Redwood Highway 101 Rhododendron Bloom

The featured photo was captured along the west side of Redwood Highway 101 just before the Damnation Creek Trailhead pullout. Head south on Highway 101. The Damnation Creek Trailhead is about 15 minutes from Crescent City. The trail is a little tricky to find since it starts from an unmarked dirt pullout on the west side of Highway 101. The pullout is at mile marker 16.

The Rhododendron bloom occurs in late May and early June, so try to visit then!

The fog is most prevalent in the early mornings from sunrise to 10:00am. The moisture from the fog will create a soft mood with the green trees and colorful rhododendrons. The park is less frequented by visitors in the early morning as well.

Be careful when pulling over as there is a narrow shoulder and cars are driving by fast.

Some of the best groves of rhododendrons can be captured right off Highway 101 — it’s not necessary to go on the trails!

If there is any wind, make sure to use a fast shutter speed to ensure leaves and flowers are sharp and in focus.

Visit other sections of Redwood National and State Parks: Prairie Creek Redwood State Park, Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park.