Lieffer Loop Trail

A brown sign is next to a trail lined with red needles. A large redwood tree is next to the trail.

A 1.5-mile loop through old-growth redwoods with 150 feet of elevation gain, located far enough from Highway 199 that vehicle traffic is completely inaudible. The trail features a 0.75-mile wheelchair-accessible section perfect for families; the remaining loop crosses rooty forest floor with ferns, nurse logs, and berry bushes. Benches dot the route for rest and observation. This is an easy hike that opens ancient redwoods to hikers of all abilities.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 1.5
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 150

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 1.5
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 150
Estimated Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours for most hikers; longer if you linger at benches or move slowly on rooty sections.
Trail Surface: Forest floor—packed dirt, roots, rocks. Uneven and rooty throughout, but not technical.
Trail Features: Ancient coast redwoods
Ferns and forest understory
Nurse logs
Berry bushes
Rest benches along trail
Quiet forest canopy
Redwoods with fire scars and hollows from historical fires
Trail Highlights: Walk through old-growth redwoods—some with visible fire scars and hollows—while hearing only the forest itself. The 0.75-mile wheelchair-accessible section opens the experience to wheelchairs, strollers, and anyone avoiding rough terrain. Benches placed at scenic points reward you for moving slowly.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Walker Road, west of Hiouchi, CA. Access via Highway 199 (sharp turn north onto Walker Road). First trailhead approximately 0.5 miles from Highway 199; second trailhead approximately 0.75 miles farther. Two separate parking areas, one at each end of the 0.75-mile accessible section.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle required. Two trailheads allow loop completion without backtracking. Mark your vehicle location clearly before starting—the two entrances are separate.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: None required.
Fees: No entrance fee. America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers national parks if you purchase; Redwood NPS access is free.
Trail Status: Open year-round.
Seasonal Closures: None. Roads and trails remain open year-round. Some visitor centers and facilities have reduced hours October–May, but trail access is unrestricted.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: None. Carry a minimum 2L water per hiker. No streams or spigots on the trail.
Accessibility: 0.75-mile wheelchair-accessible paved section between the two trailheads. Remainder of loop is rooty, uneven forest floor requiring confident walking. Trekking poles recommended for the rooty sections; wheelchairs and strollers can access the flat section only.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Limited/no cell service
Remote location
Rooty, uneven trail surface—ankle risk
Wildlife presence (elk, deer, other animals)
Hazard Details: Cell service is nonexistent—plan as if you're offline. The forest floor is rooty and steep in places; trekking poles reduce ankle strain and foot fatigue. Wildlife exists in the park; elk and other animals are present. Keep 25 yards from any animal you encounter. Do not leave the trail—redwood forests grow by the inch and die by your foot.
Cell Service: None. Plan as completely offline. Have a check-in arrangement with someone who expects your return time.
Crowd Level: Moderate. The two-trailhead system and relative remoteness spread visitors across the loop. Summer weekends see family traffic; weekday mornings are quiet.
Peak Crowd Times: Summer weekends (June–August) and holiday weeks (Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving). Spring and fall weekdays offer solitude.
Best Season: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–October). Summer brings coastal fog; winter rarely brings snow but trails can be muddy after rain.
Best Time To Visit: March through October for stable weather. Start by 8am to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon coastal fog. Cell coverage is nonexistent—check in with someone before heading out. Weekday mornings are dramatically quieter than weekends.
Tips Advice: Carry at least 2L water per person—there are no water sources on the trail.
Cell service is nonexistent; have a contact know your expected return time before you leave.
Tighten your boots; the forest floor is rooty, uneven, and demands ankle stability.
Stay on trail to protect the ancient redwoods' ecosystem and your own footing.
Note which trailhead you parked at—the two entrances are 0.25 miles apart on Walker Road.
Make noise periodically (talk, clap) to avoid startling wildlife; keep 25 yards from animals.

More details

Park Area: Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park (North)
Trail Markers: Generally well-marked path but minimal signage. The NPS recommends carrying a map—online maps and GPS are unreliable in this area. Download an offline map or carry a printed trail guide.
Dogs Allowed: No. Pets are not permitted on any park trails in Redwood National and State Parks.
Shade Level: High. Almost entirely forested under old-growth redwood canopy—excellent sun protection even on hot days. Wear layers; the forest stays cool and damp year-round.
Emergency Contacts: Pre-plan your route with a trusted contact before leaving. Call 911 if brief cell coverage appears. Know landmarks to describe your location to responders (e.g., 'Walker Road trailhead, north entrance').
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Rare. Northern California coast rarely receives snow. Expect mud and wet conditions October–May instead.
Mud Season: October through May. Forest floor stays wet from coastal rain and morning fog. Boots with good traction are essential.
Fall Colors Peak: Redwoods maintain their color year-round; no seasonal foliage change. The forest maintains its appearance in all seasons, but autumn light is particularly clear.
Bug Season: Mosquitoes may be present June–August in damp low-lying areas near the trail. Bring insect repellent if hiking mid-summer.
Insider Tips: The 0.75-mile accessible section is the flattest and quietest—warm up there before tackling the rooty loop.
Benches are positioned at the best viewpoints; don't rush past them. Sit, breathe, absorb the scale of these 1,000+ year old trees.
The two trailheads can be confusing—mark your parking location clearly on your phone or write it on your hand.
Hike early to avoid afternoon fog rolling in from the coast.
Recent Updates: No recent closures or trail work reported. Trail remains open and accessible as described.
Family Friendly Notes: Excellent for families with children 5 and older. The 0.75-mile accessible section is flat and safe for little ones and strollers. Rooty sections demand supervision; hold hands on steeper portions. Benches provide frequent rest stops. No water, so pack snacks and hydration.
Nearby Facilities: Supplies and services in nearby Hiouchi on Highway 199. Jedediah Smith Campground is close by if you're planning an overnight visit.
Review Summary: Hikers praise this trail for delivering old-growth redwood immersion without technical challenge or distance commitment. The wheelchair-accessible section opens ancient forest to everyone. Cell coverage being nonexistent is the price of peace—and hikers accept that trade-off gladly.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this trail alone with no hiking experience?

Yes, absolutely. It's 1.5 miles on a clear path. The main risk is being unreachable by phone—tell someone where you're going and when you'll return. Stay on trail and return by your promised time.

Is this safe to hike solo?

Yes, for daytime hiking. Cell coverage is gone, so pre-arrange a check-in with a contact who expects you. Stay on trail, make noise to avoid startling wildlife, and turn back if conditions feel unsafe.

What if I get injured and can't reach help?

This is why you pre-plan with a contact. Have an exit strategy—turn back if you feel unwell or hurt. Know your limits; this trail is beginner-friendly but remote.

Do I need special gear beyond normal hiking boots and water?

Trekking poles reduce ankle strain on rooty sections. A printed map or offline download is essential—GPS unreliable here. Sun protection and rain jacket (weather changes fast on the coast).

Can I use a wheelchair, stroller, or mobility device?

Yes. The 0.75-mile section between the two trailheads is paved and wheelchair-accessible. The remaining 0.75-mile loop requires confident walking on uneven forest floor.

Is this a good hike for kids and families?

Excellent for kids 5+. The accessible section is flat and safe for little ones. Rooty sections demand supervision but aren't technical. Benches provide rest stops. No water on trail, so pack snacks and hydration.