Redwood Canyon Trail

Overview

Redwood Canyon is home to one of the largest giant sequoia groves anywhere, and it feels it—wide trunks, hushed canyon air, and long stretches without seeing another hiker. This area is a network of loop options ranging from moderate to big-day territory. The headline route most hikers come for is the combined Redwood Mountain Loop, roughly 10 miles total, weaving together two classics: Sugar Bowl and the Hart Tree & Fallen Goliath loops.

Route Options

• Hart Tree & Fallen Goliath Loop (about 7.3 miles total, ~1,100 feet of gain): Think historic logging sites, Hart Meadow, a hollow “Tunnel Tree,” a spur to the namesake Hart Tree, a small waterfall, and the massive Fallen Goliath log.
• Sugar Bowl Loop (about 6.5 miles total, ~1,480 feet of gain): Climb a ridge with views toward Big Baldy, then drop into a dense “grove within a grove” packed with young and mature sequoias.
• Redwood Mountain Loop (about 10 miles total): Combine the two loops for a long day tour of the canyon. It’s also suitable as an overnight if you have a wilderness permit.

Expect real ups and downs on any option—nothing technical, but the climbs add up. Surfaces range from duffy sequoia tread to dusty, sometimes rocky stretches, with seasonal creek crossings.

What You’ll See

This is old-growth sequoia country, and you’ll walk through living fire history. The 2021 KNP Complex Fire burned much of the grove; you’ll encounter open patches with regenerating sequoia seedlings, snag-studded slopes, and healthy giants that weathered the burn. Spring brings wildflowers along the creeks and ridges, summer delivers dappled shade and warm temps, and fall dogwoods can light up the canyon. Keep an eye out for bear sign and—oddly—cattle that sometimes wander in from adjacent lands.

Current Conditions and Closures

Post-fire impacts are ongoing. The trailhead has been posted closed “until further notice” at times, and some segments may close as conditions change. Expect blowdowns, occasional confusing junctions, and evolving signage. Before you commit to the drive, check current park alerts and be ready to adjust plans.

Access and Parking

The trailhead sits about 2 miles down an unpaved, sometimes rutted road off Highway 180. Go slow; a high-clearance vehicle is helpful after storms. There’s parking, vault toilets, and bear boxes at the trailhead. The road is not accessible by vehicle in winter.

Best Time to Hike

Late spring through fall is the sweet spot. Spring delivers cooler temps and wildflowers; early summer offers longer days with some heat; fall has crisp mornings and colorful dogwoods with mellow light for photography. Aim for early starts or weekdays for maximum solitude. Winter access to the trailhead by vehicle is closed.

Tips, Hazards, and Regulations

• Navigation: Carry a map or GPS—junctions and spurs can be easy to miss, especially in burned areas.
• Terrain: Expect sustained climbs/descents, loose tread in spots, and occasional creek crossings.
• Wildlife and bugs: Bears are around; store food properly and be bear aware. Flies and mosquitoes can be present.
• Permits: Day hikes don’t require permits; overnights do.
• Pets: No dogs on trails in these parks.

If you want a more developed big-tree experience with easier access and clearer wayfinding, consider one of the park’s more built-up sequoia areas; for solitude and an instructive look at fire ecology, Redwood Canyon is the move.