Why the Avenue of the Giants Is the Road Trip You Didn’t Know You Needed

Have you ever stood beside a tree so tall you couldn’t see the top?

These trees are awe-inspiring. Imagine standing next to and gazing up at some of the largest living things in the world. Some more than 2000 years old. That’s exactly what you will experience on the Avenue of the Giants.

This isn’t just a road. It’s a 31-mile scenic highway that winds through some of the oldest and tallest trees on Earth—redwoods that have stood here for over a thousand years. Located in Northern California’s Humboldt Redwoods State Park, this route is often overshadowed by flashier national parks. But that’s what makes it special. It’s quiet. It’s wild. And it feels like stepping into a forgotten world.

What You’ll See (and Feel)

There are no theme parks here. No fast food chains. Just the sound of your footsteps on soft earth and the wind whispering through massive trunks that could fit cars inside them. You’ll pass through groves with names like “Founders Grove,” “Immortal Tree,” and “The Chimney Tree,” each with its own story and ancient scars from fire, storms, and time.

And yet, they’re still standing.

You’ll see golden beams of sunlight break through a thick canopy. Ferns, wild mushrooms, and moss cover the forest floor like a green carpet. It’s not just beautiful—it’s spiritual.

A Hidden Gem for Travelers and Thinkers

The Avenue of the Giants isn’t crowded like Yosemite or the Grand Canyon. Here, you can think. You can breathe. You can pull over almost anywhere, step out, and disappear into silence.

For hikers, there are dozens of short trails, each one slightly different. Some take you deep into cathedral-like groves, while others follow the Eel River, where you can stop for a picnic or a swim. For photographers, it’s a dream. For nature-lovers, it’s a reminder that there are still places the modern world hasn’t ruined.

What This Journey Taught Me

Being there made me realize something: these trees have survived fire, flood, and even logging. They are a symbol of resilience and strength. And walking among them reminded me how important it is to slow down and connect—with nature, with others, and with ourselves.