Highly likely. They graze in this area daily. Keep 25 yards back, make noise, and never position yourself between a cow and calf.

Yes. NPS explicitly recommends carrying a physical map—don't rely on online maps or cell service.

Davison Trail: South Access - 2.5mi Easy Hike

Q: Can I bike this trail?

Yes—it's part of the Hike and Bike hub. The old logging road surface works for hybrid and mountain bikes. Road bikes will struggle with the uneven terrain.

Q: Is there water on the trail?

No water sources. Carry 2L minimum. Filter water at creeks near Elk Meadow or Elk Prairie if needed.

Q: How does the trail stay open during restoration?

Restoration work is ongoing but allows public access on the main trail. Temporary closures may occur during active work. Check NPS website for current conditions.

Distance

2.5 mi

Elevation Gain

50 ft

Est. Time

1.5-3 hours depending on wildlife viewing and photo stops

Route Type

Out and back

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Year-round. October-May: lighter crowds but possible temporary closures during Redwoods Rising forest restoration. Summer: busy and hot on exposed road sections.

Overview

About This Trail

This 2.5-mile level hike on an old logging road takes you through the recovering redwood forest most hikers never see. You'll walk past giant redwood stumps from 1960s logging, old mill buildings, and dense second-growth Douglas-fir forest that represents 70% of the park. The final few hundred feet reveal old-growth redwoods near Elk Prairie Campground. Elk viewing is frequent—make noise and maintain 25-yard distance.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Walk through the recovery of a logged forest. The final section reveals old-growth redwoods near Elk Prairie. Elk encounters are frequent and educational.

Insider Tips

• Elk are most active at dawn and dusk—time your hike accordingly for best viewing • The contrast between second-growth (dense, crowded trees) and old-growth (massive trunks, open floor) is stark • Don't miss the old logging mill buildings—they tell the 20th-century logging story • Final few hundred feet are worth the full hike; don't turn back early

Best Season to Hike

Year-round. October-May: lighter crowds but possible temporary closures during Redwoods Rising forest restoration. Summer: busy and hot on exposed road sections.

Hiking Tips

Make noise to alert elk; maintain 25-yard minimum distance
Carry 2L water minimum—sun exposure on logging road is relentless
Sturdy boots essential for uneven logging road surface
Let someone know your route and check-in plan; limited cell coverage
Stay on trail—protect recovering forest from off-trail damage

Family Info

Excellent for families—2.5 miles and minimal elevation make it manageable for children. Concerns: Elk are common (keep children close and maintain 25-yard distance). Limited water sources (carry plenty). Limited cell service (inform rangers of your route).

What Hikers Say

Hikers appreciate this trail for its easy access and historical significance. The 2.5-mile distance is manageable for most fitness levels. Wildlife viewing and logging artifacts make it educational. Main complaints: sun exposure on the road and limited water. Elk encounters are the highlight for most.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 2.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 50 ft

Duration: 1.5-3 hours depending on wildlife viewing and photo stops

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out and back

Surface: Packed dirt old logging road with some overgrown sections and embedded tree stumps

Getting There

Trailhead: Elk Meadow Day Use Area parking lot, just north of the main parking area

Parking: Large—ample parking available at Elk Meadow Day Use Area

Fills Up: Not typically full—Elk Meadow has ample parking

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required

Fees: No entrance fee (America the Beautiful annual pass accepted)

Shuttle Available

No shuttle required. Direct access from Elk Meadow Day Use Area parking.

Trail Rules

Dogs: No—pets are not permitted on park trails

Biking: Yes—this is a designated 'Hike and Bike' trail. Old logging road surface accommodates hybrid and mountain bikes.

Trail Markers: Well-marked at key junctions with directional signs (Elk Prairie Campground sign). Main trail is obvious; don't go off-trail.

Map/GPS recommended

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None on trail. Carry 2L water minimum. No reliable refill points on the route.

Shade: Mostly open/partial. The logging road section is fully exposed (relentless sun). Shade increases in final old-growth redwood section near Elk Prairie.

Cell Service: Very limited or unavailable. Do not rely on cell service in emergency. Carry a map and pre-arrange check-in plan with a friend.

Hazards:

Elk are frequently encountered—make noise and maintain 25-yard distance minimum. The open logging road exposes you to relentless sun and heat; bring 2L water minimum. Cell coverage is minimal to none; carry a map and inform someone of your itinerary. Uneven terrain requires sturdy boots. Watch for fallen branches.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

The old logging road is fairly level but uneven. Muddy in wet season. Final old-growth section near Elk Prairie is accessible but rooty in spots. Sturdy boots required.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Elk Meadow Day Use Area has parking and basic facilities. Elk Prairie Campground to the north. Nearest visitor centers and services in nearby communities.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this trail suitable for beginners?

Yes. The 2.5-mile distance and minimal elevation gain make it ideal for building fitness. Main challenge: sun exposure—bring water and a hat.

Will I see elk?

Can I bike this trail?

Is there water on the trail?

How does the trail stay open during restoration?

Do I need a map?

🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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