Chasing Giants: A Redwood Day Trip from the Inn at Baechtel Creek
Breathe the Forest: A Journey to the Avenue of the Giants
There is nothing in the world quite like a redwood forest. Towering hundreds of feet in the sky, these ancient trees have stood for thousands of years--living giants that hold whispers of time in their bark. People come from across the globe to journey to Northern California to walk among them, drawn by their grandeur, stillness, and the sense of wonder they awaken. The redwoods are more than trees--they are cathedrals of nature, breathing monuments to resilience and renewal. A day trip from Willits to the Avenue of the Giants is more than a scenic drive--it's a pilgrimage into one of Earth's oldest and most awe-inspiring landscapes.
A One Day Itinerary from the Inn at Baechtel Creek to the Redwoods
Total Drive Time: (Round Trip): Approx 4.5-5 hours
Best For: Nature lovers, families, photographers, and fans of roadside Americana.
Recommended Start Time: 8:00 AM for a relaxed pace with plenty of time for stops.
Stop 1: Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree-Leggett, CA
Start your journey heading north on Hwy 101 to Leggett, home of the famous Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree. This massive coast redwood stands 276 feet tall and features a 6-foot-wide tunnel carved through its base-just wide enough for most cars to pass through. The surrounding park includes quiet trails, a duck pond and a gift shop.
Hours: 8:30 AM to dusk (weather permitting).
Admission: $15 per vehicle
Address: 67402 Drive Thru Tree Road, Leggett, CA
Website: drivethrutree.com
Stop 2: Confusion Hill- Piercy, CA
Distance from Leggett- 5 miles
A short drive brings you to Confusion Hill, a classic roadside attraction filled with quirky fun. Explore the Gravity House, where optical illusions make it feel like gravity has gone sideways, and hop aboard the Mountain Train Ride, a scenic journey through the redwoods via a unique switchback system.
Address: 75001 US-101, Piercy, CA
Website: confusionhill.com
Stop 3: Avenue of the Giants-Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Distance from Confusion Hill: 3 miles
Continue north and take the exit for the Avenue of the Giants - a 31 mile scenic alternate route to Highway 101 that winds through one of the world's most impressive redwood groves.
Recommended Highlights:
- Humboldt Redwoods Visitor Center (Near Weott): Get maps, exhibits, and insights into these ancient trees.
- Founders Grove: A peaceful, short trail featuring some of the tallest trees in the park, including the Founders Tree and the fallen Dyerville Giant.
- Immortal Tree: This survivor of fire, logging, and flood is a testament to the redwoods' resilience.
- Shrine Drive-Thru Tree (Myers Flat): A second, optional drive-thru tree on your route.
Stop 4: The Peg House-Leggett, CA
Distance from Avenue of the Giants (on return trip)- 35 miles, 45 minutes
Head back and stop at The Peg House for a hearty meal and a fun outdoor atmosphere. With the motto, "Never Don't Stop," this roadside gem offers burgers, sandwiches, local goods, and live music under the redwoods.
Address: 69501 US-101, Leggett, CA
Website: thepeghouse.com
Return to Willits
Distance from The Peg House: 45 miles/1 hour
Welcome back to the Inn At Baechtel Creek for a dip in our pool and a restful night's sleep!
