Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park

Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park is an 1,833-acre protected area in the Oakland hills containing the largest natural stand of coast redwoods in the East Bay. These trees stand as the forest's tallest residents, with some exceeding 150 feet.

Heavy logging in the 1800s removed much of the original forest to provide lumber for Bay Area development. The trees visible today grew back over generations, forming what is now called a third-growth forest.

The park's name honors Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt, a Mills College president who helped establish the Park District Board in its early years. This dedication reflects the community's commitment to recognizing local leaders who shaped public lands.

The park provides about 40 miles of trails suitable for hiking, jogging, and horseback riding across different forest sections. Entrances are clearly marked and parking is available at multiple gates, with fees charged during the warmer months.

One original redwood tree survives near Merritt College, rising 93 feet from a rocky outcrop that prevented loggers from reaching it. This tree escaped the saw because of its impossible-to-access location on the stone face.

Location: Alameda County

Operator: East Bay Regional Park District

Website: http://ebparks.org/parks/redwood

GPS coordinates: 37.81356,-122.16592

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:59