PCH Leg 3: Klamath to San Francisco

With 200 miles of hiking trails, cozy small towns dotted around the outskirts, shaded campsites, and kayaking along the bubbling scenic rivers, Redwood National Park is more than just the groves of trees for which it’s named. Since the National Park is co-managed with three redwood state parks (Jedidiah Smith, Prairie Creek and Del Norte Coast) visiting any of them can give you a taste of the forest, but each provides their own distinctive experience. (KOA)

The Hyperion Tree is the tallest known tree in the world. It stands 379 feet tall, more than twice as tall as the Statue of Liberty (minus the base), and it's at an undisclosed location in Redwood National Park. Before Hyperion was discovered (which was shockingly not that long ago, back in 2006) Humboldt Redwood State Park's Stratosphere Giant had been known as the world's tallest: it's ten feet shorter than Hyperion. Either way, now you know why Redwood State and National Parks are such a commonly bucket-listen destination... redwood trees really are that big!

When you reach Trinidad, CA, head to Patrick's Point State Park. This secluded and misty park, with its hikes through forests and along the beach, is the perfect place to really feel like you're getting away from it all. Search for agate stones on the shore, appreciate the view from the lookout, and enjoy the solitude with some camping, if you're equipped. Next up, another natural landscape so amazing and otherworldly that “The Lost World: Jurassic Park” was filmed here. It also might be the best spot in the world to view a sunset... but you’ll have to be the final judge of that. With several miles of hiking trails, a Yurok village, a native plant garden, three group picnic areas, and a dramatic shoreline ranging from broad sandy beaches to cliffs that rise above the Pacific Ocean, Patrick’s Point offers a lot to see and do. Don’t leave until you’ve spent time exploring the tide pools—this is a beachcomber’s paradise! If you’re lucky, you’ll see a starfish or two along with a bevy of other sea plants and creatures. The park is dog-friendly; while your dog plays, keep an eye on the water to catch a glimpse of whales or sea lions frolicking off the coast. (KOA) (PHOTOS - Tatiana, loads)

If you’re a dog person, make sure to visit Clam Beach County Park, another canine-friendly spot along the coast. The south end connects to a small area of inlet water where you can watch ocean wildlife, such as sea lions at play. Plus, the beach is big and broad enough that it never really feels cramped. Pack a kite or a bocce set to take advantage of the space. This is a great spot to pull over to stretch your legs, even if it’s just for 15 minutes (though you’ll want to stay longer).

Stepping into the Victorian Inn Ferndale is like stepping back in time. The quirky Victorian building is fully decked out in opulent 1800's antiques, and no detail is spared, creating a cozy, romantic vibe. Plus, you get a full breakfast in the adorable restaurant downstairs. (PHOTOS - Tatiana)

If you’re driving the Pacific Coast Highway, take a detour to the Road to the Lost Coast. The 100-mile drive might add a day or two to your trip, but it’s absolutely worth it, especially if you’re game for the four-hour (or so) hike to the absolute end of the road. Plan accordingly though—it’s called the Lost Coast for a reason. You won’t see much, if any, development along the way, and the route can be tough in bad weather. But if you want to see what untouched California coastline has to offer, this is the way to do it. Take Mattole Road (aka “The Wildcat”) south toward Petrolia, heading for Cape Mendocino where the road takes a steep drop and ends near the ocean. (KOA)

Humboldt redwoods state park - In the early 1900s, loggers came to what is now Humboldt Redwoods State Park to cut down the giant ancient redwoods for grape stakes and shingles. Today, Humboldt Redwoods span an area almost twice the size of San Francisco. About one third of the park is old-growth redwood forest—the largest expanse of ancient redwoods left on the planet. The park has hiking for all levels of difficulty, and it’s also the best place to see redwoods by car in the North Coast region. Be sure to stop by the visitors’ center: It’s open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas, and provides lots of educational information about the park’s history and visitor outreach goals. (KOA)

Drive-thru trees are a classic roadside stop that are unique to California. Where else in the world will you be able to see trees that are big enough for a car to fit through, let alone ones that are tunneled out so that you literally can drive through? There are several drive-thru trees in Northern California, near the end of Highway 1, and the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree is neat because the tunnel appears natural, as opposed to being cut through the trunk. There are some cute little playhouses here that kids will love. Tip: If your car is too big to fit through the tree, don't stress... you can walk through it instead, and still grab that picture! (KOA) (PHOTOS - Tatiana, loads)