This gentle loop through Lady Bird Johnson Grove offers something rare in the redwoods: easy access to old-growth forest without the crowds that pack the roadside groves. The 1.5-mile trail climbs just 101 feet through a mix of second-growth Douglas-fir and ancient redwoods that escaped the 1960s logging, making it approachable for families while still delivering the cathedral quiet that draws people to these parks.
Trail Details
- 🏃Activities
- Hiking
- 🔁Trail Type
- loop
- 📏Distance
- 1.5 miles
- 📍Location
- CA
- 🐕Dogs Allowed
- No
- 💵Fee
- Free
Overview
The trail starts in a Douglas-fir plantation next to the parking lot — trees replanted after the original redwoods were cut in the 1960s. It's a visible reminder of what was lost, but also what can return given time. After crossing a hikers' bridge about halfway through the loop, you enter the grove proper: 300 acres of old-growth redwoods that have never felt a saw.
The path follows an old logging road, which keeps grades gentle and footing predictable. At 1,200 feet elevation, the grove sits higher than most redwood walks, meaning cooler temperatures and more frequent fog. That elevation also puts you in a mixed forest where redwoods share space with Douglas-fir, tanoak, and other conifers — a different ecosystem than the pure redwood stands closer to sea level.
The Lady Bird Johnson dedication plaque sits about half a mile into the walk, marking the grove's designation in honor of the former First Lady's conservation work. It's a quiet spot to pause, though the real draw is simply being surrounded by trees that have been growing for centuries.
What to Expect
The trail surface varies between natural dirt and wooden bridging, typically at least six feet wide. Conditions stay relatively level throughout, with the hikers' bridge providing the only notable slope. That bridge isn't wheelchair accessible due to its grade, though visitors with all-terrain equipment have managed sections of the trail.
Expect mud during the wet season, which runs roughly November through May. The higher elevation means this grove stays damper longer than coastal trails, and morning fog is common even in summer. Pack a layer — temperatures can run 10-15 degrees cooler than down on Highway 101.
Crowds are manageable compared to the roadside groves, but summer weekends and holidays bring steady foot traffic. Ranger-led walks start from the parking lot during summer months, and a self-guided tour is available through the National Park Service app.
Tips & Logistics
Getting there requires navigating Bald Hills Road, a narrow, winding three-mile climb from Highway 101. The road has few pullouts and no turnaround spots, making it unsuitable for RVs, buses, or anything towing a trailer. Even passenger cars need to take it slow — expect 10-15 minutes of careful driving.
The parking lot is small and fills early on busy days. One van-accessible space is available, but overall parking is limited. Plan for a morning start during summer weekends.
Dogs aren't allowed on this trail, and standard park rules apply: no picking vegetation, pack out trash, stay on established paths. The trail is free to access, though if you're visiting multiple state park units in the area, the National Park Annual Pass can waive day-use fees elsewhere.
Water and restrooms are available at the trailhead. The trail itself has no facilities, but at 1.5 miles and minimal elevation gain, most hikers won't need resupply. Allow 30 minutes to an hour for the full loop, longer if you want to spend time among the big trees.