Virtual Guidebook to the Northern California Coast and Coast Ranges
Richardson Grove State Park
South Fork of the Eel River California

At Richardson Grove Highway 101 abruptly narrows, the speed limit drops, and suddenly you drive into the semi-darkness of an old-growth redwood grove. In places the big trees are right up against the pavement, to the chagrin of the truck drivers who blast through as fast as they can.

Richardson Grove is unfortunately impacted by the highway (steep slopes all around make a bypass difficult) but it is worth stopping. If you are heading north this is the first really prime grove directly on the highway, so take a look around. The alluvial flat redwood grove is impressive, and there are also hiking trails, a nature trail, river access, a visitor center, and a campground.