Last updated: April 15, 2022
Place
Boy Scout Tree Trail
NPS Photo / B. Marciniec.
Quick Facts
Location:
Near Crescent City on the Howland Hill Road
Significance:
A moderate hike through old-growth redwoods.
Designation:
State Park
Amenities
4 listed
Parking - Auto, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead
A Moderate Hike In The North
This rewarding hike though old-growth redwoods is popular for those near Crescent City wanting a bit of a challenge - both physically and logistically. Located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, visitors should consider this as a half-day experience to access and walk this 5.5 mile round trip trail. During this hike you will follow riparian areas, see Fern Falls, and of course lots of big trees. This trail ends at the base of Fern Falls. To protect the habitats - and for your safety - do not attempt to climb on, or near any waterfall.
Logistically, this is a good hiking option if you are near Crescent City with a smaller vehicle and you are unable to drive an hour south to the other longer hiking trails in the parks. Parking at the trailhead may be limited, and in summer your vehicle will get very dusty.
Check the road conditions before beginning this trip - sometimes Howland Hill Road is closed. The shortest drive to the trailhead starts southeast of Crescent City at the Elk Valley Road. From this road you will need to take your vehicle east for 3.5 miles along the Howland Hill Road which is narrow, winding dirt road. Howland Hill Road is not suitable for trailers or motor homes.
Safety Tips
This rewarding hike though old-growth redwoods is popular for those near Crescent City wanting a bit of a challenge - both physically and logistically. Located in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, visitors should consider this as a half-day experience to access and walk this 5.5 mile round trip trail. During this hike you will follow riparian areas, see Fern Falls, and of course lots of big trees. This trail ends at the base of Fern Falls. To protect the habitats - and for your safety - do not attempt to climb on, or near any waterfall.
Logistically, this is a good hiking option if you are near Crescent City with a smaller vehicle and you are unable to drive an hour south to the other longer hiking trails in the parks. Parking at the trailhead may be limited, and in summer your vehicle will get very dusty.
Check the road conditions before beginning this trip - sometimes Howland Hill Road is closed. The shortest drive to the trailhead starts southeast of Crescent City at the Elk Valley Road. From this road you will need to take your vehicle east for 3.5 miles along the Howland Hill Road which is narrow, winding dirt road. Howland Hill Road is not suitable for trailers or motor homes.
Safety Tips
- We recommend you purchase and use a good map and trail guide for your adventures in Redwood National and State Parks. Don’t rely on online maps when you are here.
- To protect the habitats, leave no trace also means staying on the developed trail. Please don’t go off trail or make any new trails. These forests grow by the inch, and will die by your foot.
- To protect the wildlife (and you and other visitors), pets are not allowed on park trails.
- Cell coverage is very limited and cannot be relied on in an emergency. Have a plan for checking in and checking out with a friend when you are here.