Have you ever wondered what it’s like to run among ancient giants? These trees are older than most civilizations. This isn’t just a forest. It’s a mini wonder of the world that reminds you: when you think you’ve seen it all…you’re just getting started.
Cathedrals of Time: Journey Through California’s Mythic Avenue of the Giants
For years, the redwoods were just legends in my mind and dreams of visiting I’d postponed for “someday.” I had glimpsed their towering silhouettes in nature documentaries and chase scenes, their ancient limbs etched into the collective imagination through books, magazines, and pixelated YouTube adventures. But nothing—nothing—could match the awe of stepping into their presence. Touching down in Northern California felt like landing on sacred ground. These aren’t just trees; they’re living relics, some older than the Roman Empire, guardians of deep time. As someone who has had the privilege to run trails on every continent, I can honestly say few places stir the soul like the Avenue of the Giants.
Whispers in the Woods: The Sacred Start Among Redwood Roots (Miles 1-3)
The start line wasn’t just a marker—it was a portal that ran straight into a living fairytale. Waiting faithfully on the sidelines was my four-legged co-pilot, Valentina —tail wagging, ears perked, and proudly donning the newest R4P doggie gear.
You may be thinking, “Is Jason a two-dog household now?” Not yet! Valentina is my friend Brad’s short-haired pointer pup, and she made the big trek cross-country just to be part of the fun — and she nailed her role as doggie dignitary.
She wasn’t just there for moral support; she was a walking (well, paw-sprinting energy) billboard, stealing hearts and spreading smiles among runners, spectators, and trail-loving hikers alike.
As I rounded the corner, said a quick hello to Valentina and crossed a small bridge, the forest opened like a curtain revealing its stars. The majestic redwoods flanked the road like ancient sentinels, their trunks wide as city buses, their tops lost in morning mist. This was no ordinary start line—it was a cathedral of nature, a launch pad into one of the most magical runs on Earth.
As I ran in near silence through the heaven reaching redwoods during those first few miles—and honestly, for most of the race—I focused on being fully present. Every footfall felt intentional, every breath pulled in the stillness of the forest. But it’s worth pausing to acknowledge a small, unassuming stretch of road around Mile 3 that held its own story. A recent mudslide had made this section impassable to vehicles, leaving the road scarred and closed. Yet, thanks to the incredible work of the race team, it was cleared and made safe for runners.
Where Are the Mile Markers…and Is Neck Cramp a Redwood Thing? (Miles 4-6.5)
I must’ve spent the first few miles with my head tilted skyward, completely hypnotized by the redwoods hovering above me—because the scenery was nothing short of breathtaking. But somewhere between wonder and stride, a thought crept in: Where are the mile markers?
Usually, they stand proudly at eye level, cheering you on in silent numbers. But I hadn’t spotted a single one—no signs tucked near a tree, none beside the water stations. And as someone who runs free of GPS watches or tracking apps, I rely on those markers like little bursts of motivation carved into the race. So I just kept going, unsure of how far I’d come…until Mile 4.
And there she was—not raised on a mini pedastool, not laminated—but spray painted on the ground, humble and bold.
One of the hardest things to capture during this race—whether by photo, words, or even memory—is the sheer scale of these redwoods. They don’t just stand tall; they exist on a different dimension. Somewhere between miles 5 and 6, the course passed a massive fallen redwood, lying parallel to the road like nature had gently laid it down for us to study.
Even in defeat, the giant rested like a toppled column. The trunk, stretched flat on the forest floor, still stood nearly six feet tall at its base—taller than many runners jogging beside it. And the wildest part? Locals call it a baby tree.
Neck cramp? Oh, it’s real—and I earned mine the hard way. I’ve never had to stretch mid-race just to look forward, but I couldn’t stop gazing up. The Avenue is pure road—mostly flat, with a few gentle rises and dips.—but it’s sky-high redwoods overhead, not the terrain underfoot, that truly pull you forward.
Trading Speed for Scale: Stopped for the Shot, Stayed for the Awe (Miles 6.5 – 13.1)
Some races loop you through surprise after surprise—twisting trails, shifting landscapes, and unexpected turns. And then… there are out-and-backs. Predictable? Usually. Repetitive? Often. But not this time. I’m usually not the biggest fan of seeing the same scenery twice (to put it mildly), but there are always exceptions to the rule.
Returning down the same path, I knew I had to do more than just run it. I had to document it. I paused to capture what I could, to hold onto and soak in the scale and soul of it all. Words may fall short, so here’s the return, told the only way I know how: in images.
Here’s to the Media Spot That Steals the Show
Big shoutout to Arianna Martinez at KRCR News Channel 7! She took the time to tell our Run4Papa story with so much care and passion. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to share our journey with her and her amazing audience!
Local Gems You’ll Want to Add to Your List
The Perfect Basecamp, 100 Years Strong
Where history lingers in the woodwork and modern luxuries meet old-world charm—just ask Churchill and Reagan, who once called this place home away from home. Follow in the footsteps of legends at the Eureka Inn, where grand design and warm hospitality have been a tradition since 1922.
Where the Road Gets Wild and the Canyon Gets Ferny
Undoubtedly, Fern Canyon at Prairie Creek Redwoods is a showstopper. Think lush ferns hugging a bubbling creek, all framed by smooth river rocks. But heads up—the road there isn’t your average Sunday drive. Windy, bumpy, potholes galore, and even a splash or two. It’s just a few miles, but give yourself 30–40 minutes to conquer the wild ride. Totally worth it for the magic waiting at the end!
Three Redwood Wonders: Stout Memorial Grove, Grove of the Titans, and Karl Knapp Trail
These three trails offer a perfect day’s journey through the heart of the redwood national and state parks without ever feeling rushed. At Stout Memorial Grove, you’re greeted by commanding giant trees mixed with a serene spot to pause and soak in nature’s grandeur.
The Grove of the Titans, famed for its colossal trees and mystical atmosphere, invites awe and quiet reflection among some of the world’s largest living beings. These trees are thousands of feet off the ground and you continue to walk along the trail getting higher and higher with every turn.
Finally, the Karl Knapp Trail offers a more intimate hike through lush undergrowth and peaceful clearings, a chance to connect deeply with the forest’s quieter rhythms. If you are lucky, you might even run into (on purpose or by accident) The Big Tree.
Together, they create a rich tapestry of redwood experiences—each unique, each unforgettable, and all comfortably explored within a single, fulfilling day.
Two Trees, One Car Exploring California’s Iconic Drive-Through Trees
There are two classic drive-through tree experiences in the Redwoods: the Shrine Tree along the Avenue of the Giants, and the iconic Chandelier Tree farther south. The Shrine Tree? Definitely a tourist trap vibe, but still fun for that first “wow, I actually drove through a tree” moment.
That said, if you want the real deal, the Chandelier Tree is where the magic lives. Grand, dramatic and well-maintained—it’s absolutely worth the extra miles.
If you ever need an excuse to run this race… let my custom tee remind you: every mile and journey has a unique story that is begging to be created.
And hey, if running isn’t your thing—no worries at all. Grab your furry friend, take the scenic route, and create your very own memories and adventures under the Redwood forest canopies.
What an incredible adventure for you both in the Mighty Redwoods!!
The sheer magnitude of these giants is next to none…
Run4papa does it again….