The Lady Bird Johnson Grove, named after a notable former First Lady of the United States, ranks among my top hiking experiences at Redwood National Park. Nestled within a magical grove of old-growth redwood forest, it offers a beautiful hike ideal for families and a highlight of any itinerary in Redwood National Park. About 3 miles off Highway 101 along a somewhat narrow and winding road, Lady Bird Johnson Grove is a popular hiking destination, and rightfully so.
Located at the southern end of Redwood National Park, you will know you’ve reached the correct parking lot and trailhead after passing under a pedestrian overpass bridge, which marks the start of the hike through Lady Bird Johnson Grove. Situated off the scenic yet bumpy and precarious Bald Hills Road, the parking area has ample space. However, it can fill up quickly during the peak summer season, especially during the late morning to late afternoon. It’s important to note that parking along Bald Hills Road is not safe or allowed. RVs or vehicles with trailers are not recommended due to the narrowness and winding nature of the road, and the parking lot is too small for such vehicles. Vault toilets are available at the parking lot.
The trail begins at the overpass bridge with an easy path that remains so throughout, creating a relaxing 1.5-mile (2 km) loop through this renowned redwood grove. Typically taking between 45 minutes to an hour, the hike’s duration varies based on one’s pace and stops for pictures or to enjoy the forest’s beauty. With my seven-year-old daughter in tow, our hike extended to approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, considering – in her words – her “short little legs.” Pets are not allowed on this trail, as with all trails within Redwood National Park. Open year-round, the trail requires no reservations or activity fees.
As mentioned, the grove and trail are named in honor of one of the United States’ most respected First Ladies, Lady Bird Johnson. The wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson, the nation’s 36th President, she assumed the role after his inauguration following President John F. Kennedy’s tragic assassination in 1963. Throughout her short tenure as First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson was notably active in advocating for promoting, protecting, and establishing natural habitats, including those within Redwood National Park. Her involvement in these conservation efforts led her to the grove site on November 25th, 1968, where she participated in the dedication of Redwood National Park. Nearly a year later, in August of 1969, President Richard Nixon bestowed the honor of having the grove named after her, recognizing Lady Bird Johnson’s unwavering dedication to preserving America’s natural beauty for future generations.
Hikers can enjoy the Lady Bird Johnson Grove on their own or join one of the ranger-led walks held during the summer, which begins at the parking lot. Numerous informative trail signs are scattered throughout the grove, and an online version can be accessed via the NPS digital app. This trail uniquely allows visitors to walk just a few steps through a second-growth forest into an old-growth redwood forest. Most trees next to the parking lot are second-growth Douglas firs planted after the ancient redwoods were logged in the 1960s. Once you cross the pedestrian bridge, you will be surrounded by an old-growth redwood forest that has never been logged 🙌🏼. The stark contrast between new growth and old growth highlights the beauty and peacefulness of the untouched redwoods, making the hike through Lady Bird Johnson Grove a genuinely unforgettable experience.
Overall, a hike through Lady Bird Johnson Grove makes for a wonderful day hike and was a highlight of our trip to Redwood National Park. Given the extensive logging history of the area, strolling through a beautiful old-growth redwood forest is a rare and precious experience, even within Redwood National Park. Today, visitors pass through thousands of acres of second-growth forests before encountering the rare pockets of old-growth redwoods like those found at Lady Bird Johnson Grove. For those who love hiking, nature, National Parks, and the majestic beauty of our world’s landscape, a trip through Lady Bird Johnson Grove is a must. This serene trail provides a glimpse into the ancient, untouched beauty of the redwood forest, making it an essential addition to any Redwood National Park itinerary.
