How to Get to Redwood National Park from Los Angeles [2025 Guide]
To get to Redwood National Park from Los Angeles, you can either drive directly, which takes about 11-12 hours, or fly to a nearby airport like Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) or Crescent City Airport (CEC), and then rent a car or take a bus.
🌲 Why Visit Redwood National Park from Los Angeles?
Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California are home to the tallest trees in the world, breathtaking coastal trails, and wildlife-rich landscapes. While Los Angeles is nearly 700 miles south of the park, the journey is worth it for anyone seeking nature, hiking, and iconic California scenery.
Since there’s no airport inside the park, travelers from LA need to choose between flying, driving, or combining public transport to reach the redwoods.
🚗 Option 1: Driving from Los Angeles to Redwood National Park
Driving is the most flexible way to visit the park.
- Distance: ~700 miles (1,125 km)
- Driving Time: 11–13 hours without long stops
- Best Route: I-5 North → US-199 (Crescent City entrance) or US-101 (Eureka entrance)
- Gas & Tolls: ~$120–$160 one way (depending on car type)
👉 Many travelers split the drive into two days, stopping in San Francisco or Mendocino along the Pacific Coast for scenic views.
✈️ Option 2: Flying from Los Angeles to Redwood National Park
The closest airports to Redwood National and State Parks are:
- Eureka/Arcata Airport (ACV): ~30 miles from park, best option
- Crescent City Airport (CEC): ~10 miles from the northern park entrances
- Medford Airport (MFR – Oregon): ~85 miles away
Flight Details:
- Airlines: United (to ACV), Avelo, and smaller regional carriers
- Duration: ~2 hours (LAX → ACV direct, or 3–5 hrs with layovers)
- Cost (2025): $120–$300 round trip economy
👉 Once you land, you’ll need a rental car to explore, since public transportation inside the park is limited.
✅ Compare the best hotel deals and offers in your destination before you book.
🚌 Option 3: Bus from Los Angeles to Redwood National Park
For budget travelers, Greyhound and FlixBus connect Los Angeles to Northern California.
- Route: LA → San Francisco or Sacramento → Arcata/Eureka
- Time: 17–22 hours
- Cost: $70–$120 one way
- Note: Not ideal for short trips, but useful if you’re traveling light.
🚆 Option 4: Train from Los Angeles to Redwood National Park
While there’s no direct Amtrak station inside the park, you can get close by combining train + bus.
- Step 1: Amtrak Coast Starlight from Los Angeles (Union Station) to Eugene or Klamath Falls, Oregon (17–20 hours)
- Step 2: Transfer to an Amtrak Thruway bus to Crescent City or Arcata
- Total Time: ~20–24 hours
- Cost: $100–$180 one way
👉 This is a scenic but long journey, recommended for travelers who enjoy slow travel and beautiful landscapes.
📊 Travel Options Comparison
| Option | Total Travel Time | Cost (One Way) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚗 Drive | 11–13 hrs | $120–$160 | Flexibility, road trip lovers |
| ✈️ Flight (LAX → ACV/CEC) | 2–5 hrs + car rental | $120–$300 | Fastest & most convenient |
| 🚌 Bus | 17–22 hrs | $70–$120 | Budget travelers |
| 🚆 Train + Bus | 20–24 hrs | $100–$180 | Scenic slow travel |
🌍 Travel Tips for Visiting Redwood National Park in 2025
- Best Time to Visit: May–September for dry weather and hiking; December–February for fewer crowds and lush greenery.
- Park Pass: Redwood National and State Parks are free, but nearby state parks may charge entrance or parking fees.
- Pack Layers: The coast is often foggy and chilly, even in summer.
- Wildlife Safety: Keep a safe distance from elk and other animals.
✅ Compare the best hotel deals and offers in your destination before you book.
🙋 FAQs About Getting to Redwood National Park from Los Angeles
1. How far is Redwood National Park from Los Angeles?
It’s about 700 miles north of Los Angeles, or an 11–13 hour drive.
2. Can you fly directly from Los Angeles to Redwood National Park?
Yes, you can fly directly into Eureka/Arcata (ACV) from Los Angeles on United Airlines.
3. What’s the cheapest way to get to Redwood National Park from Los Angeles?
Taking a bus (Greyhound/FlixBus) is cheapest, though it takes 17–22 hours.
4. Do I need a car inside Redwood National Park?
Yes, a car is essential to reach trailheads and explore different groves.
5. Which entrance is best for first-time visitors?
The Prairie Creek entrance near Orick offers easy access to famous trails like Fern Canyon and Big Tree.
6. How many days should I spend in Redwood National Park?
At least 2–3 days to see the main highlights, but a full week if you want to hike multiple trails.
7. Is Redwood National Park open year-round?
Yes, the park is open 365 days a year, though some roads may close in winter due to weather.
✅ Final Takeaway: In 2025, the easiest way to get to Redwood National Park from Los Angeles is to fly into Eureka/Arcata Airport (ACV) and rent a car. If you prefer a road trip, the drive up US-101 is incredibly scenic and allows you to enjoy California’s coastline along the way.