There is a special kind of quiet found only in an ancient forest, a stillness that seems to absorb sound and soften the edges of the world. Now, imagine moving through that cathedral of trees not encased in metal and glass, but with the gentle rhythm of your own breath and the soft whir of a bicycle chain. This is the unique magic of cycling the Redwoods of Northern California’s Avenue of the Giants. The experience is less about speed and distance, and more about immersion, allowing you to become a part of the landscape in a way that feels both humbling and exhilarating.
The Avenue of the Giants is a 31-mile stretch of old Highway 101 that winds its way through Humboldt Redwoods State Park, home to the largest remaining contiguous old-growth coastal redwood forest on the planet. While many visitors drive this route, traveling it on two wheels offers a completely different perspective. You are not just passing by the giants; you are moving among them, close enough to touch their grooved bark and look straight up into a canopy that filters the sunlight into a soft, green glow. The scale of these trees is almost impossible to comprehend until you are there, a tiny figure pedaling slowly through a forest that has stood for millennia.
Why Cycling is the Perfect Way to Experience the Avenue
Driving the Avenue is beautiful, but it can feel rushed. You’re separated from the environment by your car, and the stops at designated groves, while impressive, can feel a bit like checking items off a list. On a bicycle, the journey itself is the destination. The pace is slow enough to notice the subtle details—the way the light shifts through the ferns, the scent of damp earth and redwood bark, the sound of a nearby river. You can stop spontaneously wherever you like, pulling over to walk a short trail or simply sit and absorb the grandeur. It’s an active, sensory experience that connects you deeply to the place.
Planning Your Two-Wheeled Adventure
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your ride is as enjoyable as possible. The Avenue is generally flat with gentle rollers, making it accessible to cyclists of various fitness levels. You can choose to ride the entire length or just select scenic sections. The road is well-maintained, but it is a active roadway shared with cars, so practicing good cycling etiquette is essential. Always ride single file in the direction of traffic, use hand signals, and wear bright clothing. While traffic is usually respectful and slow-moving, being predictable and visible is key to a safe trip.
Cycling the Redwoods of Northern California’s Avenue of the Giants: A Practical Guide
Let’s talk about the nuts and bolts of your ride. The most common starting point is the small town of Myers Flat, roughly in the middle of the Avenue, which has services and parking. From there, you can head north or south. The northern section towards Weott and Pepperwood offers stunning views and access to the Founders Grove. The southern stretch towards Miranda is equally beautiful and slightly less traveled. Be sure to carry water and snacks, as services are limited along the route itself. A repair kit for flat tires is also a wise idea. Cell service can be spotty, so consider downloading an offline map or picking up a paper one from a local visitor center.
Must-See Stops Along the Way
While the entire ride is a highlight, there are a few iconic spots you won’t want to miss. The Immortal Tree is a remarkable redwood that has survived lightnings strikes, floods, and loggers’ axes. The Founders Grove features a short, flat loop trail that is perfect for a walk and showcases the Dyerville Giant, a fallen titan that is awe-inspiring even in its repose. Further south, the Rockefeller Forest is the largest contiguous old-growth redwood forest in the world, and a detour into its heart is a profound experience. Don’t feel you have to see them all; sometimes the most memorable moments are the quiet ones you find on your own.
Respecting the Giants and Their Home
This is a fragile ecosystem that demands our respect. Stay on designated roads and trails to protect the sensitive root systems of the redwoods, which are surprisingly shallow. Pack out anything you pack in, and resist the urge to carve into the bark or take souvenirs. These trees are living monuments, and our collective responsibility is to ensure they remain undisturbed for generations of cyclists to come. Remember you are a guest in their ancient home.
Cycling the Avenue of the Giants is more than just a bike ride; it’s a journey into a different scale of time and space. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and witness one of nature’s most magnificent creations from the best seat possible—the saddle of a bicycle. The memory of the cool, fragrant air and the sight of those colossal trunks reaching for the sky will stay with you long after the ride is over.