Portola Redwoods State Park
High Traffic Alert
This park experiences heavy crowds, especially on weekends.
Check out the similar parks below for a better experience
Popular destination, arrive early for parking
Best: Weekdays before 10am
Deep in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Portola protects one of the most pristine old-growth redwood groves on the peninsula. Far from Highway 1, this park sees fewer visitors than coastal redwood parks, offering solitude beneath towering giants. Peters Creek flows through the park, creating pools perfect for summer wading. Challenging trails climb ridges for views of Butano Creek canyon. The Slate Creek Trail connects to adjacent parks, creating extended backpacking options. Summer fog keeps the forest cool and moist.
* State park fees vary by park, season, and residency. Confirm current rates on the official website.
Accepted Passes
Try These Instead
These parks offer similar experiences with fewer crowds
Redwood National and State Parks
Tallest trees on Earth in misty coastal forests
Why go: Similar forest, old-growth forest, hiking experience
Around 290 miles away
