Some attractions feel almost magical from the first glimpse, inviting you into a world that seems lifted from imagination. Towering trees, fresh coastal air, and winding paths create a setting that feels peaceful yet full of discovery.
In Northern California, Trees of Mystery brings this sense of wonder to life with sky gondola rides, towering redwood groves, and playful trails that feel both immersive and unforgettable. This listicle explores the must see experiences that turn a simple forest walk into a storybook adventure.
1. Kingdom of Trees Trail
There are so many great hikes in Redwood National Park but you also need to check out the trails in Trees of Mystery.
The Kingdom of Trees Trail is a >1-mile trail that walks you through 10+ trees grown in unique formations and species including Coast Redwood, Douglas Fir, and Sitka Spruce. Our favorite was the Elephant Tree:
2. Redwood Canopy Trail
We definitely recommend this trail where you climb up to mid-canopy level and walk across from one tree to another via aerial suspension bridges. There are 9 bridges up to 100 feet high and up to 130 feet long.
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3. Trail of Tall Tales
This trail takes you through 29 carved-out sculptures done by the artist, Kenyon Kaiser who used only logger’s tools, a chainsaw, and a jackknife. The carvings depict the life and legend of Paul Bunyan.
4. SkyTrail Gondola
Take a ride up through the redwood forest canopy to an observation deck through the SkyTrail Gondola.
At the observation deck, you’ll see forests and forests of redwood trees. It’s even better with some fog amidst the trees. It isn’t too long- it takes 8-10 minutes one way.
5. Wilderness Trail
After you’ve ridden the SkyTrail Gondola, you’ve got 2 ways to head back down. You can take the same gondola or you can take the Wilderness Trail.
This trail isn’t for everyone; only if you’re wearing durable hiking shoes and prepared for a challenging hike down. If you’re up for it, you’ll see an untouched forest of redwood trees that many tourists don’t access.
6. Brotherhood Tree
This may be the widest tree we’ve ever seen! It is 60 feet in circumference and 19 feet in diameter. It also stands tall at 297 feet and it is over 2000 years old. It’s a Coast Redwood tree with proof that withstood a fire utmost 500 years ago.
7. Cathedral Tree
A Cathedral Tree is a group of redwood trees with their trunks attached together due to some trees reproducing from other trees and then growing out. Thus, the name “Cathedral Tree”!
8. Look up at the Towering Inferno tree
While hiking other trails, you might see chimney trees but have you ever wanted to look through a hollow tree? Check out the Towering Inferno, a tree that was burnt by lightning and is now hollow but still standing.
9. The End of the Trail Collection
There’s also a museum near the entrance that’s known to be one of the largest private Native American museums globally. It’s free to visit and you can spend up to an hour learning about the history through the museum’s artifacts.
10. Taste some homemade fudge
If you’re looking for a quick snack, you can grab some homemade fudge or ice cream at the gift shop. We got some mango and chocolate fudge and they were deliciously rich!
11. Buy your very own redwood seedling
Tempted to grow your very own redwood tree after visiting the park? You can buy one at the park’s online store.
12. Pose with the Carved Dog
This impressive wooden carving is a must-see at Trees of Mystery. You’ll spot at at the end of the Trail of Tall Tales. It’s carved to look like a dog’s head looking up. And if you brought your dog, take a photo with together!
13. Walk under the Upside Down Tree
Walk right under an upside-down Tree! This tree’s roots are pointing to the sky, creating an optical illusion that will have you questioning how it even grew this way. Definitely a fun stop for both adults and kids to snap some photos.
14. Check out the Fallen Giant
One of the ancient wonders at Trees of Mystery, the Fallen Giant is a massive redwood that sprouted over 3,000 years ago. Walking around this enormous stump will give you a true sense of the scale and history of the towering redwoods in this forest.
15. Crawl under the Octopus Tree
The Octopus Tree has its roots twisting in all directions, and the Nature’s Underpass is a hollowed section perfect for crawling through. This offers a way to interact with these ancient redwoods.
16. Spot the 3-in-1 Tree
The 3-in-1 Tree is a fascinating sight where three massive trunks grow from the same base. It’s a stunning natural formation that’s hard to believe until you see it in person, showcasing the diversity and resilience of the redwood forest.
17. Search for the Logging Chainsaw Display
A nod to the region’s logging history, this giant chainsaw embedded in a redwood stump is a cool display that highlights the immense effort it took to cut down these giants. It’s a great way to appreciate the tools used in logging while surrounded by the forest’s towering trees.
18. Stay near Trees Of Mystery
You can stay right next to the park at Motel Trees. The rooms are forest-themed and you can wake up looking at the huge statue of Paul Bunyan and the Blue Ox. But we recommend staying at The Historic Requa Inn, just 7 minutes away. Especially if you plan to explore the redwoods for a few more days, We loved our stay there; the decor, the hospitality, and the comfort – all 5 stars!
19. Eat in a forest-themed cafe
There’s also a restaurant, Forest Cafe, opposite the park. After the park, we grabbed lunch there. You’ll get American food there. While the food wasn’t remarkable, we enjoyed the forest decor on the ceiling and in the restaurant.
Read More From Bae Area and Beyond
17 Best Hikes in Redwood National Park
29 Best Viewpoints In Yosemite From A Local
Ultimate 4-Day Redwood National Park Itinerary & Guide
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