For the purpose of simplicity, Redwoods south of the Klamath River are considered to be the Eureka Redwoods.
Redwood National and State Parks
Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center
If approaching the redwoods from the south (from Eureka), then stop at the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center, located in Orick, CA, just off US 101. The always helpful rangers will be able to assist you with sightseeing as well as obtaining any necessary permits for the more popular restrictive hike.
Interactive exhibits are available and the beach is right out back. More information.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Tall Trees Trail
One of the most popular sights in the Redwoods is the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail. And for the more adventurous, there is the Tall Trees Trail, which requires a free permit. For information (and a free permit), visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center which is located at the southern end of this Redwoods park, near where the lagoons start. They will be able to supply information on a large number of redwood hikes in the area.
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
There is absolutely no excuse for missing this. It is shorter, by mileage, than staying on US 101. It will take you longer, not because the speed is lower, but because of the views.
The Parkway’s two exits are at US 101 mile markers 753 and 765. The Prairie Creek Visitors Center is near the southern end of the park. Be sure to stop by Big Tree Wayside, which is tough to miss, since the road travels right by it. If ready for a hike, look for information to the 3.2 mile Prairie Creek Trail at the visitors center.
For those planning on extensive hiking, the Redwoods Hikes Trail Maps are highly recommended.
If wanting to extend the drive, the Coastal Drive is worthwhile. At the north, it starts just south of the Klamath River as route D7. If not in a hurry, stay on D7 and take the long way around Flint Ridge along the Klamath Basin and the Pacific. A stop at Lost Rock Boulders and High Bluff Overlook is worthwhile. If wanting to shorten the trip, skip this loop and turn from D7 onto the Coastal Drive. It is possible to backtrack a short distance to see High Bluff Overlook.
The southern end of the Coastal Drive ends on the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Humboldt Redwoods State Park is 32 miles south of Klamath and includes over 17,ooo acres of old-growth Redwoods and is 53,000 acres in total. Humboldt Redwoods State Park offers 100 miles of hiking, biking and riding trails. A downloadable version of trail maps is available.
For more information, download a brochure or a campground map.
Avenue of the Giants
Avenue of the Giants is a 31 mile road that mostly parallels US Highway 101. To this writer, the Avenue of the Giants is less attractive and more commercial than the Newton B. Drury Scenic Highway to the north. However, for those looking for redwoods plus restaurants, motels and gift shops, mixed in with the redwoods, this is not to be missed. Download a brochure and a map.
The south end of the Avenue is at US 101 mile marker 645. The north end is at US 101 mile marker 674. There are a few entrances / exits from the Avenue in between.