Redwood State Park Scenic Parkway Spring

## Overview Redwood State Park Scenic Parkway Spring is a public drinking spring located along the scenic parkway corridor of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park in Del Norte County, California. Situated at approximately 41.394°N, 124.022°W, this spring emerges in the heart of one of the last remaining old-growth coast redwood (*Sequoia sempervirens*) forests on Earth. The surrounding landscape is characterized by towering ancient redwoods, lush fern-covered understories, and the misty, temperate rainforest climate typical of California's far north coast. The spring sits near the famed Howland Hill Road corridor — a narrow, unpaved scenic route that winds through some of the most spectacular old-growth groves in the entire redwood ecosystem. Springs in this region are fed by abundant rainfall (the area receives upwards of 80 inches annually) filtering through rich, ancient forest soils and fractured bedrock, often producing cool, clear water. This spring has historically served as a convenient water source for travelers and hikers exploring the parkway. ## Directions 1. From Crescent City, California, head east on Elk Valley Road. 2. Continue as the road transitions into Howland Hill Road, a narrow and mostly unpaved scenic route that passes through old-growth redwood groves. 3. Follow Howland Hill Road southeast into Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. 4. The spring is located along the parkway at GPS coordinates **41.3939, -124.0220**. Watch for a small pullout or clearing near the roadside where the spring emerges. 5. Note: Howland Hill Road is not suitable for large RVs or trailers. The road can be rough and narrow, especially during the wet season. *These directions are approximate and based on GPS coordinates. It is recommended to use a GPS device or mapping app to navigate to the precise location.* ## What to Expect Visitors to this spring will find themselves immersed in one of the most awe-inspiring forest environments in North America. The surrounding old-growth redwoods can exceed 300 feet in height and over 1,000 years in age, creating a cathedral-like canopy overhead. The forest floor is blanketed with sword ferns, redwood sorrel, and mosses, and the air is often cool and fragrant with the scent of damp earth and evergreen. The spring itself is a roadside water source along the scenic parkway. Water flow may vary seasonally — expect stronger flow during the rainy months (typically October through April) and potentially reduced output during the drier summer and early fall. The water has historically been used as a drinking water source by park visitors, though water quality can change over time and with weather conditions. The area around the spring offers excellent opportunities for short walks among the redwoods, photography, and quiet contemplation. Cell service is limited to nonexistent in this part of the park, so plan accordingly. The road and surrounding trails can be muddy during wet weather, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Wildlife in the area includes Roosevelt elk, black bears, and a rich variety of bird species.