Private Avenue of the Giants Redwoods Day Trip from San Francisco

The Private Avenue of the Giants Redwoods Day Trip from San Francisco offers a full-day adventure into California’s awe-inspiring redwood forests at a premium price of $1,449 per person. This tour, lasting approximately 10 to 12 hours, includes private transportation, all fees, and a dedicated guide, making it ideal for travelers seeking an intimate and personalized experience. The tour departs early at 7:00 am from San Francisco, ensuring plenty of daylight to explore some of the tallest and oldest redwoods in the world.

What sets this trip apart is its focus on iconic natural landmarks like Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Avenue of the Giants, and extraordinary stops such as the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree and Chandelier Tree. While the journey involves a significant drive, the highlights and exclusive stops make it well worth the effort, especially for those who want a comprehensive, private experience with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
• The tour includes visits to Humboldt Redwoods State Park and the Avenue of the Giants scenic route.
• Highlights include the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree and Chandelier Tree, which you can drive through.
• The trip features walks and hikes among world’s tallest trees and a visit to the Eternal Tree House.
• The tour offers complimentary bottled water and all applicable fees and taxes are included.
• This experience is not suitable for travelers with disabilities or those prone to motion sickness.

Scenic Drive from San Francisco to the Redwoods

This private tour begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle departing from San Francisco at 7:00 am. The drive to the redwoods takes approximately 4+ hours, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the scenic countryside en route. The journey is designed to maximize time spent in California’s majestic forests, with a focus on quality and comfort.

The route takes you south of Redwood National Parks to reach the Humboldt Redwoods State Park, home to one of the largest and tallest groves of coast redwoods in the world. The drive offers passing views of lush landscapes, making the long hours feel engaging rather than tiresome.

Exploring Humboldt Redwoods State Park and Founders Grove

Once at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, the tour guides you through the Founders Grove, where towering trees dwarf visitors and leave lasting impressions. This area hosts some of the tallest trees on Earth and is part of the Rockefeller Forest, known as the world’s largest contiguous old-growth redwood forest.

The guided walk here emphasizes the significance of the redwoods, with commentary provided by experienced guides who explain the history and ecological importance of these giants. Visitors can expect a walk among ancient trees, feeling their size and age firsthand.

Driving Along the Iconic Avenue of the Giants

The 31-mile Avenue of the Giants is the centerpiece of this tour. As the scenic route unfolds, visitors enjoy numerous viewpoints and perfect spots for photography. The route is famous for its dramatic landscapes, with redwoods lining both sides of the road, creating a tunnel of green.

The drive is leisurely, allowing plenty of stops at viewpoints, where the scenery offers spectacular photo opportunities. The route’s length and scenery make it a highlight, especially for those interested in immersive nature drives.

Visiting the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree

A unique feature of this tour is the chance to drive through the Shrine Tree. This massive redwood has a natural tunnel carved out by nature, allowing vehicles to pass through the trunk. This stop provides an unforgettable photo moment and a fun perspective on the size of these ancient trees.

Travelers should note that the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree is a popular stop, so it can be crowded at peak times, but the experience of passing through such a massive living organism remains memorable.

Marveling at the Chandelier Tree

Another iconic attraction is the Chandelier Tree, a hollowed-out redwood that visitors can drive through. This drive-through tree is notable for its size and the fact that it’s a hollow tree that you can actually pass through in your vehicle, offering a rare chance to see a living giant from the inside.

The Chandelier Tree adds a sense of adventure and wonder to the day, showcasing the extraordinary scale of California’s redwoods.

Discovering the Eternal Tree House

One of the more whimsical stops is the Eternal Tree House, perched high among the redwoods. This treehouse, built into the branches of a redwood, offers a quirky insight into how humans have interacted with these trees beyond just viewing them from the ground. The visit to the Eternal Tree House provides a fun contrast to the towering forest and adds a unique photo opportunity.

Hiking in the Tall Tree Grove

For those interested in an active element, the tour includes access to the Tall Tree Grove. Here, visitors walk among some of the world’s tallest trees, experiencing firsthand the majesty of California’s coastal redwoods. The hikes are manageable and allow for closer observation of the forest’s natural beauty and ecological complexity.

The Convenience of Private & All-Inclusive Travel

This tour provides private transportation throughout, ensuring comfort and flexibility. All fees and taxes are included in the price, along with complimentary bottled water. The tour is designed for those with a moderate physical fitness level, as some walking and hiking are involved, but it is not suited for those with disabilities or who are prone to motion sickness.

The pickup and drop-off service within San Francisco adds to the convenience, making the experience seamless from start to finish.

What Reviews Highlight About This Tour

The sole review available praises the tour highly, describing it as “Amazing, Awesome, Do It!” The reviewer emphasizes that Avenue of the Giants is a must-see for anyone into redwoods. They appreciate the drive’s beauty and consider it well worth the time, reinforcing the tour’s value for those looking for a comprehensive and personalized redwood experience.

The Value for Nature Lovers and Photography Enthusiasts

While the $1,449 price may seem steep, the inclusion of private guidance, all entrance fees, bottled water, and access to exclusive stops justifies the cost for visitors seeking a luxury, tailored experience. The tour’s focus on scenic drives, iconic trees, and photo-worthy stops makes it particularly appealing to those who want a premium, in-depth exploration of California’s redwoods.

Final Thoughts on the Private Avenue of the Giants Tour

This private day trip offers an in-depth look at California’s breathtaking redwoods with the intimacy of a guided experience. The scenic route, drive-through trees, and walks among ancient giants make it a standout, especially for those willing to indulge in a longer, more personalized adventure.

Although the price is higher than group tours, the private vehicle, expert guide, and exclusive stops create a memorable journey that’s well suited for nature lovers seeking comfort and exclusivity. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to see the tallest trees on Earth with a smooth, hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not recommended for travelers with disabilities because the vehicles are not equipped for passengers with mobility impairments.

What is the main highlight of this trip?
The drive along the Avenue of the Giants and the chance to drive through the Shrine Tree and Chandelier Tree are the most distinctive features, offering memorable views and photo opportunities.

How long is the drive from San Francisco?
The journey takes approximately 4+ hours one way to reach the redwoods, making it a full-day adventure with plenty of time spent exploring.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, all fees and taxes, bottled water, and a private guide. Tips and alcoholic beverages are not included.

Can I expect to do any hiking?
Yes, the tour includes walking among the Tall Tree Grove to experience the world’s tallest trees. The walks are manageable but require a moderate fitness level.