James Irvine Trail

James Irvine Trail

James Irvine Trail

Location: Prairie Creek Redwood State Park, Humboldt County, CA
Miles: 7.5 miles
Difficulty: easy – moderate
Duration: 3 hours
Users: Dogs, horses, and bikes not permitted. No wheelchair access.

Features: ancient forest/old growth, redwood forest, lush ravines, ferns and sorrel, breathtaking atmosphere

Trail: This trail is a loop. From the trailhead, hike 0.6 miles to the junction with James Irvine Trail. Follow the John Irvine Trail for 2.6 miles. Turn left on the Clintonia Trail and hike 1.4 miles. Follow the Miners Ridge Trail 2.7 miles back to the visitors center.

This 12-mile (19 km) loop starts adjacent to the Prairie Creek Visitor Center. Pick up a hiking map for the trail from the park visitor center and familiarize yourself with the trail. This trail is recommended for a wonderful introduction to Redwoods.

We suggest hiking on a sunny summer day since the trail has a well shaded path. It develops from different surroundings with a redwood-lined ridgetop to a wide-open undeveloped beach, and finally through profuse creek valley.

Top 3 Adventure Hacks

1) Bring your binoculars

There will plenty of opportunities for you to use your binoculars to view wildlife, birds, and nice views.

2) Stay alert

While we may adore the majestic elk and black bear, make sure you don’t startle them. They are commonly seen roaming through these woods. Caution and a safe distance should always be maintained.

3) Bring a snack

This is a long trail so you might get hungry, never hurts to bring some trail mix.