Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of Redwood National and State Park

Exploring the towering Redwoods of California becomes easy and flexible with the Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour of Redwood National and State Parks. Priced at $19.99 per group, this tour allows up to 8 people to enjoy over 100 points of interest across 2 to 3 hours of driving. It’s designed for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, with the freedom to skip stops or linger longer at favorites. The tour covers diverse locations like Tall Trees Grove, scenic drives on Howland Hill Road, and spectacular coastal views at Crescent Beach.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want comprehensive narration without the constraints of a scheduled guide. The offline capability and lifetime access make it a practical choice for visitors seeking flexibility and a rich storytelling experience, all while avoiding the need for WiFi or cell service. With consistent praise for its engaging narration and well-chosen stops, this tour offers a compelling way to experience the majestic redwoods and coastal scenery.

Key Points

• Self-guided audio tour with over 100 points of interest across Redwood National and State Parks
• Priced at $19.99 per group for up to 8 people, offering great value
• Duration of 2 to 3 hours, with flexible timing to suit your pace
• Offline access ensures no cell service is needed once downloaded
• Includes detailed stories, tips, and directions that play automatically based on location
• Stops include iconic redwood groves and coastal beaches, ideal for photography and nature walks

Starting Point and How to Access the Tour

The tour begins at Smith River Kayaks located at 12580 US-101, Smith River, CA 95567. After booking, participants receive an email and text with instructions on how to download the GuideAlong app and the tour itself. The app supports Apple and Google accounts for easy sign-in, allowing users to pre-download the tour over WiFi or cellular data. Once downloaded, the audio stories automatically play as you drive, thanks to GPS-based location tracking.

The ability to start, pause, or resume the tour at any time offers maximum flexibility. The tour is designed for most travelers, with free support available via phone, chat, or email if needed. It operates daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, making it easy to fit into any schedule.

Highlights of the Stops in Redwood National and State Parks

The tour includes a diverse range of stops, each offering unique sights and experiences:

Stout Grove: Iconic Redwoods Close-Up

Known for its tall, ancient redwoods, Stout Grove features an easy loop trail through some of the park’s most camera-worthy trees. With sunlight filtering through the massive trunks, visitors experience a tranquil atmosphere perfect for photography and peaceful walks. While entrance to the grove is free, parking and trail access are included in the tour.

Howland Hill Road: Scenic Drive Through Old-Growth Forest

This narrow, unpaved road takes travelers on an intimate drive past towering trees and moss-covered landscapes. It’s an excellent route for nature lovers and photographers seeking close-up views of redwoods in their natural habitat. The drive lasts about 10 minutes, offering a quiet, scenic experience without the need for a separate admission fee.

Crescent Beach: Coastal Views and Tide Pools

Stretching along the Pacific coast, Crescent Beach provides stunning ocean vistas, tide pools with marine life, and opportunities to observe seals and seabirds. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing seaside stroll or a picnic with the sound of waves in the background. The beach is free to visit, making it a popular stop for families and nature enthusiasts.

Trillium Falls Hike: Waterfall among Redwoods

A short, scenic hike leads to the charming Trillium Falls, surrounded by redwoods and ferns. The trail takes about 10 minutes to reach the falls, which offers a peaceful setting for photography and a deeper connection to the forest environment. This stop is perfect for visitors wanting a quick trail experience without strenuous effort or extra cost.

False Klamath: Rugged Coastline and Sea Stacks

For a rugged coastal experience, False Klamath features dramatic rock formations and crashing waves. Seabirds often nest here, and the scenic views of sea stacks make it a favorite for beachcombing and enjoying the wild coast. Access is free, though the terrain may be uneven for some visitors.

Simpson-Reed Trail: Redwoods and Ferns

This gentle trail winds through a dense redwood grove, with interpretive signs explaining the ecosystem. It’s an easy walk suitable for all ages, offering plenty of opportunities to spot ferns, moss, and towering trees. The trail lasts about 5 minutes and is free to access.

Bald Hills Road: Panoramic Views and Wildflowers

Bald Hills Road offers sweeping vistas of the redwoods, oak woodlands, and meadows. It’s a scenic drive with access to trailheads for hikes and seasonal wildflower displays. The drive takes approximately 10 minutes and is free, providing an excellent overview of the landscape.

Fern Canyon: Lush Coastal Foliage

This quiet cove is notable for its lush ferns and coastal flora. The tranquil environment is ideal for those seeking solitude and native plant scenery. The location is free to explore, and its peaceful setting contrasts nicely with the more forested stops.

Tall Trees Grove: The Tallest Trees

Accessible only via a hike into a remote valley, Tall Trees Grove contains some of the tallest trees in the world. A permit is required to visit, but once there, visitors experience a peaceful, secluded environment with remarkable specimens. The stop offers about 15 minutes of exploration and is included in the tour without additional cost once the permit is secured.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

The self-guided audio tour is designed for maximum flexibility. It allows for customized routes—whether you prefer a half-day, full-day, or multi-day exploration. The downloadable content ensures you can enjoy the experience offline, protecting you from spotty cell service, especially along the coast.

The group size is limited to 8 people per purchase, making it ideal for small families or intimate groups. The support team is available daily to assist with technical issues or questions, ensuring a smooth experience from download to exploring the stops.

The duration of 2 to 3 hours allows for a leisurely pace, with plenty of opportunities to stop at each location, take photos, or read the stories at your own speed. The tour is especially effective for those who enjoy narrative storytelling combined with stunning scenery, as the narrator provides entertaining and informative commentary that enhances the visit.

Comparing This Tour to Other Redwood Experiences

Unlike guided tours, this self-guided audio experience offers the advantage of customized pacing and offline access. The price point of $19.99 makes it a budget-friendly way to see multiple highlights without additional guide fees.

It’s similar to other self-guided tours available in California, but what sets this apart is the comprehensive range of stops, from redwood groves to coastal beaches. The lifetime access and regular free updates ensure that the tour remains current and valuable for future visits.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits travelers who prefer to explore independently without a guide, yet want the depth of storytelling that enhances their experience. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a cost-effective, flexible way to see the park’s highlights. Those looking for easy access to scenic spots and informative narration will find this tour particularly rewarding.

The ability to tailor the visit to personal interests—whether more time at redwoods or seaside walks—makes this tour appealing for a variety of outdoor enthusiasts. Nature lovers and photographers will appreciate the detailed descriptions and scenic stops designed to maximize their enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access the tour after booking?
After booking, you receive an email and text with instructions to download the GuideAlong app and the tour. Sign in with your Apple or Google account, then download the tour to enjoy offline access.

Can I use this tour for a full day or multiple visits?
Yes, the tour has no expiry date and can be used for half-day, full-day, or multi-day explorations. You can start and stop whenever you like.

Is the tour suitable for all ages and mobility levels?
Most travelers can participate. Stops vary from scenic drives and short walks to accessible trails, though some areas like Fern Canyon and Tall Trees Grove may require more walking.

Are there any additional costs during the tour?
Most stops are free, but some, like Tall Trees Grove, require a permit. The tour price covers the audio guide and stops included in the itinerary.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a fully charged device with the app downloaded, a charger or power bank, and comfortable clothing suited for walking and coastal weather.

How long does each stop typically last?
Stops range from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your interest and the location, allowing for a relaxed exploration.

Is there support if I encounter technical issues?
Yes, the support team is available daily via toll-free phone, chat, and email to assist with setup or technical problems.

What if my plans change?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if your travel plans shift.

This Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour of Redwood National and State Parks offers an enriching, flexible, and budget-friendly way to experience California’s majestic redwoods and rugged coastlines. With engaging narration and diverse stops, it transforms a simple drive into an insightful adventure suitable for a range of outdoor explorers.