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Visitors wishing to admire the abundant wildlife in the unique Redwoods ecosystem will find this trail a great escape.


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Map Key

3.5

Miles

5.6

KM

Point to Point

639' 195 m

High

48' 15 m

Low

679' 207 m

Up

668' 204 m

Down

7%

Avg Grade (4°)

36%

Max Grade (20°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Views · Wildlife

Description

If you're seeking to find some of the park's full time residents, this trail is the perfect way to do so! Meandering through secluded redwood forests away from the bustle of the main visitor center, this trail offers hikers the opportunity to see some of the shy residents of the park.

This trail begins at the Skunk Cabbage parking area, where there are plenty of amenities, including bathrooms and a picnic area. From here, the trail begins a leisurely journey through the North Coast's signature redwood forests. Fog often persists during the summer months, maintaining cooler temperatures. After about 1.5 miles of easy hiking, there will be a steep ~.5 mile hill climb. Though the grades increase, this climb is not overly strenuous, and hikers will enjoy the challenge of ascending over the ridge.

On the other side, hikers will make a short descent to the beach, where this trail ends. From here, it's possible to pick up the Coastal Trail, if a longer outing is desired. Once you've enjoyed the waters of the Pacific Ocean, head back the way that you came.

Flora & Fauna

A whole bevy of critters can be seen on this trail, so keep and eye out for Banana Slugs, giant salamanders, and red tree voles. You'll also be able to enjoy a particularly diverse forest, complete with redwood, Sitka spruce, and Douglas fir.

Contacts

Land Manager: NPS - Redwood

Shared By:

Mikhaila Redovian

Trail Ratings

  3.3 from 6 votes

#24646

Overall
  3.3 from 6 votes
5 Star
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4 Star
50%
3 Star
33%
2 Star
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1 Star
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Trail Rankings

#2,502

in California

#24,646

Overall
2 Views Last Month
581 Since Dec 22, 2016
Intermediate Intermediate

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Photos

Winter light falling through the trees
Aug 8, 2017 near Westhav…, CA
Dim winter light through mossy trees.
Aug 8, 2017 near Westhav…, CA
Ocean view from where Skunk Cabbage Trail reaches the beach
Aug 8, 2017 near Westhav…, CA
Overlook at the 2.5 mile mark.
Apr 8, 2022 near Westhav…, CA
Skunk Cabbage Trail has springs that drain into Skunk Cabbage Creek
Apr 8, 2022 near Westhav…, CA

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