Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail is one of the most popular trails in all of Redwood National and State Parks. Fog clings to the grove during the early morning, casting sun rays down through the canopy above the trail. Lady Bird Johnson Trail allows hikers to experience the true difference between new and old growth forest all in one short hike, as secondary growth forest of adolescent redwoods and mixed conifers eventually gives way to true old growth forest. If you have the opportunity to walk with a ranger guide and learn the history of the fight for conservation and preservation that is ongoing in Redwood National Park, take it.
What is there to see at Lady Bird Johnson Grove?
Lady Bird Johnson Grove is actually two distinct forests. one side is a new growth forest and the other old growth forest. These Redwood trees are amazingly tall and whether you are young or old you will be in awe of this forest! Massive trees tower over the pathway as it winds through one of the most beautiful sections of the park. I would rank this trail a must-see stop in Redwood National Park, along with Trillium Falls Trial and the Fern Canyon Trail.
Is there a guided tour available?
YES! Find out here what times they do the guided tour. On this tour you will learn about Faery circles, burls, Redwood root structure, and how that piece of the forest came to be. It is extremely interesting and educational.
When should I go?
You want to go earlier than later! We got there around 9 am and there already were not very many spots available. I would recommend getting there by 8 am to ensure that you get a parking spot, although we did see some cars parking on the side of the road near the parking lot entrance.
How difficult is Lady Bird Johnson trail?
Trail difficulty is easy. According to AllTrails, the trail is 1.3 miles long, and while it is very accessible, the pedestrian bridge is too sloped for this to be a handicap-accessible trail. People of all ages and fitness levels hike this trail from start to finish.
Where can I park?
There is a paved parking lot at the trailhead. The parking lot is on the smaller side with only 20-25 parking spots available. We saw small RV’s that fit in one parking space in the lot. Larger RVs and vehicles towing trailers will have a hard time parking in the lot and there is very little room to turn around. The drive up to Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail is not recommended for large RV’s and trailers, and there are very few spots to turn around any oversized vehicle.
Are there bathrooms available?
Cleanliness was fine, what you would typically expect from a pit toilet. The smell, however, was TERRIBLE. Seriously, you could smell this thing from the parking lot. We would not recommend counting on using it if you gag easily from strong (horrible) smells.
What should I wear?
Due to the coastal influence, it can be very misty and a lot cooler under the trees. I would recommend bringing a light jacket. Since the trail is easy regular tennis shoes will be fine.
