Redwood Creek Proposed Wild and Scenic River

Redwood Creek

Redwood Creek and its tributaries flow through or are located upstream of Redwood National Park. They provide important habitat for threatened and endangered salmon and steelhead and nationally significant recreation opportunities.

Redwood Creek flows past old growth and second growth redwoods in Redwood National Park, including the tallest tree on earth. The park is a World Heritage Site recognized by the United Nations. The creek supports endangered coho and Chinook salmon, steelhead, and coastal cutthroat trout. Federal officials recently identified the creek as essential for the recovery of threatened salmon and steelhead. Ospreys nest along the creek and elk graze nearby prairies. The popular Redwood Creek Trail parallels much of the stream, which also offers class III whitewater boating opportunities.

After its journey through Redwood National Park, Redwood Creek flows past the small community of Orick, and into the Pacific Ocean. Approximately 20 miles of Redwood Creek are located in Redwood National Park. The upper 6.2 miles of Redwood Creek is proposed as a “potential” Wild and Scenic River pending acquisition for public conservation purposes.

The creek supports a diverse anadromous fishery, including endangered Coho and Chinook salmon, steelhead, and coastal cutthroat trout. Ospreys nest along the creek, elk wander its banks, and river otter play in the creek’s riffle and pools.

One of the most popular trails in the Park, the Redwood Creek Trail parallels much of the creek and leads to the Tall Trees Grove. The Redwood Creek Trailhead picnic area and the Elam and 44 Camp backcountry camps offer respite for hikers and backpackers. The Redwood National Park Information Center is located near the mouth of Redwood Creek and the Pacific Ocean.


Management Agency:  National Park Service ~ Redwood National Park
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) ~ Arcata Field Office

Location:  Humboldt County, CA 2nd Congressional District

Watershed: Redwood Creek

Proposed Wild & Scenic River Miles:  25.3

Outstanding Values: Anadromous fisheries, wildlife, ecological, recreation, World Heritage Site