The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Bull Creek State Wilderness
4.8
(41)
253
hikers
19
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Bull Creek State Wilderness are set within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, characterized by the world's largest remaining contiguous old-growth coastal redwood forest. The terrain features towering ancient redwoods, some over 35 stories high, and a lush understory of ferns and native plants. Bull Creek flows through the wilderness, providing a significant natural feature and contributing to the rich forest ecosystem. The area offers a range of hiking opportunities from easy, level walks to more moderateโฆ
Last updated: May 14, 2026
5.0
(2)
11
hikers
4.87km
01:16
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
17.3km
05:01
460m
460m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
1
hikers
10.0km
02:54
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
1
hikers
16.1km
06:10
590m
590m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(8)
48
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Johnson Camp Trail will lead you to Johnson Trail Camp, while the names may be confusing the permit process isn't. During the summer season stop by any of the staffed campgrounds within the state park and get yourself a back country permit if you would like to stay at the camp. Along the way you'll pass through plenty of beautiful forests and if you keep quiet and have your head on a swivel there's no telling what sort of wildlife you might spot.
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Big Trees is probably the most popular place within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and with good reason, as it is home to "Giant Tree" once recognized as the tallest of the Coastal Redwoods. From here you can take a number of trails to fit you schedule, ability, and fitness level. Anything from a quick 5 minute top to 20+ mile overnight trips can be had from here.
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Grasshopper Road provides a peaceful and serene walk through the woods. If an escape into nature is what you're after then you will find it here.
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The Homestead Trail loosely follows Bull Creek and Mattole Road. Along the way it passes through stands of redwoods and across open meadows. It is quite flat and easy, especially when compared to other trails in the area that climb up to the ridgeline.
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Set on the edge of second growth redwood forest and an open meadows, Albee Creek Campground is a popular spot for exploring the area. It opens for the season in May and is often booked out, so be sure to make your reservations early. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30998
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This trail climbs out from the Albee and Bull Creek confluence up to Peavine Ridge Road. It's a multi-use trail so you'll likely encounter mountain bikers and horse riders.
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This bridge will be dismantled in the fall and not rebuilt until spring. Once dismantled, you can only cross the river when the water level is low. The trail north of Bull Creek was closed in September 2023. The reason for this and an indication of when it will reopen were not available. Otherwise it would have been more attractive to do a circular route and return on the north side of the river.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Bull Creek State Wilderness?
Bull Creek State Wilderness offers a wonderful selection of family-friendly trails. Our guide features 20 routes, with 12 of them specifically rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children.
What kind of natural attractions can families expect to see on these trails?
Families will be immersed in the awe-inspiring beauty of old-growth redwood forests, home to some of the tallest trees in the world. Many trails wind alongside Bull Creek, offering serene sounds and opportunities to observe the lush understory of ferns and redwood sorrel. Keep an eye out for impressive fallen giants, which provide a unique perspective on the scale of these ancient trees.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families in Bull Creek State Wilderness?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. A great option is the Homestead and Bull Creek Trail North Loop, which offers a manageable distance for families to enjoy the towering redwoods.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in Bull Creek State Wilderness?
The Bull Creek State Wilderness is accessible year-round. However, late spring through early fall generally offers the most pleasant weather for family hikes. During summer, footbridges are often installed, which can enhance accessibility and connect various parts of the trail system, providing more comprehensive loop options.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly hikes for families with young children?
Absolutely! Many of the trails are designed to be easy and accessible. The Homestead and Bull Creek Trail North Loop is an excellent choice, offering a relatively flat and shorter path through the magnificent forest, ideal for beginners and younger children.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the humbling experience of walking among the ancient redwoods, the peaceful atmosphere of Bull Creek, and the well-maintained paths that make it enjoyable for all ages.
Are permits required for hiking with children in Bull Creek State Wilderness?
Generally, permits are not required for day hiking on most trails within Bull Creek State Wilderness. However, for specific information regarding Humboldt Redwoods State Park regulations, it's always a good idea to check the official California State Parks website: parks.ca.gov.
What should families wear for hiking in Bull Creek State Wilderness, especially in summer?
Even in summer, the redwood forest can be cooler and shadier than open areas. Layers are always a good idea. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential, and bringing water and snacks is recommended. Sun protection is wise for any exposed areas, though much of the hiking is under the canopy.
Are there any trails that offer particularly good viewpoints or photo opportunities?
The entire Rockefeller Forest, which many trails traverse, offers incredible photo opportunities with its immense trees and open understory. The sheer scale of the redwoods and the lush forest floor provide a 'fairy-tale forest' ambiance that is truly unique and memorable for family photos.
What is the typical length and duration of an easy family hike in this area?
Easy family hikes in Bull Creek State Wilderness vary, but many are designed to be manageable. For example, the Homestead and Bull Creek Trail North Loop is just under 5 km (3 miles) and can be completed in about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect length for families.
Where can we find parking for family-friendly trails?
Parking is generally available at trailheads and designated visitor areas within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, which encompasses Bull Creek State Wilderness. Specific parking details for each route can often be found on the individual tour pages on komoot.
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