Detour #284: The Giants of the Redwood Highway, California, USA
Driving through towering ancient forests, Jamie Hearne finds inspiration in the sheer scale of nature.
There are numerous places on Earth that can evoke the Overview Effect – a term originally used to describe the emotions astronauts feel when they first see Earth from space. These feelings are somewhat complex: the sense of insignificance can be both humbling and overwhelming. Whatever the effect on you, one thing is certain – driving along the Redwood Highway will leave you with a profound respect for the immense beauty of the natural world.
The Pacific Northwest is a region of North America that begins on the west coast of Canada, stretches through Washington and Oregon, and ends in northern California. Its coastline is rugged and remote in places, with phenomenal rock formations peppering the shores and long, sandy beaches extending as far as the eye can see. Step off the sand, however, and you’ll find yourself in the depths of a cool, verdant forest. The dense tree canopies and foliage seem to muffle the sound of crashing waves, suddenly in another world. Towering trees carpeted with moss rise above, their branches draped in lichen. The temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest are uniquely atmospheric, and nowhere is this more true than in California.
The Redwood Highway forms part of the iconic Highway 101, meandering its way through some of the most pristine forests I’ve ever seen. What’s more, these forests are home to the world’s tallest trees – the majestic coastal Redwoods. They are truly a sight to behold, and the Redwood Highway offers a front-row seat to some of the most staggering examples. A few short detours from the highway lead onto narrow roads, where trees wider than your vehicle seem to engulf the tarmac on either side. If you’re there in the evening, golden light filters through the canopies, bringing the forest to life and revealing their breathtaking splendour. Dust from the road lingers in the still air, and the sun’s rays pierce through it, creating an almost ethereal, godly atmosphere.
Driving from north to south, you’ll first take a short detour along Howland Hill Road, winding alongside Mill Creek. Be sure to stop at Stout Grove, Grove of Titans, and Boy Scout Tree – each offering a unique glimpse of the majestic Redwoods. From there, rejoin the Redwood Highway briefly before entering the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, a must-see stretch of road. As you leave the state parks that make up Redwood National Park, you’ll head toward Humboldt Redwoods State Park and the Avenue of the Giants, another scenic route that parallels the Redwood Highway. This road is dotted with incredible stops, including iconic drive-through trees (depending on your vehicle size). My favourite spot was ‘Big Trees,’ where you can marvel at ‘Tall Tree’ and ‘Giant Tree’—two impressive specimens of these ancient giants.
The tallest tree in the world, known as Hyperion, stands at an astonishing height of approximately 380 feet (116 meters). Estimated to be between 700 and 800 years old, this ancient giant is a true marvel of nature. To protect it from potential harm, its exact location is kept secret, hidden among the hundreds of other towering trees that protrude from the forest floor.
Exploring the majestic forests of the Pacific Northwest and travelling the iconic Redwood Highway offers a journey like no other. From the towering coastal Redwoods to the serene beauty of hidden groves and scenic byways, this region reminds us of the power and resilience of nature. These ancient giants not only inspire awe but also serve as a vital reminder of our responsibility to protect and cherish the natural world. Whether it’s the golden light filtering through the canopies or the quiet majesty of trees like Hyperion, this is a place where the magic of the natural world is palpable – leaving an indelible mark on all who visit.
Words & Photography James Hearne Instagram
ROADBOOK
CLASS: TREEMENDOUS ROAD TRIP
NAME: REDWOOD HIGHWAY
ROUTE: Crescent City TO Cloverdale, California
COUNTRY: USA
Distance: 290 Miles
Driving through towering ancient forests, Jamie Hearne finds inspiration in the sheer scale of nature.