The Avenue of the Giants is more than just a road; it’s an immersive experience. Nestled in the heart of Northern California, this 31-mile stretch of former U.S. Highway 101 offers an unparalleled journey through a landscape dominated by the world’s tallest trees: the majestic coastal redwoods. Paralleling the modern U.S. 101 between Exit 672 near Pepperwood and Exit 645, this route provides a captivating alternative to the faster freeway, inviting travelers to slow down and connect with nature on a grand scale.
While a direct drive on Highway 101 between these exits might take a mere 25 minutes, venturing onto the Avenue of the Giants transforms the trip into an exploration that can last anywhere from two and a half hours, with a leisurely picnic and a short walk, to an entire day filled with photographic stops and forest bathing. The allure lies not just in reaching a destination but in the journey itself, a passage through a living cathedral of towering trees.
A Road Less Traveled: The Story of the Avenue
Once the main thoroughfare of U.S. Route 101, the Avenue of the Giants was bypassed in 1960 with the completion of a more efficient freeway. This rerouting, however, inadvertently preserved a unique treasure. Freed from the pressures of heavy traffic, the old highway transformed into a scenic byway, a place where the pace of life slows down, and the grandeur of the natural world takes center stage. Today, the Avenue of the Giants stands as a testament to the enduring power of nature and the importance of preserving these ancient forests.
The road itself is generally flat and well-maintained, making it accessible to a wide range of vehicles, including larger RVs and vehicles towing trailers. However, the real charm of the Avenue of the Giants lies in its accessibility to exploration. Numerous trailheads dot the route, beckoning visitors to step out of their cars and immerse themselves in the redwood forest.
Setting Expectations: What Awaits Along the Avenue
It’s important to approach the Avenue of the Giants with realistic expectations. While the name evokes images of an unbroken canopy of towering redwoods lining the entire 31-mile stretch, the reality is more nuanced. Coastal redwoods, unlike some other tree species, tend to grow in groves, often interspersed with other types of trees and plants, as well as occasional small towns. This varied landscape adds to the overall richness of the experience, providing glimpses into different facets of the region’s ecology and history.
Another common misconception is the possibility of driving through a living redwood tree. While the early 20th century saw a brief period where such practices were deemed acceptable in the name of tourism, these "drive-thru trees" are now largely relics of the past, and those that remain are located on private property. One easily accessible example is the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree near Myers Flat, offering a glimpse into this bygone era.
It’s also crucial to distinguish between coastal redwoods and giant sequoias. While both are giants of the tree world, they possess distinct characteristics. Coastal redwoods are the tallest trees on Earth, often exceeding 300 feet in height. They are slender in comparison to sequoias. The giant sequoias, on the other hand, are the most massive trees by volume, boasting immense trunks that can exceed 30 feet in diameter and limbs that resemble the size of oak trees. These behemoths are primarily found in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, within and around Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks.
Navigating the Giants: Getting There
Accessing the Avenue of the Giants is remarkably straightforward. Simply take Exit 672 or Exit 645 from U.S. Highway 101, depending on your direction of travel. Once on the Avenue, it’s essential to ignore any subsequent signs directing you back to Highway 101 if you wish to experience the entire scenic route. At the end of the Avenue, U.S. Highway 101 will be the only available option.
Exit 645 is clearly marked as "Avenue of the Giants Alternate Route," which can be slightly misleading. The term "alternate" simply signifies that the Avenue provides an alternative to remaining on Highway 101, offering a more immersive and leisurely journey through the redwood forest.
The road itself is generally wide enough to accommodate two lanes of traffic, even in sections where the trees grow remarkably close to the roadway. In some spots, you could almost reach out and touch the rough bark of these ancient giants. Despite the proximity of the trees, the road is suitable for larger vehicles, including RVs and trailers, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Unveiling the Treasures: What to See Along the Way
The Avenue of the Giants is dotted with numerous points of interest, each offering a unique perspective on the redwood forest and its surrounding environment. Here are a few noteworthy stops:
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Greig-French-Bell Grove: While many stops along the Avenue focus on the towering height of the redwoods, Grieg-French-Bell Grove invites visitors to shift their gaze downward. Here, the forest floor is carpeted in a lush, vibrant green layer of sorrel plants. These plants grow so densely that they blanket everything in sight, including fallen trees and logs, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of green. The turnout for the grove is located near the northern end of the Avenue, on the west side of the road. However, the sign can be difficult to spot, and parking is along the side of the highway.
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Eel River: The South Fork of the Eel River flows alongside the Avenue of the Giants for much of its length, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the towering trees. On a warm day, the river’s clear, cool waters can be incredibly inviting. While swimming is possible in certain areas, it’s essential to exercise caution and be aware of potential hazards, such as strong currents and submerged logs. The river is also a vital habitat for salmon and steelhead trout. Despite its name, the Eel River is not home to eels. Instead, it’s inhabited by the eel-like Pacific lamprey, a jawless fish that can grow up to 30 inches long and spawns in the river during the spring.
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Founder’s Grove Hike: For those seeking a short and accessible hike, the Founder’s Grove Trail is an excellent choice. This relatively flat, 0.6-mile loop trail provides a comprehensive introduction to the redwood forest. During the short stroll, you can marvel at the towering trees, examine the massive root systems of fallen giants, and observe living trees with burned-out centers, offering a glimpse into the resilience of these ancient organisms. Until 1991, the tallest tree in the world, the Dyerville Giant, stood in Founder’s Grove. This behemoth measured 362 feet tall, surpassing the Statue of Liberty by 60 feet, and was estimated to be around 1,600 years old when it succumbed to gale-force winds during a rainstorm. Today, the fallen Dyerville Giant remains in Founder’s Grove, where it continues to play a vital role in the ecosystem by decomposing and enriching the forest floor, providing sustenance for new life.
Essential Tips for Exploring the Avenue
To make the most of your journey along the Avenue of the Giants, consider these helpful tips:
- Allow ample time: The Avenue is best experienced at a leisurely pace. Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the various stops and trails.
- Wear comfortable shoes: If you plan to hike, comfortable shoes are essential. The trails can be uneven in places.
- Bring water and snacks: While there are some small towns along the Avenue, it’s always a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.
- Dress in layers: The weather in the redwood forest can be unpredictable. It’s best to dress in layers so you can adjust to changing conditions.
- Be prepared for crowds: The Avenue of the Giants is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. Be prepared for crowds and potential delays.
- Respect the environment: Help preserve the beauty of the redwood forest by staying on marked trails, packing out your trash, and avoiding disturbing the natural environment.
- Check for closures: Before you go, check for any road closures or trail closures. This information can usually be found on the Humboldt Redwoods State Park website.
The Avenue of the Giants is more than just a scenic drive; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, to marvel at the scale and beauty of the redwood forest, and to experience a sense of wonder that will stay with you long after you’ve left. So, slow down, take your time, and immerse yourself in the magic of this extraordinary place.
