Felton News: Henry Cowell’s Redwood Grove Loop — Accessible Forest Walk and Important Dog Restrictions

FELTON, California — Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offers a remarkable old-growth forest experience within Felton, including a loop suitable for many visitors who cannot or do not want to tackle the area’s steep mountain routes. The park’s visitor information makes clear, however, that accessibility, bicycles and dogs are governed by specific trail rules.

A manageable old-growth redwood walk

California State Parks’ hiking guide describes the Redwood Grove Loop Trail as an approximately 0.8-mile walk beginning near the visitor center, with only about 30 feet of elevation change. It features towering coast redwoods and interpretive information about the forest’s conservation history. The trail is described as wheelchair accessible; its physical condition can vary with weather and maintenance.

The park’s accessibility inventory separately identifies an accessible interpretive route of about 0.75 mile, as well as accessible portions of the Meadow and River trails. These different descriptions reflect route and measurement definitions; visitors who rely on mobility equipment should consult the detailed accessibility page or park staff before setting out.

Where visitors should arrive

The day-use entrance is located at 101 North Big Trees Park Road, Felton, CA 95018. The official park site lists the day-use kiosk at 831-335-4598 and the visitor center at 831-335-7077. The campground is at a separate address on Graham Hill Road, which can confuse drivers using a general park-name search.

A regular car day-use fee is listed at $10, with a published discount for seniors 62 and older. Fees and facility schedules may change. If you are meeting someone, agree in advance whether the meeting point is the main entrance, visitor center or campground.

Dogs are not allowed on the Grove Loop

The state park rules state that leashed dogs are permitted in specified areas such as picnic areas and on certain roads and trails, including Meadow Trail and Pipeline Road. Dogs are not permitted on the old-growth Redwood Grove Loop Trail. The Fall Creek Unit has a separate prohibition on dogs and bicycles. A pet-friendly picnic site does not mean every forest trail is pet-friendly.

Use the official trail map and verify the exact route rather than relying on an app.
Check whether short-term works affect Pipeline Road or other park routes.
Stay on marked paths and protect sensitive redwood roots.
Carry water and weather-appropriate layers.
Call the visitor center if accessibility equipment or special assistance is needed.

Sources: California State Parks — Henry Cowell Hiking; Park Visitor Information; Accessibility Inventory.

Related local news: Pipeline Road temporary access advisory. Return to Felton News.

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