Redwood National Parks Spotlight: Hiouchi Trail at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park in Del Norte County, California

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is a rustic, mossy gem with 10,000 acres for you to explore. Fish the salmon-filled emerald waters of the wild and scenic Smith River which is the cleanest river in the United States outside of Alaska. Take a cruise under tangled redwood canopies or stroll along a forest path with fern-covered understory. One such blissful hiking path is the low-traffic Hiouchi Trail.

Hike Name: Hiouchi Trail

Hiking Distance: 4.4 mile out and back

Wheelchair Accessible: No

Dog-friendly: No

Elevation Change: 420 feet

Distance from Crescent City: 28 minutes, 14 miles

Get Directions

What You’ll See:

Wander along the sapphire rush of the Smith River. Wind around two ravines for an elevated view of sprawling old-growth forest. Descend into the groves for the final act of this primordial show. The trail connects up with Stout Grove and you can start there if you wish. We recommend starting at the northern Hiouchi trailhead to make the redwood grove your final destination before heading back.

Why We Love this Hike: 

The Hiouchi Trail is a path a little less traveled. However, you still get the ohs-and-ahs of ancient redwood groves. Just below the towering canopy of redwoods, there are sturdy maples that turn golden yellow in the fall. The calming flow of the Smith River is a wonderful recharge any time of year. The trail lies within the Tolowa People’s ancestral territory, which includes the historic Tolowa Villages known as Chvn-su’lh-dvn and Xaa-yuu-chit.

Fuel Up 

Pair the variety on the Hiouchi Trail with the delicious variety at the Hiouchi Cafe. Serving up breakfast and lunch all day, you’ll find enormous helpings and an extensive menu. Think gigantic pancakes with fresh berries or burgers that are generous and juicy. Try a mimosa flight with one of their specialty Benedicts or their famous homemade biscuits and gravy. 

Wander with Us to Earn Your Patch

Share your photo with us to earn your Del Norte County Patch (it’s a sticker, too!) #VisitDelNorte @VisitDelNorteCounty. Learn more here.