Redwood NP, geografia, USA - Parki Narodowe

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Redwood
Redwood National and State Parks
National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
California State Parks
Department of Parks & Recreation
Visitor Guide
The oficial visitor guide
of Redwood National and State Parks
Fog-shrouded old-growth forest in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Coast redwoods gather up to one-third of their annual moisture from coastal fog.
The “Coast” in Coast Redwoods
Welcome to Redwood!
Most visitors know Redwood National and
State Parks as home to the world’s tallest
trees—icons that inspire visions of mist-
laden primeval forests bordering crystal-
clear streams. But did you know that the
parks also protect vast prairies, oak wood-
lands, and nearly 40 miles of wild coast-
line, all of which support a rich mosaic of
wildlife diversity and cultural traditions?
A cool breeze pours down from distAnt green hills
to the ocean. Last night’s high tide scoured the beach, erasing yes-
terday’s footprints. Long gray trunks—remnants of once colossal
trees—litter the sand, loated out from nearby creeks and tossed
unceremoniously upon the shore. Glancing east, ingers of fog
drift down the narrow canyons backlit by the sun rising over the
spired tips of towering coast redwoods.
It’s a typical spring morning on California’s North Coast. Here, a
delicate balance of ocean and earth is home to a forest of giants.
We invite you to explore each of these
varied habitats by hiking our extensive
trail network through ancient forests and
along tranquil rivers, beachcombing and
tidepooling, or simply parking on a high
coastal bluff to watch gray whales, os-
preys, and Steller sea lions. Our moderate
climate makes any season an excellent
time to visit: spring releases a lood of
wildlowers and migratory birds; summer
brings warm, dry weather and ranger-
guided activities; autumn offers sunshine-
illed days and lashes of fall color; and
winter invites hundreds of spawning
salmon to make the ultimate journey
home to their natal streams.
Coast redwoods (
Sequoia sempervirens
) require an enormous
amount of moisture to survive. A single old-growth coast red-
wood tree consumes up to 500 gallons of water each day! The
Paciic Ocean slakes this thirst: From October through April, a
high pressure area sitting atop the North Paciic drives a series of
winter storms onshore, dumping the majority of 60-80 inches of
annual rain over the region. In summer, the high pressure area mi-
grates north, taking with it the heavy clouds and storms of winter.
The California Current pulls warm surface water away from the
coast, bringing deeper and colder water from the ocean’s depths
close to shore. Where cold ocean and dry land meet, moisture is
created: a narrow band of fog seeps up deeply eroded river can-
yons, shrouding coast redwoods in life-sustaining moisture dur-
ing the drier summer. It is estimated that coast redwoods gather
up to a third of their annual moisture from this fog.
More than just a pretty forest: 37 miles of stunning Paciic Ocean coastline—
includng Hidden Beach, shown above—await visitors to Redwood National and
State Parks.
heat waves and short bursts of winter chill, the moderate, almost
Mediterranean climate permits redwoods to focus their energies
on growing to extraordinary heights, rather than in protecting
themselves from nature’s extremes. Humans, however, may be
creating new challenges. Recent studies suggest that rising global
temperatures are changing regional fog patterns. A long-term
decrease in fog would severely impact the coast redwoods’ ability
to outlast periods of extended drought.
We welcome you to this special place, and
hope you and your family’s experiences at
Redwood National and State Parks inspire
a lifetime of stewardship of our natural
and cultural treasures.
Just a few miles ofshore, the Gorda Plate pushes irmly against
the North American Plate, slowly slipping beneath its bigger
neighbor. Pushed skyward by the continuing collision of con-
tinents, the Coast Range traps this moist, cool air where coast
redwoods thrive. Deeply cut river valleys in these freshly raised
mountains supply the redwood forests with rich soil, lowing
water, and shelter from the most damaging storms.
While the awe-inspiring forests of Redwood National and State
Parks likely brought you here, 37 miles of dramatic, scenic coast-
line beckon you to see more than the trees. Whether backpacking
along an isolated beach or just enjoying a jaw-dropping panora-
ma, you’ll gain further appreciation for the coast as a nursery for
the world’s tallest living things. But you may also be compelled to
consider your role in ensuring similar experiences in this special
place for future generations. What’s good for the coast is good for
coast redwoods. After all, they grow only here for a reason.
Steve Chaney
Superintendent, National Park Service
These oceanic inluences ensure fairly constant year-round
temperatures along California’s redwood coast: mid-50s to mid-
60s°F—see chart on page 2. (Locals complain about the heat
when it reaches 70°F!) While coast redwoods can survive brief
Jeff Bomke
Superintendent, California State Parks
Jeff Denny, Park Ranger
coastal focus…4
short walks…6
scenic drives…7
camping…10
Miles of coast to explore, but where to start?
Park Ranger Pete Peterson offers an inside
tip for visiting one of his favorite seaside
locations. Also, discover the best places for
viewing coastal and marine wildlife (includ-
ing whales!), and learn how you can help
protect these resources—wherever you live!
Pressed for time, or looking for a leisurely,
family-friendly way to sample Redwood’s
riches? You’re in luck! Some of the parks’
most spectacular trails are also short and
easy. Our recommended walks feature
ancient, old-growth forests and a coastal
stroll with stunning views.
Just passing through? Our recommended
scenic drives through ancient forests, rugged
coastline, upland prairies, and oak woodlands
will have you planning a return visit in no
time! If you’re in a motorhome/RV or pull-
ing a trailer, please acknowledge any vehicle
type/size advisories and restrictions.
Redwood’s campgrounds and backcountry
campsites offer truly unique opportunities for
individuals and groups of diverse ages, inter-
ests, and skills. Campers with bikes or horses
are welcome, too! Careful planning and
knowledge of camping regulations will help
ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.
NPS COlleCtION
Essential Information…2-3
Nature & Science…5
Map…6-7
History & Culture…8
For Kids…9
Camping, Backcountry, & Trails…10-11
Stewardship & Safety…12
Information Centers: A Great Start
+
=
Five information centers provide orientation, information, and trip-planning
advice. Park rangers are on duty. Cooperating association (see right) book-
stores offer books, maps, and more.
We Can’t Do It Alone!
the Redwood Park Association and North Coast Redwood Interpretive
Association are not-for-proit cooperating associations, established to
aid and support the interpretive programs within Redwood National
and State Parks. Proceeds from sales are returned directly to the parks
for visitor programs, museum activities, research, library operations,
exhibits, and publications—including this Visitor Guide.
National or State Park?
Crescent City Information Center
Information, exhibits, park ilm, passport stamps, restrooms, picnic area,
Junior Ranger workbook.
Location:
1111 Second Street, Crescent City, Calif.
Operating Hours:
Summer:
Open daily, 9 a.m.to 6 p.m.;
Winter:
Open
daily, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.;
Spring and fall
: Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone:
707-465-7335
It’s both! In May 1994, the National Park
Service and California State Parks agreed
to cooperatively manage their contiguous
redwood parklands. Both park systems
have a long history working together
that dates back to Yosemite, which be-
came California’s irst state park in 1864.
though designated a national park in
1890, Yosemite was briely managed by
both state and federal governments.
North Coast
Redwood
Interpretive Association
www.ncria.org
Hiouchi Information Center
Information, exhibits, park ilm, passport stamps, restrooms, picnic area,
ranger-led activities and programs (summer only), Junior Ranger programs
(summer only) and workbook.
Location:
9 miles northeast of Crescent City, Calif. on u.S. 199.
Operating Hours:
Summer:
Open daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.;
Off-season:
As
stafing permits—please call ahead.
Phone:
707-458-3294
Redwood National and State Parks man-
ages these 133,000 acres to preserve,
protect, and make available to all people,
for their inspiration, enjoyment, and
education, the forests, scenic coastlines,
prairies, and streams and their associated
natural and cultural values, which deine
this World heritage Site; and to help
people forge emotional, intellectual, and
recreational ties to these parks.
Jedediah Smith Visitor Center
Information, exhibits, passport stamps, restrooms, picnic area, ranger-led
activities and programs (summer only), Junior Ranger programs (summer
only) and workbook.
Location:
Jedediah Smith Campground (see page 10), 9 miles northeast of
Crescent City, Calif. on u.S. 199.
Operating Hours:
Summer:
Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Off-season:
Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., as stafing permits.
Phone:
707-458-3496
www.redwoodparkassociation.org
Mailing Address
Redwood National and State Parks
1111 Second Street
Crescent City, Calif. 95531
Prairie Creek Visitor Center
Information, exhibits, park ilm, passport stamps, restrooms, picnic area,
ranger-led activities and programs (summer only), Junior Ranger programs
(summer only) and workbook.
Location:
6 miles north of Orick, Calif. on the Newton B. drury Scenic
Parkway (exit off u.S. 101).
Operating Hours:
Open daily (
year-round
), 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone:
707-465-7354
Web and E-mail
www.nps.gov/redw
For e-mail, click “Contact us”
Park Headquarters
ph: 707-465-7335
fax: 707-464-1812
Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center
Information, exhibits, park ilm, passport stamps, restrooms, picnic area,
ranger-led activities and programs (summer only), Junior Ranger programs
(summer only) and workbook.
Location:
2 miles south of Orick, Calif. on u.S. 101.
Operating Hours:
Summer:
Open daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.;
Winter:
Open
daily, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.;
Spring and fall
: Open daily, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone:
707-465-7765
the Redwood National and State Parks
Visitor Guide is provided by the Redwood
Park Association in cooperation with
Redwood National and State Parks, 2010.
Newspaper Editor
Michael Glore
Don’t forget your park passport stamps,
available at all information centers!
Top
: The Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center near Orick, Calif.
Bottom
: National
and state park rangers assist visitors at the Crescent City Information Center.
The Fine Print: What You Need to Know
Dates and Hours of Operation
Redwood National and State Parks is always open.
Information centers (above) and campgrounds (see
page10) maintain seasonal hours of operation.
Permits
Permits may be required for scientiic research,
collecting, organized events, and commercial ac-
tivities such as ilming. Call 707-465-7307 or visit
www.nps.gov/redw for more information.
Backcountry
Permits are required for camping at some back-
country campsites; fees may apply (see page 10).
Tall Trees Access Road
the gated tall trees Access Road is only acces-
sible via free permit available from the thomas
h. kuchel Visitor Center (see above). A maximum
of 50 permits per day are issued on a irst-come,
irst-served basis.
Crescent City, Calif. Weather
Month
Average High
Average Low
Average Precip.
Fees and Reservations
Redwood National Park is free to visit. Jedediah
Smith Redwood, del Norte Coast Redwood,
and Prairie Creek Redwood state parks collect
day-use fees at campground entrance stations.
Fees are required at all campgrounds and some
backcountry campsites; reservations may also be
required (see pages 10-11).
January
54.1°F (12.3°C)
39.5°F (4.2°C)
11.6” (29.5 cm)
February
55.7°F (13.2°C)
40.5°F (4.7°C)
9.9” (25.2 cm)
March
56.9°F (13.8°C)
40.9°F (4.9°C)
9.0” (22.7 cm)
April
59.1°F (15.1°C)
42.4°F (5.8°C)
5.3” (13.6 cm)
May
61.9°F (16.6°C)
45.3°F (7.4°C)
3.5” (8.8 cm)
June
64.9°F (18.3°C)
48.3°F (9.1°C)
1.6” (4.0 cm)
Firearms and Hunting
Federal law allows people who can legally pos-
sess irearms under applicable federal, state,
and local laws to possess irearms in National
Park Service-administered lands within Redwood
National and State Parks. It is the responsibility of
visitors to understand and comply with all ap-
plicable state, local, and federal irearms laws be-
fore entering National Park Service-administered
lands within Redwood National and State Parks.
Federal law also prohibits irearms in certain
facilities in the national park; those places will be
marked with signs at all public entrances.
Sportishing
Ocean and freshwater sportishing requires a
California ishing license for those 16 years-old
and older and must be in accordance with
California department of Fish and Game (CdFG)
regulations (available online at www.dfg.ca.gov).
For more information, contact any information
center (see above) or the CdFG Northern Region
Field Ofice in eureka at (707) 445-6493.
July
66.9°F (19.4°C)
50.6°F (10.3°C)
0.5” (1.1 cm)
August
67.3°F (19.6°C)
50.9°F (10.5°C)
0.6” (1.6 cm)
September
67.6°F (19.8°C)
49.1°F (9.5°C)
1.8” (4.7 cm)
October
64.1°F (17.8°C)
46.2°F (7.9°C)
5.2” (13.3 cm)
November
58.4°F (14.7°C)
42.9°F (6.1°C)
9.9” (25.0 cm)
december
54.7°F (12.6°C)
40.1°F (4.5°C)
11.7” (29.6 cm)
Collecting and Vandalism
With the exception of apples (ive per person
per day) and berries, acorns, hazel nuts and
unoccupied seashells (one gallon per person per
day), disturbing, defacing, or collecting plants,
animals, rocks, historic or archaeological objects
without a permit in prohibited. Please leave these
resources as you ind them for others to enjoy.
Annual
61.0°F (16.1°C)
44.7°F (7.1°C)
70.5” (179.1 cm)
State laws prohibit irearms in California State
Parks-administered lands.
Safety
the wild animals, plants, waterways, and other
natural features, as well as certain weather con-
ditions that occur here, can be dangerous. For
more information about protecting yourself and
your parks, see page 12.
In case of emergency dial:
911
hunting (and/or any discharge of irearms) is
prohibited in Redwood National and State Parks.
2
Redwood Visitor Guide
Ranger-Led Programs & Activities
b e pA rt o f A n At i o n A l A n d s tAt e
parks tradition! Park rangers and other
staf lead a variety of seasonally available
activities and programs throughout the
parks that are free, informative, and fun for
all ages and backgrounds.
Programs available mid-May to mid-
September. Inquire at information cen-
ters (left) or campground bulletin boards
for times, topics, and locations.
jUNIOR RANgER PROgRAMS (1 HOUR)
Children ages 7-12 have fun while learn-
ing about the people, plants, animals, and
life systems of the redwood region. Allow
one hour for scheduled programs at the
Jedediah Smith Campground, Mill Creek
Campground, or Prairie Creek Visitor
Center; self-paced junior ranger activities
are available at all visitor centers. See page
9 for more activities and information.
TIDEPOOL WALK (2 HOURS, AS TIDES PERMIT)
Get your hands (and feet!) wet while dis-
covering delicate tidepool creatures. A
park ranger-naturalist leads this investiga-
tion into the hidden world beneath the
waves.
Come prepared: dress for the weath-
er; bring drinking water and a snack; wear
sturdy hiking shoes or boots (no sandals)
with non-slip soles—they will get wet!
CAMPFIRE PROgRAMS (1 HOUR)
As darkness descends on the North Coast,
the Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, and Elk
Prairie campgrounds (see page 10) are
ideal settings for an informative and inspir-
ing night cap. Programs may include nar-
rated slide shows, storytelling, music, and/
or games. Campire circles and outdoor
amphitheaters are wheelchair accessible.
NATURE WALKS (1-2 HOURS)
Immerse yourself in the forest, sea, or prai-
rielands. Join a park ranger-naturalist for a
down-to-earth exploration of the natural
communities that contribute to one of the
most diverse ecosystems on Earth.
Come
prepared: dress for the weather; bring drink-
ing water and a snack; wear sturdy hiking
shoes or boots with non-slip soles.
FAQs:
Where can I…
Area Information
Chambers of Commerce & Visitor Bureaus
…take my pet for a walk?
With the exception of guide animals, pets are not allowed on park trails, at ranger-
led programs, or in park buildings. Pets on a leash not exceeding six feet in length
are allowed on all road-accessible beaches (excluding dune habitat), within 100 feet
of public roads and parking areas, and at designated picnic areas, only.
`
Arcata, Calif.
California Welcome Center
1635 heindon Road
Arcata, CA 95521
ph: 707-822-3619
web: www.arcatachamber.com
McKinleyville, Calif.
1640 Central Ave.
Mckinleyville, CA 95519
ph: 707-839-2449
web: www.mckinleyvillechamber.com
,
…have a campire?
Fires are only permitted: in park-provided grills and ire rings at picnic areas, camp-
grounds, and designated backcountry campsites; on Redwood Creek gravel bars,
per conditions of a valid permit; and, on beach wave slopes. up to 50 pounds of
dead and downed wood (including driftwood) may be collected by hand for use as
irewood at these locations.
Brookings, Ore.
16330 lower harbor Road
Brookings, OR 97415
ph: 541-469-3181 or 800-535-9469
web: www.brookingsor.com
Orick, Calif.
P.O. Box 234
Orick, CA 95555
ph: 707-488-2885
web: www.orick.net
*
…ride my bicycle?
Bicycles are permitted on all public roadways open to vehicle trafic, as well as on
designated backcountry bicycle routes (see page 11). Biker/hiker campsites are
available at all developed campgrounds and at some backcountry campsites. See
pages 10-11 for more information.
Crescent City, Calif. / Del Norte County
1001 Front Street
Crescent City, CA 95531
ph: 707-464-3174 or 800-343-8300
web: www.northerncalifornia.net
Trinidad, Calif.
P.O. Box 356
trinidad, CA 95570
ph: 707-677-1610
web: www.discovertrinidadca.com
I
…ride my horse or travel with pack animals?
travel with horses and/or pack animals is permitted only on trails designated for
that purpose (see page 11). Camping with horses is allowed at two stock-ready
campsites along these routes; free permit may be required. Inquire at any informa-
tion center (see page 2) or see pages10-11 for more information.
Eureka, Calif.
2112 Broadway Street
eureka, CA 95501
ph: 707-442-3738 or 800-356-6381
web: www.eurekachamber.com
What’s Left of the
Redwoods?
K
…take my motorhome, RV, or trailer?
With the exception of major highways, the Newton B. drury Scenic Parkway, and
access roads to information centers and campgrounds (though length limits may
apply—see page 10), motorhomes, recreational vehicles (RVs), and trailers are
either ill-advised or prohibited on other roadways. Check-out the map on pages 6-7
or inquire at any information center (see page 2) for additional information.
Humboldt County Convention
& Visitors Bureau
1034 2nd Street
eureka, CA 95501
ph: 800-346-3482
web: www.redwoods.info
Redwoods
Historic Range:
2,000,000 acres
B
…have a picnic?
Picnic tables are available at numerous locations throughout the parks, including
all information centers (see page 2).
Help Keep Wildlife Wild
: never feed wildlife;
properly dispose of all garbage—even crumbs; store food and other odorous items
in airtight containers, out-of-sight in a locked car or bear-proof locker.
Klamath, Calif.
P.O. Box 476
klamath, CA 95548
ph: 707-482-7165 or 800-200-2335
web: www.klamathcc.org
4% remains:
3% preserved in public lands
1% privately owned & managed
W
…ind lodging?
While there are no lodging services (hotels, motels, or hostels, etc.) within Redwood
National and State Parks, lodging is available in and around nearby communities—
contact local chambers of commerce (see “Area Information,” above) for more
information.
...see some really tall trees?
When logging began in 1850, roughly two million acres of ancient or “old-
growth” coast redwood forest canopy mantled the coastal mountains of
California. today, less than four percent remains. Redwood National and
State Parks preserves 45 percent of all remaining old-growth coast red-
wood forests in California.
C
…dine or purchase groceries?
there are no food services within Redwood National and State Parks. Restaurants
and groceries are available in and around nearby communities—contact local
chambers of commerce for more information (see “Area Information,” above). Full-
service grocery stores are available in Brookings, Ore., and Crescent City, trinidad,
Mckinleyville, Arcata, and eureka, Calif.
to experience these rare yet iconic forests yourself, refer to the map on
pages 6-7: Shaded areas identify the general locations of old-growth
forests. Most “Recommended Short Walks” and “Recommended Scenic
drives” offer easy access to some really tall trees. Most of the “Suggested
hikes” in the chart on page 11 also traverse old-growth forests.
−
…go camping?
Camping is permitted: in four developed campgrounds; at numerous
designated
backcountry camps; and at dispersed sites on Redwood Creek gravel bars upstream
of Bond Creek and no closer than 4-mile from tall trees Grove. Permits, reservations,
and/or fees may apply—see pages 10-11 for more info. Outside the national and
state parks, tent, trailer, and RV camping may be available on adjacent public lands
or nearby private campgrounds. Inquire at any information center or contact local
chambers of commerce (see “Area Information,” above) for additional information.
even travelers on major highways will catch glimpse of these giants (just
keep an eye on the road!): look for ancient coast redwoods along u.S. 199
through Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, as well as on u.S. 101, espe-
cially just south of Crescent City, Calif. in del Norte Coast Redwoods State
Park—it’s not called the Redwood highway for nothing!
NPS COlleCtION
Redwood Visitor Guide
3
in depth: coastal connections
giant green anenome (
Anthopleura xanthogrammica
): a familiar tidepool resident.
The (not so) great
Paciic garbage Patch
Park Ranger’s Pick:
pete peterson on the
Klamath river overlook
We’ve all seen litter accumulate in cities
and along roadways. Much of it collects
in storm drains, canals, rivers, and streams
where it lows into our oceans. driven by
currents—sometimes thousands of miles
from its origin—some marine debris is de-
posited ashore by wind and tide. Indeed,
take a walk along any beach in the world
and you’ll likely encounter ocean garbage.
even the seemingly pristine beaches of
Redwood National and State Parks are not
immune to this unsightly plight. But these
are just the more visible signs of a larger
problem—
much
larger.
A s A pA r K r A n g e r , i ’ m o f t e n A s K e d
which place in the parks is my favorite.
It’s a tough question—there are so many
incredible things to see and do here at
Redwood National and State Parks. But
for me, the Klamath River Overlook near
Requa, Calif. is at the top of my list (see
map on pages 6-7). Perched 650 feet above
the Paciic Ocean, the overlook ofers
amazing views of the parks’ rugged and
scenic coastline. While most visitors come
to Redwood for the world’s tallest trees,
few are aware of this vast and equally im-
portant resource: nearly 40 miles of pristine coastline are protect-
ed within these parklands out to a distance of ¼-mile ofshore.
From the Klamath River Overlook you’ll begin to appreciate why.
the Great Paciic Garbage Patch is a vast
concentration of loating plastics, chemi-
cal sludge, and other debris gathered by
oceanic currents. Waste from across the
North Paciic Ocean is drawn in by the
rotational movement of the North Paciic
Gyre where it becomes “trapped” in a
large and relatively stable region at its cen-
ter. estimates for the extent of the Gar-
bage Patch vary by sampling method, but
range from 270,000 mi
2
(700,000 km
2
)
to
5,800,000 mi
2
(15,000,000 km
2
); some
reports suggest up to “twice the size of
the continental united States.”
A park ranger for 10
years, Pete Peterson lives
in gasquet, Calif.
Top
: A Paciic gray whale (
Eschrichtius robustus
) breaches.
Bottom
: At the Klamath
River Overlook, a park ranger-naturalist directs visitors’ attention to wildlife near
the mouth of the Klamath River.
Be forwarned, however: the overlook can be shrouded in coastal
fog on many summer days or bufeted by high winds and drench-
ing rain in winter. But on those extraordinary days when it’s clear
and calm, you can see hundreds of miles from this lofty vantage
point. Below, ofshore rocks, crags, and small islands known col-
lectively as sea stacks provide critical nesting habitat for seabirds
such as the common murre and the double-crested cormorant.
Sea stacks also provide a safe place for sea lions and harbor seals
to haul themselves out of the cold water to rest and soak-up some
sunshine. Composed of harder, erosion-resistant rock, sea stacks
are the remnants of an older coastline; centuries of ocean storms
and pounding surf eroded the softer rocks away.
But it’s the oppotunity to witness another amazing journey—a
12,000-mile roundtrip migration—that, for me, makes the
Klamath River Overlook so special. From early December to
the end of January, approximately 18,000 to 20,000 Paciic gray
whales pass by the overlook as they migrate from feeding grounds
of Alaska to the warm-water breeding lagoons of Baja California
and Mexico. Then again, from mid-February to the end of May,
they make the return trip north. At high tide on a calm, clear day
visitors may see dozens of whales passing near the river mouth.
Look for their distinctive 6-12 foot high “blow” as they exhale at
the surface. And, if you’re lucky, you may even see a “breach”
which occurs when a whale launches its body out of the water.
Regardless of size, composition, and
location, man-made debris and garbage
simply do not belong in our oceans. Much
more than an eyesore, it threatens human
health and safety (on land and at sea),
damages critical habitat, and kills wildlife:
an estimated one million seabirds and
100,000 marine mammals and seas turtles
are killed each year by ingesting marine
litter, entanglement, or choking.
I’m equally compelled to the overlook for spectacular views of
it’s namesake—the mighty Klamath River. Here, at the river’s
mouth, freshwater merges with seawater after a journey of over
250 miles that begins high in the snow-laden Cascade Mountains
of southern Oregon. The river drains a watershed of over 15,000
square miles (about three times the size of Connecticut) and is
prime habitat for Chinook and coho salmon, steelhead, rainbow
trout, sturgeon, lamprey, and several species of suckers. For mil-
lennia, the Yurok, Hupa, Karuk, Shasta, and Klamath people have
depended on these isheries for their cultural livelihood.
Park ranger-naturalists regularly staf the Klamath River Overlook
during March to assist whale watchers—inquire at any informa-
tion center (see page 2) for schedules. I know I’ve enjoyed my
time there, helping visitors from around the world catch a glimpse
of these magniicent creatures for the irst time in their life. For
most of them, as well as for me, it’s an experience that simply can-
not be forgotten. Hope to see you there!
But you can help
, even if you live far
from the ocean:
• Dispose of all trash properly.
• Participate in a beach, stream, or storm
drain cleanup in your area.
• Reduce, reuse, and recycle!
• Avoid buying plastic products (they can
take centuries to degrade in the ocean).
• Avoid buying products with excessive
packaging.
Wildlife of the Redwood Coast
Protect Yourself, Protect Your Coast!
See page 12 for safety information
about visiting Redwood’s coast.
to learn more, visit the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration’s Marine
debris Program online at
www.marinedebris.noaa.gov
Nowhere in Redwood National and State Parks is the wildlife more diverse
than along the Paciic Ocean coast. A great variety of birds, tidepool inhab-
itants, sea mammals, and other creatures dwell in a rich mosaic of habitats
provided by the sea. See map on pages 6-7 for locations mentioned below.
Tidepools
A ranger-led tidepool walk is a great way to experience these wondrous en-
vironments—inquire at any information center (see page 2) or campground
bulletin board for details. Or, head out on your own to enderts Beach or
False klamath Cove. however you explore, tread lightly and with care: tide-
pool creatures are delicate and their rocky habitat can be treacherous.
Offshore
the Crescent City, klamath River, and high Bluffs overlooks provide ideal
offshore wildlife viewing opportunities. Also look for seals and sea lions
from the Crescent City harbor (exit Anchor Way off u.S. 101).
• California mussel (
Mytilus californianus
)
• Ochre sea star (
Evasterias troschelii
)
• Purple shore crab (
Hemigrapsus nudus
)
• Shield limpet (
Collisella pelta
)
• Giant green anemone (
Anthopleura xanthogrammica
)
• Harbor seal (
Phoca vitulina
)
• Paciic gray whale (
Eschrichtius robustus
)
• Common dolphin (
Delphinus delphis
)
• Surf scoter (
Melanitta perspicillata
)
• California sea lion (
Zalophus californianus
)
Sea Stacks
Common along the parks’ northern coast, observe the sea stack life from
False klamath Cove, including the Yurok loop trail (see page 6), and from
the numerous pull-outs along Pebble Beach drive in Crescent City, Calif.:
the 14-acre Castle Rock near Point St. George is a National Wildlife Refuge
and home to the second-largest nesting seabird colony south of Alaska.
May you never
cross paths with
“Og”: Ocean
garbage.
Beaches
Sandy beaches ideal for birding include Crescent and enderts beaches
just south of Crescent City, Calif., Gold Bluff Beach in Prairie Creek
Redwoods State Park, and Freshwater Beach southwest of Orick, Calif.
NPS COlleCtION
• Killdeer (
Charadrius vociferus
)
• Western sandpiper (
Calidris mauri
)
• Western gull (
Larus occidentalis
)
• Sanderling (
Calidris alba
)
• Willet (
Catoptrophorus semipalmatus
)
• Common murre (
Uria aalge
)
• Brown pelican (
Pelecanus occidentalis
)
• Black oystercatcher (
Haematopus bachmani
)
• Pigeon guillemot (
Cepphus columba
)
• Double-crested cormorant (
Phalacrocorax auritus
)
4
Redwood Visitor Guide
nature & science
Towering, ancient coast redwoods (
Sequoia sempervirens
) thrive on the Smith River loodplain at Stout grove (see “Recommended Short Walks” on page 6).
Three Redwoods: All in the Subfamily
Humble beginnings:
Actual size of a coast
redwood seed cone.
NPS COlleCtION
though we often simply refer to
the world’s tallest living trees on Califor-
nia’s North Coast as “redwoods,” there
are in fact three distinct redwood species:
dawn redwood, giant sequoia, and coast
redwood. Much like the members of your
family, the species in this subfamily
(Sequoioideae) share a common ancestry
and many similar characteristics while
maintaining their own unique identities.
DAWN REDWOOD
Metasequoia glyptostroboides
gIANT SEqUOIA
Sequoiadendron giganteum
COAST REDWOOD
Sequoia sempervirens
Thought to have been extinct for millions
of years, the dawn redwood was rediscov-
ered in 1944 by a forester in the Sichuan-
Hubei region of China. Also popular as an
ornamental today, the tree is easily distin-
guished from its California relatives by its
smaller size and deciduous leaves.
Quick-growing and long-lived (some
over 3,000 years), no tree is more massive
that the giant sequoia. The General Sher-
man Tree in Sequoia National Park is the
most massive living thing on Earth, with
an estimated total volume of over 50,000
cubic feet.
Coast redwoods are the tallest trees in
the world. Dense forest stands grow on
nutrient-rich river bars and lood plains,
protected from the wind. Heavy winter
rains and fog from the Paciic Ocean keeps
the trees continually damp, even during
summer droughts.
Fossil evidence suggests that redwoods
descended from a group of conifers that
thrived across Europe, Asia, and North
America when dinosaurs roamed the
Earth—in the Jurassic period more than
145 million years ago. As Earth’s climate
gradually and generally became cooler and
drier, redwoods became restricted to three
distinctive geographic regions and evolved
into the three species we know today.
Distribution:
Central China.
Height:
To 140 feet (43 m).
Diameter:
To 6 feet (2 m).
Age:
Indeterminate.
Leaves:
Deciduous; needle-like with small
stalk, arranged opposite each other.
Cone size:
Like a large olive; shed yearly.
Seed size:
Like a tomato seed.
Reproduction:
By seed.
Habitat/climate:
Indeterminate.
Distribution:
Western slopes of Sierra
Nevada Mountains in Central California.
Height:
To 311 feet (95 m).
Diameter:
To 40 feet (12 m).
Age:
To more than 3,000 years.
Leaves:
Evergreen; awl-shaped, attached
at base.
Cone size:
Like a chicken egg; can stay on
tree for two decades.
Seed size:
Like an oat lake.
Reproduction:
By seed only.
Habitat/climate:
Seedlings require abun-
dant light, are frost tolerant, and drought-
resistant.
Distribution:
Northern California coast,
and into southernmost coastal Oregon.
Height:
To 370 feet (113 m) or more.
Diameter:
To 22 feet (7 m).
Age:
To more than 2,000 years.
Leaves:
Evergreen; both needle- and awl-
shaped, attached at base.
Cone size:
Like a large olive; shed after 1-2
years.
Seed Size:
Like a tomato seed.
Reproduction:
By seed or sprout.
Habitat/climate:
Seedlings are shade-tol-
erant but frost sensitive; require abundant
moisture.
All redwoods are cone-bearing trees
and get their common name from their
reddish-brown bark and heartwood. And,
by whatever name, these magniicent trees
have the uncanny ability to inspire awe and
mystery. It’s a subfamily tradition!
marbled murrelet: on the edge of extinction
Watchable Wildlife:
Roosevelt Elk
Roosevelt elk (
Cervus elaphus roosevelti
) is
the largest subspecies of North American
elk and one of the most commonly seen
mammals in Redwood National and State
Parks. though abundant today, as few as 15
Roosevelt elk remained in California in 1925
when one of the last herds made its stand
in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Since
then, protection of critical habitat in parks
and surrounding areas has allowed the popu-
lation to rebound.
Prime locations for viewing Roosevelt elk include (also see map on pages 6-7):
• Elk Prairie:
Six miles north of Orick, Calif. or 34 miles south of Crescent City, Calif. on the
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.
NPS COlleCtION
• Elk Meadow:
Exit Davison Road three miles north of Orick, Calif. or 39 miles south of
Crescent City, Calif. on U.S. 101.
sheltered in A soft nest of moss And ferns, A mArbled murrelet chicK
waits silently atop a massive coast redwood branch high above the forest loor. It’s par-
ents spend their day at sea diving for small ish, returning at dusk to feed their solitary
ofspring. Like the fog that shrouds the North Coast, the life of the marbled murrelet
(
Brachyramphus marmoratus
) is connected to both forest and sea.
• Gold Bluffs Beach
(day-use fee area)
:
From Elk Meadow (see above), continue four un-
paved miles on Davison Road (trailers prohibited; motorhomes/RVs not advised).
• Bald Hills Road:
Exit Bald Hills Road one mile north of Orick, Calif. or 41 miles south of
Crescent City, Calif. on U.S. 101; continue about nine miles or more on Bald Hills Road to
upland prairie and oak woodland habitat.
Nearby, a Steller’s jay hops along the forest loor scavenging for any morsel of food.
Aggressive and incredibly intelligent—they can remember hundreds of diferent food
locations—jays and their fellow corvids (ravens and crows) lourish at the ecologically-
rich edges of the redwood forest.
elk may appear almost anywhere—even along major roads and the
busy u.S. 101 corridor. Biologists think that road kills are among the
major cause of death for elk in the parks. For your safety and theirs,
please respect posted speed limits and always watch for wildlife.
The edges of this once unbroken forest have increased a hundred-fold in as many years.
Logging, highways, cities, campgrounds, and picnic areas open broad boulevards into
the heart of the coast redwood forest. Thus exposed, murrelet chicks and eggs make easy
meals for crafty corvids. As the forest edge continues to expand, the marbled murrelet
lives on the edge of extinction.
Adult males (bulls) weigh up to 1,200 pounds and will aggressively
guard their harems, especially during the fall mating season. Female
cows may be very protective during calving season, typically May–
June.
Never approach wild elk!
: observe them from a distance
with binoculars or photograph them with a telephoto lens.
You are the link!
Please: Never feed wildlife—ever. Keep campsites, picnic areas, and
trails free of food and garbage. Leave no crumb behind! Together, we can ensure a place
in the wild for a rare bird.
Jeff Denny, Park Ranger
Redwood Visitor Guide
5
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