Simpson-Reed Trail - 0.8mi Easy Stroll

A Short Walk in the Northern Part of the Redwoods

This 0.8-mile walk through old-growth redwood forest is an easy win for those short on time or energy. The firm aggregate gravel path is ADA-accessible and fully shaded, with interpretive panels explaining the natural and cultural history of the forest. Expect zero elevation gain and a leisurely pace beneath ancient redwoods, nurse logs, ferns, and hemlocks. Limited parking is the constraint—secure it early.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 0.8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 0
Estimated Time: 30 to 60 minutes depending on pace and time spent reading interpretive panels

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 0.8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 0
Estimated Time: 30 to 60 minutes depending on pace and time spent reading interpretive panels
Trail Surface: Aggregate gravel, four to five feet wide, level
Trail Features: Ancient old-growth redwood groves
Interpretive wayside panels
Nurse logs
Forest understory (ferns, hemlocks, huckleberries)
Creek features
Trail Highlights: Ancient old-growth redwood groves in a cathedral-like shaded setting. Interpretive panels explain the natural and cultural history of the forest ecosystem, guiding you through redwoods, nurse logs, and forest understory.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Walker Road exit off HWY 199 (sharp northbound turn-off, easily missed). About 0.1 mile up Walker Road; trailhead on right.
Parking Lot Size: Limited; RVs and trailers not permitted
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Shuttle not available or required

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: None required
Fees: No entrance fee
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: None; trail remains open year-round

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: Filter at creek sources along the trail
Accessibility: Fully ADA-accessible. Aggregate gravel trail is four to five feet wide with level grade. Handicapped parking available. Service animals welcome.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Limited parking
Slippery when wet
Exposed tree roots
Black bears (rare)
Hazard Details: Limited parking is the primary challenge—arrive early or have a backup plan. Aggregate gravel becomes slippery after rain; wear shoes with good traction. Exposed roots scattered throughout; watch your footing. Black bears inhabit the forest but rarely encounter hikers; make noise and stay alert.
Best Season: Year-round; trail open all four seasons with no seasonal closures
Best Time To Visit: Year-round. Critical tactical move: arrive by 8 AM to secure parking before midday fills.
Tips Advice: Bring at least 1 liter of water—hydration matters on even short walks.
Wear shoes with good traction; aggregate gravel is slippery when wet.
Make noise as you walk—alerts bears and other wildlife.
Arrive by 8 AM to secure parking; lot fills quickly on weekends.
Read the interpretive panels—they explain forest ecology and add real value.

More details

Park Area: Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Northern Redwood Complex
Trail Markers: Well-worn trail clearly defined by frequent use. Interpretive wayside panels mark key ecological points.
Dogs Allowed: No pets permitted (service animals excepted)
Shade Level: Fully shaded beneath old-growth redwood canopy
Map Recommended: 0
Mud Season: October-May during rainy season; aggregate gravel surface drains reasonably but can soften with heavy rain
Fall Colors Peak: Not applicable (coniferous forest; evergreens retain foliage year-round)
Insider Tips: Walker Road turnoff is sharp and easily missed—watch for northbound exit off HWY 199.
Start by 8 AM for parking; lot fills by mid-morning weekends.
Read the interpretive panels—they're well-written and explain forest ecology.
The trail's shortness is its strength; take time to observe nurse logs, ferns, hemlocks, and ancient redwoods.
Creeks are small but consistent; filter if refilling water containers.
Family Friendly Notes: Ideal for families with young children and elderly visitors. Level terrain and firm gravel surface work with strollers and walkers. Interpretive panels engage children. Creek crossings are brief and shallow. Hand-holding recommended for very young children at water features.
Nearby Facilities: Vault toilet at trailhead. Food and supplies available in Hiouchi and Crescent City via HWY 199
Review Summary: Easy 0.8-mile walk that works for families, seniors, and anyone short on time. Old-growth forest and interpretive panels make it educational without strenuous effort. Primary challenge is securing parking—arrive early. Ideal for a break on a long Highway 199 drive or as an accessible introduction to redwood forest ecology.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail suitable for young children?

Yes. Level terrain, ADA gravel surface, short distance (0.8 miles), and 30-60 minute timeframe work well for strollers and young walkers. Creek crossings are shallow; supervise closely.

What do I need to bring?

Water (1-2 liters), comfortable walking shoes with good traction, and a light layer—temperature fluctuates in the forest. Insect repellent if visiting June-September.

Are bears a concern?

Unlikely. Black bears inhabit the forest but avoid trails. Make noise, stay alert. If you spot one, back away calmly and contact park rangers.

Is the parking really that limited?

Yes. Arrive by 8 AM to secure a spot. No overflow lot exists. If full, try nearby trails like Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail or Fern Canyon Loop Trail.

Do I need a permit or pay a fee?

No. Trail is free and open year-round. No permits required.