Our family was amazed at the size of the Redwood trees. We thought we had big trees in Oregon, but this was another level! Some of our hikes truly felt like we had stepped onto the set of Jurassic Park or landed on Endor. We had a blast looking for Ewoks and Raptors, and it was so much fun to incorporate play into our learning. This was truly the best classroom.

A Living Science Lesson

Standing among the Redwoods is like stepping into a science book that suddenly came alive. These trees are the tallest in the world—many soar over 300 feet, with some nearing 2,000 years old! What amazed us most is how such giants can survive with surprisingly shallow roots. Instead of growing deep, their roots spread out wide and intertwine with the roots of other Redwoods, creating a supportive community underground. A perfect picture of how strength comes from connection.

The Redwoods also have a unique relationship with fog. Their needles are designed to catch the heavy coastal fog that rolls in, turning it into droplets that drip down to water the soil and sustain them during dry summers. It’s like they drink the air!

As a nurse, I couldn’t help but notice the health lessons here too. Forests like this actually give off compounds called phytoncides—plant-based particles that have been shown to lower stress hormones, boost the immune system, and even improve sleep. Breathing deeply in the Redwoods really does help your body and mind reset.

Our kids also got to see the bigger ecological picture—how the forest depends on balance. From fallen logs becoming nurseries for new life, to small fires clearing the way for seeds to grow, it’s a reminder that even challenges have a purpose in nature.

Conservation, History, and Living Lessons

We truly enjoyed learning about conservation efforts, the necessity of fires for forest health, and how to protect our environment so that people who come after us can enjoy this beautiful place as well. We stumbled upon a few amazing visitor centers filled with information. There was so much to explore that my kids were fully engaged and immersed!

This didn’t feel like school. This felt like living history, science, ecology, geology, and sociology all wrapped up in a fun package. We even had the chance to do a skywalk across suspension bridges in the trees—it was incredible and gave us memories we’ll hold forever.

Family-Friendly Tips

For those traveling with kids, here are a few things that made our experience smoother:

-We didn’t need a stroller, but the baby carrier was essential.

-Backpacks with snacks and water kept everyone fueled.

-Stop at the visitor centers—the Junior Ranger packets were both educational and fun.

-Don’t miss Crescent City near the lighthouse for tide pools, the Mystery of the Trees, and the Avenue of the Giants if you’re far enough south.

-The Redwoods span over 60 miles along the coastline of Northern California. We explored over two full days but could have easily spent a few more days as some of the hikes are far from each other.

-Print a map of where you plan to explore- cell service is very spotty out there. Hiking spots seemed well labeled along the drive.

-The walking trails outside of the Sequoia Park Zoo in Eureka were breathtaking and enchanted.

-Humbolt Redwoods State Park was an unexpected destination but I would absolutely recommend!

The best part? It felt safe and easy to explore as a family, which allowed us to really sink into the experience.

Why We Learn Everywhere

We took this trip to show how homeschool does not need to be confined to the table. The world is our classroom, and sometimes the most meaningful lessons come when we step outside and follow our curiosity.

This is the first of six stops in our 16-day trip! Stay tuned for the next: San Francisco!