The Best Season To Visit Redwood National Park May Surprise You

Travelers who are hoping to take in the wonder and sights of California's Redwood Coast — an area that stretches California's northern shoreline, running from Shelter Cove to Klamath River — may be wondering when exactly they should plan to book their stay.

According to the area's experts, the answer to that question may vary depending on whether you're more interested in beating the crowds or getting to soak up some sunshine during your trip. Read on to learn what you can expect when you arrive, including which season is the best time to visit Redwood National Park.

Thanks to the region's mild weather, the park can receive visitors pretty much year-round, according to the Visit California website. That said, the website notes that you're more likely to see sunshine peeking through the tops of the massive redwood trees that fill Redwood National and State Parks and Humboldt Redwoods State Park if you visit between June and September.

Of course, there is a tradeoff to basking in the sun-dappled trail when you hike through the woods during those months... you're not going to be alone. Those months are among the most popular for travelers, which is why those who are looking for more solitude during their trip should opt for October through May. Sure, it will be a little wetter and chillier, but you're more likely to have the trail to yourself during the off-peak hours.

The Redwood Hikes blog says that summer is hands down the busiest time of the year for parkgoers, noting that you can expect to run into fellow hikers every few minutes on the trail. Additionally, parking gets a little tricker when more people head out to see the redwoods, which means you'll need to allow for more time when you're trying to get to and from the trail.

Visitors will need to be aware of the risk of forest fires, which commonly strike in August and September.

As you may have guessed, the fall will offer a unique experience for visitors, since some of the leaves will begin to change this time of year. Not only that, but you'll still get to enjoy mild temperatures, with very little chance of daytime rain until mid-November.

Once winter comes around, visitors can expect a lot more rain. The Redwood Hikes blog says that there's a 50 percent chance of rainfall every day, but that the rain can also bring create some beautiful and unique elements within the forest, including fog, mist, and verdant greenery.

This time of year can be a little unpredictable when it comes to traveling to and from the park, with some roads experiencing frequent closures during the winter.

According to some, spring is the ideal time to visit the park, especially if you visit from April through June. During spring, the weather is still clear and predictable, but you'll have a better chance of having the trail to yourself through most of your hike. Additionally, you'll get to experience some of those spring blooms, like massive pink rhododendrons, which add a nice pop of color amongst all of the green of the forest.