Giant Redwood Tree

The Stout Memorial Grove Trail offers an enchanting, easy walk through a primeval old-growth redwood forest in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. You'll find yourself surrounded by towering giants, some up to 300 feet tall, with a lush understory of ferns and redwood sorrel creating a serene, almost magical atmosphere. The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it an ideal choice for families and those seeking a quick, high-impact redwood experience.

This popular route is a short 0.6-mile (0.9 km) loop with minimal elevation gain of just 15 feet (5 metres), taking approximately 14 minutes to complete. To ensure a peaceful visit and avoid parking issues, plan to arrive early in the morning, especially during peak season. While the main trail is easy, it's not ADA accessible due to natural terrain and some access points.

Known as the "heart" of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, the Stout Memorial Grove is home to the magnificent Stout Tree, a colossal redwood measuring 16 feet in diameter. The grove's unique ecosystem, shaped by the nearby Smith River's floodwaters, has allowed coastal redwoods to dominate, creating an incredibly pure and impressive redwood forest. It's a truly special place to connect with nature's ancient wonders.

This loop trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to walk among some of the largest and oldest trees on Earth, immersing you in the ancient redwood forests of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. You'll wander through the peaceful Stout Memorial Grove, known for its towering, 2,000-year-old giants and lush fern carpets, before heading to the renowned Grove of Titans, where an elevated boardwalk protects the delicate ecosystem around colossal redwoods. The Hiouchi Trail portion provides scenic views along the Smith River, making for a varied and memorable experience.

This moderate 8.2-mile (13.1 km) hiking route involves about 332 feet (101 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes to complete. While the Stout Memorial Grove is generally easy with wide dirt paths, the Grove of Titans features a 1,500-foot elevated boardwalk with steps, adding a moderate challenge. Starting from a trailhead near Hiouchi, it's best to plan your visit during dry conditions; a summer footbridge over the Smith River can offer convenient access to Stout Grove from the campground.

What sets this route apart is its combination of two of the park's most magnificent redwood groves, offering a comprehensive journey through these majestic giants. The elevated boardwalk in the Grove of Titans is a testament to preservation efforts, allowing sustainable viewing of these remarkable trees. This loop is a fantastic option for those seeking a deep connection with nature and an appreciation for the sheer scale of the natural world, without requiring an overly strenuous physical effort.