Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

Overview

A classic 1.5-mile loop, this grove offers a gentle, family-friendly walk through upland redwoods around 1,000–1,200 feet. You’ll start in second-growth near the parking area, cross a hikers’ bridge, and quickly transition into ancient, never-logged old-growth. Expect towering trunks, fire scars, a lush ferny understory, and a dedication area honoring Lady Bird Johnson about a half-mile in. Benches appear along the way, and there’s a downloadable interpretive tour in the park app. Plan 45–90 minutes so you can slow down, look up, and soak in the quiet.

Getting There & Parking

The trailhead sits 3 miles up Bald Hills Road above Orick. The road is narrow and winding with limited pullouts and shared with heavy trucks—drive cautiously. RVs, buses, and trailers aren’t advised and aren’t permitted to park at the trailhead. The lot is small and typically fills 11am–4pm in summer; parking along Bald Hills Road is unsafe and prohibited. Vault toilets are by the lot. Cell service is spotty—download maps or the audio tour before you go.

Trail Experience

This is a mellow loop with mostly gentle grades and a few short, steeper bits. The first half follows an old roadbed that once linked to Bald Hills Road; keep an eye out for numbered stops if you’re following the interpretive tour. In early June, rhododendrons often bloom, adding color to the towering greens and foggy light that this ridge catches so well. Many hikers like going counter-clockwise for smoother flow and photo angles. Pets aren’t allowed on park trails.

Accessibility

Although the path is generally wide and even, the sloped hikers’ bridge near the start means the route is not officially wheelchair accessible. Surfaces range from packed dirt to wood; benches provide rest spots. Expect slick footing after rain and occasional winter snow at this elevation.

Best Time to Hike

Go early (before 10am) or later (after 4pm) to beat crowds and snag parking. Morning is often cool and misty, with gorgeous soft light through the canopy; midday brings the most people. Spring brings lush greens; early June is best for rhododendron blossoms. Year-round, bring layers—drip from fog can make the grove cool even on sunny days.

Add-Ons & Alternatives

For a bigger outing, the Berry Glen Trail climbs from near US-101 up to the grove for a strenuous 5.7-mile day with about 1,300 feet of gain. If you’re chasing the densest cathedral-like redwoods, some visitors prefer nearby standouts like Trillium Falls or the famous groves in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Still, this loop remains a top, easy introduction to old-growth redwoods—and it’s deservedly popular.