use wide-angle settings to capture full trees. Bring a portable charger if you're using your smartphone for photos and navigation.

9. Sunscreen

Tag: #sunscreen #UVprotection #skincare

Despite the dense canopy, many trails open into sunny meadows, coastal cliffs, and exposed overlooks.

Why You Need It:

• Protects your skin from harmful UV rays.

• Prevents sunburn during long hikes.

• Important even on cloudy days.

Pro Tip: Use a sweat-resistant SPF 50+ sunscreen. Don’t forget your neck, ears, and the back of your hands!

10. Insect Repellent

Tag: #insectrepellent #outdoorprotection #nature

Moist forests mean more bugs. While mosquitoes aren’t a huge issue, gnats and ticks can be annoying or even hazardous.

Why You Need It:

• Keeps bugs from biting or burrowing.

• Prevents distractions while hiking.

• Reduces risk of tick-borne illnesses.

Pro Tip: Choose a DEET-free, plant-based repellent if you’re sensitive to chemicals. Essential oils like citronella and eucalyptus work well for short outings.

Bonus Tips for Visiting Redwood National Park

Now that you’ve packed the top 10 essentials, here are a few extra travel-savvy tips for making the most of your Redwood experience:

🌲 Choose the Right Time to Visit

Late spring to early fall (May–October) offers the best mix of weather and trail accessibility. Winter is beautiful but wet and muddy.

🏕️ Know the Key Destinations

Don’t miss these spots:

• Lady Bird Johnson Grove – Short, accessible loop with old-growth redwoods.

• Tall Trees Grove – Requires a permit but leads to the tallest trees.

• Fern Canyon – A lush, movie-worthy gorge featured in Jurassic Park 2.

• Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park – Elk viewing and peaceful trails.

🐾 Practice Leave No Trace

Respect the environment:

• Pack out all trash.

• Stay on marked trails.

• Don’t carve into trees.

• Avoid feeding wildlife.

🚗 Plan for Long Drives

Redwood National Park spans over 130,000 acres. You'll need a car to reach various trailheads and scenic drives like the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway or Avenue of the Giants.

Final Thoughts

Exploring the ancient redwoods is more than a hike — it’s a journey through living history, a spiritual reset, and an adventure of a lifetime. By packing smartly with these 10 essential items, you'll be ready for anything this majestic park throws your way.

From misty groves and dramatic coastlines to elk encounters and silent trails, Redwood National Park is a rare gem that deserves your best planning and utmost respect.

So lace up your #hikingboots, fill up that #waterbottle, and lose yourself among the giants.

Tags

#hikingboots
#trailgear
#outdoors
#Redwoods
#rainjacket
#weatherprotection
#travelgear
#daypack
#hikinggear
#travelbag
#waterbottle
#hydration
#hikingessentials
#binoculars
#wildlifeviewing
#nature
#trailmap
#hikingnavigation
#outdooradventure
#snacks
#hikingfuel
#campingfood
#camera
#naturephotography
#nationalparks
#sunscreen
#UVprotection
#skincare
#insectrepellent
#outdoorprotection