There was something that appealed to me about driving down a highway named “Avenue of the Giants”. So, it became a “must see” for us when we explored California’s redwood country last fall. Redwood trees are the tallest living things on the planet, although the state’s Sequoia groves contain more massive (albeit it slightly shorter) trees. Many consider the Avenue of the Giants one of the finest drives through a forest anywhere on the planet.
Humboldt county has among the highest concentration of Redwood trees in the world, and it is through the heart of them that the “Avenue of the Giants” wanders. Groves of the oldest and tallest Redwood trees are in the area, including the largest uncut stands of redwoods in the world. Between the stands of redwood trees, you find a more “usual” forest.
(the picturesque Eel River parallels the highway)
The Avenue of the Giants is a 31-mile stretch of highway that parallels Highway 101, between Exits 645 and 672. It passes through more than fifty thousand acres of redwood groves. It’s a significantly slower drive than the freeway and as such offers an excellent alternative for those who wish to linger and explore. The road takes you along the Eel River, small sleepy towns, and campgrounds. There are lots of hiking trails around if you want to walk through these forests. You’ll want to stop often along the route to taken in the majesty of the trees and beauty of the place.
In with the grooves of redwoods, you’ll see some trees with massive burls….
The forest also shows signs of slow decay and renewal. These ancient redwood trees are known for their rot resistance….
(My wife standing at the root base of a fallen giant)
One of the most interesting stops along the highway, just south of Weott, is the Humboldt Redwoods Visitor Center. This is a nice place to walk, picnic, and explore the exhibits.
(The park visitor center is to the left, old redwoods to the right)
Below are some of the exhibits that caught my eye:
The property had a few interesting stands of mushrooms. Those in the top photos were massive, possibly oyster mushrooms.
We’ll discuss hiking in the Redwoods in a future post. But the drive was beautiful, easy, relaxing, and most enjoyable. Highly recommended!
