How to Plan an Epic Redwoods Elopement

Why a Redwoods Elopement?

As a California elopement photographer, Redwood National Park is definitely one of my favorite locations for elopements. From the lush green forest to some of the most beautiful coastlines, Redwoods National Park is perfect if you and your partner are lovers of nature and adventure! With Coastal Redwoods being the tallest plants in the world, you truly need to be there experiencing them in person to comprehend their size. From being surrounded by the beautiful scenery to breathing in the fresh air, I promise you will not regret planning a Redwoods elopement!

 If you’re looking to plan your intimate Redwoods elopement, this blog shares tons of information on locations, accommodations, activities, and more!

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Where is Redwood National Park?

Redwood national park is located in Northern California and covers such a large piece of land that it is separated into 4 different parks. These parks include Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. There is also Humboldt State Park and while separate from the others, I will also be including some information on that area as well. 

Travel to Redwood National Park

If you live in California or in one of the bordering states, then I would highly recommend driving to Redwood National Park. It is one of the most beautiful and scenic drives and definitely worth it for the views. But if you are coming from a bit further away or aren’t a fan of road trips, here are the best airports to fly into. 

What is the best time of year for a Redwoods Elopement?

Being as though California usually has pretty mild weather, other than all of the rain we got recently lol, you can plan your elopement for any time of the year. Although if you are looking to avoid the rain, the best months to plan for would be from May to September.

Do I need a permit to elope in Redwood National Park?

When planning an elopement in any outdoor area, especially a national or state park, it is essential to look into permits. To elope in Redwood National Park, you do need to obtain a permit if you are planning a ceremony taking place within the park’s boundaries. There is currently a list of pre-approved locations that I have included below in the next section. I always recommend that my clients choose a pre-approved ceremony location. Permits for pre-approved ceremony locations are typically much easier to get. These are all beautiful ceremony locations if you are planning your Redwoods elopement!

To obtain a permit for an elopement ceremony in Redwood National Park, here is the pricing:

Best Locations for a Redwoods Elopement

To be honest, all of the Redwood National Park is beautiful and you can’t go wrong with any location. But since it is such a large area (132,000 acres to be exact), it can be super overwhelming to pick a spot. So down below is a list of the pre-approved locations as well as a few that I personally love for your Redwoods elopement ceremony. 

Pre-Approved Ceremony Locations:

My Favorite Areas for a Redwood Elopement

Humboldt Redwoods: 4 Hours from San Francisco

Why the Humboldt Redwoods?

Although Humboldt isn’t part of the National Park, it is still one of the more popular areas. Humboldt is home to the largest and densest groves of Redwoods in the world and truly embodies what the Redwoods are. The majority of the trees are old growth and Humboldt has some of the world’s tallest and most famous trees. Because it’s not one of the bigger parks, you don’t see as many visitors here as you do in other parks. You won’t regret any time spent in this park.

Hiking Options for After your Elopement Ceremony in Humboldt

Bull Creek Westside Loop trail:

This trail is 7 miles. of moderate hiking and takes an around 3 hours to complete. It is relatively flat hike
with some incline. Secluded trail that runs through old growth Redwoods and trail begins by crossing over a fallen tree above the creek.

Mahan Plaque Trail:

This 1 mile hike is pretty easy and takes about 30 minutes to complete. The trail runs along Avenue of the Giants so you’re surrounded by towering old growth trees throughout this entire hike. A quieter but equally as gorgeous alternative to the very popular Founder’sGrove Trail. This short trail is perfect if you’re wanting something a bit more mellow.

Lodging in Humboldt Redwoods

Miranda Gardens Resort

This is the perfect place to stay if you are in the area for just a night or two. Located only 6.9 miles from the Redwoods, it is the perfect location for those wanting to get an early start to their elopement day. It has a cozy cottage feel and offers free breakfast in the morning! 

Avenue of the Giants Caraway Cottage

 If you are wanting a more intimate and cozy stay for your elopement, then you need to check out this Airbnb. This cozy cottage has 2 patios surrounded by meadows which is perfect for waking up slowly and enjoying your morning coffee. Located just 10 miles from Humboldt Redwoods, it is only a short drive away to the park and ideal if you are planning an adventurous elopement. 

Best Hidden Secret in the Redwoods. BEL Rancho

Located near the park in Miranda, CA this Airbnb is about 15 miles from Humboldt Redwoods. It is nestled between tall trees and has an epic panoramic view of the Salmon Creek Valley. 

Treehouse Getaway

Located in Garberville, this isn’t the closest location but it’s probably the most unique stay. Located about 20 miles from Humboldt Redwoods, it is only about 5 minutes from the Eel River and Avenue of the Giants. What makes this Airbnb so unique is that it is an actual treehouse which just makes it that much more fun. It is a cozy 1 bed, 1 bath that has access to a hot tub, pool, and outdoor fireplace.

Activities in Humboldt Redwoods

Shrine Drive Through Tree

If you’re wanting the experience of driving through these towering giants, Shrine drive through tree is one of the three trees that you can actually drive your car through! Shrine is the oldest tree but also the most narrow to drive through. $10.00 admission per car: all drive through trees are privately owned and range from $5-$10 for admission.

Mountain Biking

The majority of the land that the Redwoods grow on is relatively flat which makes for great, enjoyable mountain biking. There are more difficult mountain biking trails if you’re up for a more challenging trail. You can rent bikes from Wildtrail Tours. These guys do both rentals and guided tours if that’s more of your style!

Swimming and Sunbathing

Since Humboldt Redwoods runs along the Eel river, there’s no shortage of places to access the river for the day. The Eel river is known for its clear water, towering Redwood trees surrounding it, and its isolation. You can often have whole sections of this river completely to yourself

Coffee Shops/Restaurants in or near Humboldt Redwoods

Henry Cowell Redwoods: 1.25 hours from San Francisco

Hiking Options for after your Elopement Ceremony in Henry Cowell Redwoods

Fall Creek to Lime Kilns trail

This trail is about 3.3 miles of easy hiking that typically takes around 90 minutes to complete. This trail runs alongside of a creek and below new growth trees. This hike is more of a long nature walk than a hike. It is one of the more popular hikes in the park so even on a weekday you can expect to pass people on this trail. If you enjoy local history, this hike takes you to the kilns that were used to process Lime (a key ingredient of plaster and mortar) after the Gold Rush in the 19th century. These kilns are about all that remains from California’s once booming Lime industry.

Ox Road Trail to Garden of Eden

Ox Road Trail is about 1.6 miles of easy hiking and takes about 1 hour to complete. This trail follows a river to a local swimming spot known as “Garden of Eden.” Railroad tracks run along the trail for the majority of the way which is pretty cool. This trail is also pretty popular so you can expect to see other hikers on this trail. If you’re into birding, this is a great trail to see some cool birds!

Lodging in Henry Cowell Redwoods

Fern River Resort

Located in Felton, 1 mile from Henry Cowell Redwoods, this resort is nestled in a grove of Redwoods and offers river access on the property. You’ll have access to game areas in addition to access to the river where you can go for a swim or sunbathe. While Fern River Resort feels isolated from civilization, it’s only 15 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz. And if you end up doing the steam train, the train station is only 10 minutes from the resort.

Vintage Creekside Hideaway

Located in Felton, just outside of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, this Airbnb is truly a one of a kind experience. You’ll be glamping in a cozy renovated trailer surrounded by Redwood trees and lights to enjoy cozy evenings outside. The most unique aspect of this stay is the outside tub where you can soak with a view of trees and the twinkling lights.

Enjoy Private Redwoods from Your Bed or the Deck

This beautiful Airbnb is Located in Scotts Valley, 5 miles from Henry Cowell RedwoodsState Park. The cabin is nestled among a forest off a dirt road which ensures that you have seclusion and privacy. The greenhouse outdoor tub is the most unique part of this property. It allows you to soak in a panoramic view of the forest from the inside of a glass greenhouse. It is located 10 minutes from the ocean which is perfect if you’re wanting to get some beach time in during your stay. 

Activities in Henry Cowell Redwoods

Coffee Shops/Restaurants in or near Henry Cowell Redwoods

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Redwoods Elopement Photographer

As a Redwoods Elopement Photographer, I have tons of knowledge when it comes to planning an epic elopement. As someone who is super passionate about my job, I don’t want to just be your photographer. I want to help you with the planning process, finding locations, places to stay, vendors, and most of all help you figure out solutions when things derail. It’s your wedding day and the last thing you should be doing is stressing out. I want ensure that my couples have the best day possible and that means being a shoulder for them to lean on when problems arise!

Additional Resources

• The Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Brookings
• A & Z’s S Redwood National Park and Oregon Coast Elopement
• How to keep costs low without sacrificing your wedding experience.
• Best Redwood National Park Elopement Locations | Redwoods Elopement Photographer
• California Redwoods and Oregon Coast Elopement | M + B