Avenue of the Giants

The Avenue of the Giants is a state road that winds through dense redwood forests in northern California, following the Eel River for about 31 miles. The route passes through several small towns including Phillipsville, Miranda, and Weott, with numerous pullouts and camping areas along the way.

Originally part of US Route 101, the road became California State Route 254 after a new freeway bypass was completed in 1960. This rerouting of main traffic allowed it to transform from a busy highway into a quieter passage through the forest.

The name reflects the towering trees that line both sides of the road, creating a sense of reverence for nature. Visitors pass through groves where the ancient giants dominate the landscape and shape the entire experience of traveling here.

The best time to drive is on clear days when light filters through the canopy and the forest surroundings are most visible. The route has many pullouts where visitors can stop and take short walks to experience the redwoods up close.

Founders Grove contains an individual tree over 340 feet tall and features a short walking trail through the forest interior that many visitors overlook. This accessible walk offers one of the most direct encounters with the scale and presence of the ancient trees.