Simpson-Reed Trail

This is an easy loop through an old-growth redwood grove in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Allow 30–60 minutes for about 0.8 mile around the complete loop, on a level, wheelchair-accessible path. It is a good choice when you want time beneath the redwoods without a long climb; the reward is the close-up forest and creek corridor, not an open viewpoint. Published loop estimates range from about 0.8 mile to 1 mile, so treat the distance as approximate.

The broad, aggregate-gravel path winds among redwoods and smaller hardwoods before reaching a lush stream corridor. Fallen trunks lie across the water; some have formed natural ledges and pools that support fish and insects. The route stays under the canopy, and traffic noise from nearby Highway 199 reportedly fades once you are inside the grove. Near the beginning and end, look for some of the area's largest redwoods, including a dark, broken-top tree near the end of the loop.

Moss and lichen coat hemlocks beneath the redwoods, with ferns, huckleberries and other plants on the forest floor. The damp shade also suits red-legged frogs and rough-skinned newts, which rely on moist habitat through the dry summer. Stay on the developed path: the small plants and forest floor are easily damaged. Interpretive panels along the way explain natural and cultural history, adding context to the grove rather than turning the walk into a simple tree count.

The Simpson-Reed loop connects with the optional half-mile Peterson Memorial Trail. That is a separate loop, not part of the distance above; follow the Simpson-Reed markers if you want the shorter walk. There is no dramatic payoff at a single endpoint, so take your time through the stream section and the groves rather than rushing to finish.

From U.S. 199, turn north onto Walker Road and continue about 0.1 mile to the marked trailhead on the right. The turn can be sudden and easy to miss. Parking is limited, and RVs and trailers cannot park there; a vault or composting toilet and interpretive panels are at the trailhead. Food and drinking water are not listed among the amenities, so plan ahead. The trail is listed as year-round with no reservation or separate activity fee, though a park entrance fee may apply. Pets are not allowed on park trails; service animals are welcome.